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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Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Tikka is a delightful twist on the classic Indian dish that marries tender, marinated chicken with the convenience of modern cooking. The air fryer elevates this dish by giving it a satisfying charred texture while keeping it juicy and packed with flavor. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients that create an irresistible aroma and mouthwatering taste, turning your kitchen into a fragrant haven that will have everyone eager to join you at the dinner table.

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 stumbled upon Chicken Tikka years ago during a family gathering, and I was mesmerized by the burst of spices, the vibrant colors, and the tender meat that made its way to my plate. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to create a version that fits my busy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Enter the air fryer! This method offers an amazing way to achieve that classic Indian chicken recipe without the added oil and long cooking times. So, let’s whip up some juicy, flavorful chicken tikka and bring a little piece of India to your dining table. You’ll be amazed at how simple and scrumptious this dish is—let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 10 minutes of prep and 24 minutes of cooking time, you can whip this up on a busy weeknight!
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is bursting with aromatic spices, thanks to the combination of yogurt and herbs that create a luscious marinade.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The bright hues of the spices turn your chicken into a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for gatherings.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a main dish, in wraps, or as a tasty appetizer; it fits any occasion!
Diet-Friendly Options: This is a low-carb delight that suits various diets without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts): Tender chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness; breasts are a great option for a leaner choice.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: This thick yogurt provides creaminess and helps the spices cling to the chicken while tenderizing it. You can also use dairy-free yogurt if needed.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity that balances the rich spices. Substitute with lime juice for a different twist.
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: Essential for flavor, you can easily make this at home with equal parts fresh ginger and garlic blended together.
1 teaspoon turmeric: This spice offers a warm color and mild, earthy flavor; it’s also known for its health benefits.
1.5 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds a nutty, warm aroma; you can swap it with coriander if you’re out.
2 teaspoons ground coriander: Contributes a citrusy finish; feel free to replace this with additional cumin if desired.
1.5 teaspoons garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that elevates the dish; you can find different mixes of garam masala for varied flavor profiles.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder: Both provide smokiness and a lovely color; smoked paprika lends a slightly sweet touch.
Salt to taste: Simply enhances all the flavors, so adjust according to preference.
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado): A little oil is used before air frying to help achieve that crispy exterior; avoid excess oil for a healthier dish.

How to Make Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

Cut Chicken: Start by cutting 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken into 1.5-inch pieces. This size ensures even cooking and allows plenty of surface area for the flavors to cling.

Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste, and all the spices: 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin, 2 teaspoons ground coriander, 1.5 teaspoons garam masala, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder. Stir well until everything is well blended.

Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. This step helps infuse all those beautiful spices into the meat. Cover it and let it marinate in the fridge for a minimum of 2 hours, or ideally overnight for the best flavor.

Preheat Air Fryer: Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Every air fryer is slightly different, so preheating helps to match the cooking time listed.

Arrange Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking and that perfect crispiness.

Cook Chicken: Air fry the chicken for 12-14 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. Look for a golden-brown exterior and juicy insides when they are done.

Rest Before Serving: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with your choice of chutney or fluffy rice to complete the meal.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover chicken tikka can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours, then move it to the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop it into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. While reheating might slightly alter the texture, a light pat of oil will help refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for the best crispiness. Cook in batches if needed.
Ensure your chicken is evenly cut for uniform cooking. Using thighs ensures tender results.
Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Overnight marination is ideal when time allows.
If your chicken feels tough, it may have been overcooked; aim for a juicy texture every time.
Experiment with your spice ratios; everyone’s palate is different!

This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Tikka is a fantastic dish that rushes flavor and convenience right into your home. The marinated chicken emerges crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it perfect for dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy making it your own by trying various sides and dips. Take it upon yourself to experiment with spices and side dishes; the opportunities are endless! Can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw the chicken completely and pat it dry before marinating. Frozen chicken may require a slightly longer cooking time.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka?

Chicken Tikka pairs wonderfully with naan, basmati rice, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with mint chutney for a refreshing zing.

Can I make Chicken Tikka ahead of time?

Definitely! The marinade can be prepared in advance, and the chicken can be marinated overnight in the refrigerator. Additionally, cooked chicken can be made a day ahead and reheated as needed.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with cubed paneer or cauliflower for a tasty vegetarian alternative. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while air frying.