Name: Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts); 1 cup plain greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1.5 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or kashmiri chili powder; salt to taste; 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado)

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When it comes to flavorful cuisine, few dishes match the vibrant taste and aroma of Chicken Tikka. The beauty of this beloved Indian dish lies in its marinated chicken, infused with a medley of spices and yogurt, delivering a taste sensation that dances on the palate. The twist here is we’re turning to the air fryer, making this version of Chicken Tikka lighter, quicker, and just as delightful without compromising on flavor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

I first discovered Chicken Tikka during a chilly evening gathering with friends, where the tantalizing scent wafted through the air, making everyone’s mouths water. Now, with the support of my air fryer, I can replicate that same warmth and taste in my kitchen without the hassle of traditional grilling. Plus, it’s just so easy! You’ll be amazed at how straightforward this recipe is — perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Tikka is a breeze to whip up in just about 34 minutes total (10 minutes prep and 24 minutes cook).
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with aromatic spices and the creamy tang from yogurt, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors from the spices and marinade make this dish stunning on any table.
Flexible Serving: Serve it as a main course, a fun appetizer for parties, or toss it into wraps for a quick lunch.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally low carb and can be adapted to be gluten-free or dairy-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts): Choose thighs for juicier bites or breasts for a leaner option. Both work beautifully!
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: This forms the creamy base of the marinade, tenderizing the chicken and adding tang. Greek yogurt is preferred for its thickness; can substitute with regular yogurt if needed.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the marinade and adds a lovely zing to the flavor.
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: A staple in Indian cooking, it provides a potent and aromatic base. You can use fresh minced ginger and garlic in equal amounts if not available.
1 teaspoon turmeric: It adds beautiful color and an earthy flavor. Don’t skip this spice!
1.5 teaspoons ground cumin: This adds warmth and depth to the combination; feel free to substitute with coriander for a different twist.
2 teaspoons ground coriander: It complements the other spices beautifully, though substituting it with more cumin is acceptable.
1.5 teaspoons garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that showcases the essence of Indian cuisine; try different blends for varied flavors.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder: For a hint of smokiness and color; either option will work wonders.
Salt to taste: Essential to enhance all the flavors; go easy at first, you can always add more.
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado): This helps with browning during air frying and keeps the chicken moist; olive oil can also be a great choice.

How to Make Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

Cut Chicken: Begin by cutting your 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken into bite-sized 1.5-inch pieces. This size ensures quick and even cooking, allowing the marinade to cling beautifully.

Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste, and all the spices: 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin, 2 teaspoons ground coriander, 1.5 teaspoons garam masala, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder, and salt to taste. Mix everything until it resembles a creamy marinade, and breathe in that intoxicating aroma.

Marinate Chicken: Add the pieces of chicken to the bowl and ensure they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Pop the bowl into the refrigerator and let them marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can manage waiting! This step is critical in developing deep flavors.

Preheat Air Fryer: Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. This step is essential for achieving that crispy exterior in the final product.

Arrange Chicken: Once preheated, arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket—allow enough space for air circulation to ensure even cooking.

Cook Chicken: Cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through for uniform cooking. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Rest Before Serving: After removing the chicken, let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Serve it with some tangy chutney or a side of fluffy rice to soak up all those delicious flavors!

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Chicken Tikka can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you’re keeping it longer, transfer the chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked Chicken Tikka for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes. Note that reheating may slightly alter the texture, so you can add a splash of water for moisture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be sure to let your chicken marinate long enough to soak in those flavors—overnight is ideal if you have the time.
Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking to help it cook evenly.
To enhance smokiness, consider placing the cooked chicken under the broiler for a minute after air frying.
If you’re unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Experiment with different spices to discover a blend that excites your palate.

This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Tikka is an invitation to explore a gorgeous fusion of flavors that’s both comforting and exotic. With its crispy edges and tender, juicy chicken, it’s bound to be a staple dish in your home. So why not gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try? You just might fall in love with it like I did!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other meats for Chicken Tikka?

Absolutely! While chicken is the traditional choice, you can adapt this recipe for shrimp, tofu, or even paneer for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly since shrimp cooks much quicker than chicken, while paneer should be treated similarly.

How do I make Chicken Tikka spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, you can easily amp up the spices. Add more smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder. Alternatively, consider including finely chopped green chili peppers in the marinade for an extra kick!

What dishes pair well with Chicken Tikka?

Chicken Tikka complements many dishes such as naan, basmati rice, or a fresh salad. For a more complete meal, serve it with raita (yogurt sauce) or a vibrant mint chutney that balances out the spices.

Can I make this Chicken Tikka ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, simply preheat your air fryer and cook, enabling you to enjoy quick and flavorful meals with minimal effort!

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