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Quick and Flavorful 30-Minute Chicken Tikka Recipe for Easy Dinner Ideas

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A quick and easy chicken tikka recipe that delivers bold, smoky, and spiced flavors in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (full-fat or Greek yogurt preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or freshly grated ginger and minced garlic)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to heat preference)
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (canola or sunflower oil recommended)
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Optional: Thinly sliced onions and bell peppers for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, garam masala, ground cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix well until smooth and fragrant.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes, up to 30 minutes for best flavor.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Add marinated chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes on one side until golden with charred spots.
  5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
  6. If using, add sliced onions and bell peppers during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking for added texture and sweetness.
  7. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve immediately.

Notes

Avoid over-marinating to prevent mushy chicken; 10 to 30 minutes is ideal. Use chicken thighs for juiciness and better marinade absorption. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing. Let chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices. Adjust chili powder to control heat level. For dairy-free, substitute yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tikka, quick chicken recipe, Indian chicken, easy dinner ideas, weeknight meals, smoky chicken, spicy chicken, yogurt marinade

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/quick-and-flavorful-30-minute-chicken-tikka-recipe-for-easy-dinner-ideas/