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 the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with every bite. With tender, spiced chicken pieces encased in a cool, creamy marinade, this dish embodies the essence of Indian cuisine. It’s a fiesta of flavors that doesn’t seem too overwhelming even for a weeknight dinner. Picture that comforting fragrance of spices mingling with succulent chicken wafting through your kitchen, and you’re halfway there.

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
Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

I still remember the first time I made Chicken Tikka at home. The allure of authentic Indian flavors coupled with the convenience of cooking in an air fryer hooked me instantly. Unlike the heavier, oil-drenched versions you might find at restaurants, this Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer) delivers a healthier, lighter take that retains all the great taste you love without skimping on flavor. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. I can’t wait for you to try this!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prepping this dish takes only about 10 minutes, with 24 minutes of cooking time—fast enough for a busy weeknight meal!
Irresistible Flavor: The marinade packs a punch! With spices like garam masala and smoked paprika, each piece bursts with aromatic goodness.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant red color of the spiced chicken makes it a stunner on any dinner table.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it with a side of rice, wrap it in naan, or serve it as a finger food at parties.
Diet-Friendly Options: This chicken tikka is low-carb and can be made gluten-free by checking your yogurt and spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5 lbs boneless chicken: Chicken thighs or breasts work well; thighs add a bit more moisture and flavor.
1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Acts as the base for the marinade, giving the chicken tenderness and tang.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: This adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat; fresh juice is always best!
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: A must-have for authentic flavor; if unavailable, fresh grated ginger and garlic work, too.
1 teaspoon turmeric: Not only provides color but also brings an earthy flavor.
1.5 teaspoons ground cumin: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall spice profile.
2 teaspoons ground coriander: Offers a citrusy note that brightens the dish.
1.5 teaspoons garam masala: A signature Indian spice blend; it elevates the dish with its complex flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder: Prefer smoky? Go for smoked paprika; for heat, use Kashmiri chili powder.
Salt to taste: Balances out the flavors in the marinade.
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or avocado): Helps to achieve a crispy, appealing texture in the air fryer.

How to Make Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer)

Cut Chicken: Begin by cutting the boneless chicken into 1.5-inch pieces. This size is essential for even cooking and delicious bites!

Prepare Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine 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, and salt to taste. Mix well until you have a smooth marinade.

Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can—this allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken.

Preheat Air Fryer: While the chicken marinates, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy outer layer.

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

Cook Chicken: Cook the chicken for about 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning and crispiness. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden, and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.

Rest and Serve: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender. Serve it up with your favorite chutney, fragrant rice, or wrapped in warm naan for a delightful meal.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Chicken Tikka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Keep in mind that reheating may alter the texture slightly, but adding a splash of water or a bit of extra oil can refresh its juiciness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to over-marinate the chicken, or it might turn mushy.
Let your ingredients, particularly the yogurt, come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a better emulsion in the marinade.
For maximum flavor, marinate overnight when you have the time.
If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce the amount of Kashmiri chili powder or paprika.
Want to make it a complete meal? Serve alongside some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Every time I make this Chicken Tikka, it gathers rave reviews from family and friends alike. The flavors are bold yet comforting, making it one of those meals that feels special, even on a casual Tuesday. Get creative with serving it; perhaps a side of cucumber raita or some naan right from the oven.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other proteins for this recipe?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with shrimp, tofu, or even those veggie skewers if you’re looking for a meat-free option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make Chicken Tikka spicier?

If you like a kick, increase the amount of smoked paprika or add in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. For additional heat, serve with a spicy chutney on the side.

What should I serve with Chicken Tikka?

This dish is versatile! Pair it with basmati rice, naan, or use it as a filling for wraps. Adding a side of yogurt dips or healthy salad can complement the dish beautifully.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just store the marinated chicken in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. It’s an excellent time-saver when planning your meals!

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