Air Fryer Chicken Tikka Recipe

About Air Fryer Chicken Tikka:

Air Fryer Chicken Tikka is a modern twist on a traditional Pakistani chicken tikka recipe. The air fryer method reduces the need for excessive oil, resulting in a healthier version without compromising on taste. Marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, the chicken pieces are cooked until juicy and slightly charred, offering an authentic tikka experience.

Why You Love This Air Fryer Chicken Tikka Recipe:

Healthier Option: Uses less oil compared to traditional methods.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.

Bursting with Flavor: Perfect blend of spices for an authentic taste.When using a lot of yogurt in an air fryer, it often cakes as it cooks. However, this won’t be an issue with this air fryer chicken tikka recipe.

Versatile: Can be served as a main dish, appetizer, or in wraps and salads.

Expert Tips:

1. For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. Ensures even cooking and better texture.

3. Placing a large amount of chicken tikka directly into the basket would require cooking in several batches to avoid overcrowding.Prepare the chicken tikka by skewering the pieces onto wooden skewers. This allows for cooking more chicken tikka at once and enhances the presentation when served.

4. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

FAQs:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and remain juicy after cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

What is the difference between chicken tikka and tandoori chicken?

Chicken Tikka uses boneless chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked on skewers, and served as an appetizer. Tandoori Chicken uses whole or bone-in pieces marinated similarly but is usually served as a main course. The main differences are the cut of chicken and the typical serving style.

Which is healthier, tandoori chicken or chicken tikka?

Chicken Tikka is typically healthier due to its use of boneless, skinless chicken pieces which have lower fat content. However, both Tandoori Chicken and Chicken Tikka are healthy options as they are marinated in yogurt and spices and cooked without frying. The overall healthiness depends on the specific preparation and portion sizes.

Can I put raw chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, you can put raw chicken in the air fryer. Ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. You can season or marinate the chicken before cooking, and preheating the air fryer can help achieve a crispy texture. Cooking times will vary based on the size and cut of the chicken, so it’s important to check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

More related recipes:

Air fryer chicken nuggets

Air fryer baked chicken wings

Chicken Karahi

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Healthy

Air Fryer Chicken Tikka Recipe

Cooking Method: Air frying, Baking, Grilling Cuisine: Asian, Pakistani Courses: Dinner, Lunch, side dish Recipe Keys: Gluten Free High Protein Keto Quick Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 7 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 2 hrs Total Time 2 hrs 37 mins

Cooking Temp: 190  °C

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Discover the magic of Air Fryer Chicken Tikka—a perfect blend of spices and tender chicken, cooked to perfection in the air fryer. This recipe is quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 lb/ 450g boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite sized pieces)

• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 1 tablespoon minced ginger

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon Chat Masala

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon turmeric

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

• ¹⁄₂ tsp Salt (adjust as per taste)

• ¹⁄₂ tsp tikka masala (optional)

• Fresh cilantro and onion rings for garnish

• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions for air fryer chicken tikka:

1. Marinate chicken:

   In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, chaat masala, paprika, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt and a pinch of yellow food colour (optional)Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat.

   

   Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

   

2. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

   Prepare skewers with marinated chicken and place them in the air fryer, avoiding overcrowding.

   

   Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
   

4. Serve:

   Garnish with coriander and onion rings nd lemon wedges.

   Serve hot with naan, mint and tamarind chutney, and raita, or make chicken tikka paratha rolls.

   

Nutrition Facts

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 250kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 10g16%

Saturated Fat 2g10%

Sodium 400mg17%

Total Carbohydrate 5g2%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 3g

Protein 30g60%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Serving Suggestions: Pair with naan, rice, or a fresh salad.
• Adjusting Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.

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