Chicken Tikka I

Chicken Tikka I Recipe from India: Delicious and Authentic

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 4 hours | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Chicken Tikka is a popular Indian dish made with marinated and grilled chicken. It is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a casual meal.

History

Chicken Tikka is said to have originated in the Indian subcontinent, specifically in the Punjab region. It is believed to have been created by chefs in the royal kitchens of the Mughal emperors. The dish was traditionally cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven, which gives it a unique smoky flavor.

Ingredients

0.75 tsp cumin seeds, toasted
0.75 tsp coriander seeds, toasted
2 cup whole-milk yogurt
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 (1.5 inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
3 tbsp vegetable oil plus additional for greasing pan
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1.5 tsp salt
0.75 tsp ground turmeric
0.5 tsp garam masala (Indian spice mixture)
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.25 tsp cayenne
5 lb (2.27 kg) skinless boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5 inch cubes
Special equipment: 20 (12 inches) wooden skewers
Accompaniments: mango and red pepper chutney and mint raita
Garnish: lime wedges

How to prepare

In a blender, purée all ingredients except Chicken until the spices are well ground.
Place the Chicken in a large bowl or divide it between 2 large sealable plastic bags. Add the yogurt mixture and stir or turn to coat the Chicken.
Cover and chill the marinated Chicken for at least 4 hours, turning occasionally if using bags.
Soak skewers in water for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, bring the Chicken to room temperature.
Preheat the broiler and lightly brush a broiler pan with oil.
Divide the Chicken among skewers, placing about 5 cubes per skewer. Leave a 0.13 inch space between the cubes. Arrange approximately 5 skewers across the pan.
Broil the Chicken about 4 inches from the heat, turning it over once, until it is browned in spots and just cooked through. This should take a total of 9 to 12 minutes.
Transfer the cooked skewers to a large platter and, if desired, cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm.
Broil the remaining Chicken in the same manner.
Remove the Chicken from the skewers and serve it warm or at room temperature.

Variations

You can use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless chicken breasts for a different texture.
Add vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the skewers for a more colorful and flavorful dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Soak the skewers in water before using them to prevent them from burning during cooking.

- Broil the chicken on high heat to get a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Tikka can be served with rice, naan bread, or a side salad. It is often accompanied by mint raita and lime wedges for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

- Broiling the chicken on high heat gives it a nice charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt instead of whole yogurt for a thicker marinade.

- Substitute lemon juice for lime juice if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

- Cooked Chicken Tikka can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Tikka on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a colorful presentation. - Arrange the skewers on a bed of lettuce or rice for an elegant look.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken Tikka pairs well with a light and refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy tomato chutney.

- Serve it with a side of basmati rice or garlic naan for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Chicken Tikka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the Chicken Tikka in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Tikka contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Tikka contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Tikka contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Tikka contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Tikka is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and phosphorus.

Alergens

Chicken Tikka contains dairy (yogurt) and may contain traces of nuts and gluten.

Summary

Chicken Tikka is a high-protein dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Chicken Tikka is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a casual meal. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chicken Tikka. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting a bustling market in India. The air was filled with the aroma of spices and flavors that made my mouth water. As I walked through the market, I stumbled upon a small street vendor who was grilling skewers of marinated chicken over an open flame.

The sight of the sizzling chicken tikka was mesmerizing. The vibrant red color of the marinade, the charred edges of the meat, and the tantalizing smell all combined to create a sensory experience that I could not resist. I approached the vendor and asked him about the recipe for his delicious creation.

He smiled and beckoned me closer. "Ah, chicken tikka," he said, his voice filled with pride. "It is a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

Without hesitation, I nodded eagerly. The vendor motioned for me to sit down on a small stool next to his grill. He began to explain the ingredients and the process of making chicken tikka. He spoke with such passion and enthusiasm that I couldn't help but be drawn in.

The marinade, he explained, was a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices that included cumin, coriander, and turmeric. He showed me how to coat the chicken pieces in the marinade and let them sit for hours to absorb the flavors.

As the chicken cooked on the grill, the vendor shared stories of his family and their love for cooking. He spoke of the joy they found in sharing meals together and the sense of satisfaction that came from creating something delicious from scratch.

After what seemed like an eternity, the chicken tikka was finally ready. The vendor handed me a skewer and watched eagerly as I took my first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – tangy, spicy, and smoky all at once. It was a taste unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

I savored every bite, relishing in the complexity of the flavors and the warmth of the spices. As I finished my meal, the vendor grinned at me. "Now you know the secret of chicken tikka," he said. "May it bring you as much joy as it has brought my family for generations."

I thanked the vendor profusely and left the market with a newfound sense of excitement. I couldn't wait to recreate the recipe at home and share it with my own family.

Over the years, I have made chicken tikka countless times, each attempt a tribute to that hot summer day in India. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own twist to the marinade or experimenting with different cooking methods. But no matter how many times I make it, the dish always brings back memories of that magical day.

My family has come to love chicken tikka just as much as I do. It has become a staple at our gatherings, a dish that never fails to please. And every time I take a bite, I am transported back to that bustling market, the scent of spices in the air, and the taste of the vendor's delicious creation on my lips.

Chicken tikka may just be a recipe, but to me, it is so much more. It is a reminder of the joy of discovery, the bond of family, and the magic of sharing a meal with loved ones. And for that, I will always be grateful.