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: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try It

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)

When it comes to Indian cuisine, Chicken Tikka stands out not just for its vibrant flavor but also for its inviting aroma and beautiful color. This dish features tender, marinated chicken pieces that get perfectly cooked, delivering a burst of spices with each bite. Using an air fryer makes this particular recipe a breeze, cutting out the fuss of traditional grilling without sacrificing any of that traditional flavor we all love.

I first discovered Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer) during a lazy weekend when I craved something flavorful yet simple. Throwing together spices and yogurt for the marinade felt like a cozy embrace, and watching it transform into a mouthwatering feast in my air fryer was pure magic. This dish isn’t just for special occasions; it’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that will impress anyone at your table. If you’re on the fence about trying it, just know that this recipe is crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly, and absolutely delightful. I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 34 minutes from start to finish!
Irresistible Flavor: Juicy chicken pieces infused with rich spices and yogurt, creating an explosion of taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Glorious golden-brown color that makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
Flexible Serving: Perfect as a main course, snack, or appetizer for gatherings and parties.
Diet-Friendly Options: A healthy twist on traditional chicken tikka, ideal for low-carb or keto diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts): Tender cuts ensure juicy results. Thighs are incredibly flavorful, while breasts provide a leaner option.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The base of our marinade, adding creaminess and tenderness. You can substitute it with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken. Freshly squeezed is best!
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: This mixture enhances the depth of flavor. You can easily make your own by blending fresh ginger and garlic.
1 teaspoon turmeric: For a beautiful color and earthy flavor.
1.5 teaspoons ground cumin: Offers a warm, nutty background note.
2 teaspoons ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, herbal flavor that complements the spices.
1.5 teaspoons garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that elevates the dish.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder: Provides a smoky detail and subtle heat.
Salt to taste: Enhances the overall flavor; remember to adjust according to your preference.
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado): Helps to achieve that delicious crispiness in the air fryer.

How to Make Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

Cut Chicken: Start by slicing the 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken into 1.5-inch pieces. This size ensures even cooking and perfect bite-sized servings.

Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste. Stir in your 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, along with salt to taste. Combine until smooth.

Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. For the best flavor, marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, or overnight if you can. This step really infuses the meat with those wonderful spices.

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This will prepare it for a perfect cook right from the start.

Arrange Chicken: Once marinated, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.

Cook Chicken: Cook the chicken for 12–14 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure it browns evenly on both sides. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color to indicate doneness.

Let Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite juicy and tender.

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a few hours, but I recommend refrigerating it for up to 3 days for the best flavor and texture. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s heated through. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but a quick spin in the air fryer will refresh it beautifully.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; this ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
If you’re marinating overnight, add a touch more yogurt for extra moisture.
Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Serve your Chicken Tikka with mint chutney or fresh cucumber salad for added dimension and freshness.
Make a little extra marinade to use as a dipping sauce—trust me, you’ll want that flavor!

This Chicken Tikka is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. It’s an easy way to spice up your dinner routine while impressing family and friends alike. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish will create a memorable moment at your table.

Feel free to experiment with different spice levels; if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne for extra kick. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creations!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken with skin for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken with skin if you prefer a richer flavor, but keep in mind it may increase the fat content. The skin can create extra crispiness in the air fryer.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure your chicken is done is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C).

What can I serve with Chicken Tikka?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with yogurt sauce or chutney for added flavor.

Can I marinate the chicken for longer?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight can intensify the flavors and tenderness of the chicken, making it even more delicious. Just ensure it’s stored in the refrigerator while marinating.

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