Tandoori Chicken Skewers are juicy pieces of chicken marinated in yummy spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection. They have a smoky flavor that’s just delicious!
When I make these, I can’t help but eat them right off the grill – they smell so good! 😂 Serve them with some cool dip, and you’ve got a tasty treat everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are a great choice here. You could also use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breast works, but be careful not to overcook it!
Yogurt: I find plain yogurt gives the best tanginess and moisture. However, if you’re lactose intolerant, you can substitute with plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt. Just be mindful of the flavor profile.
Tandoori Masala: This spice blend adds the iconic flavor. If you can’t find it, mix garam masala with paprika and a bit of turmeric. Spice blends can differ; feel free to adjust based on your palate.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is best when it comes to these ingredients. Jarred options are convenient, but fresh garlic and ginger provide a stronger flavor. If unavailable, powdered versions work as a last resort.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Marinated?
Marinating the chicken is key to achieving that flavorful taste and tender texture. The yogurt acts as a tenderizer due to its acidity, so make sure every piece of chicken gets coated well. Here’s how to do it right:
- In a bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients until blended.
- After adding chicken, ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Don’t rush this part!
- Cover tightly and refrigerate. Overnight is best, but at least one hour will do.
Remember, the longer it marinates, the better the flavor! Try to plan ahead to make the most of this step.
How to Make Tandoori Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp tandoori masala (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt to taste
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour (or ideally overnight) for marinating the chicken. Once you’re ready to grill, it will take about 10-15 minutes to cook the skewers. In total, you’re looking at a fun and tasty cooking experience of around 1 hour and 30 minutes, with most of it being marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, tandoori masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until you have a nice, smooth marinade. This mix is where all the delicious flavors come from!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade. Use your hands or a spatula to make sure every piece is well coated with that tasty marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, letting it marinate overnight will make the flavors even better.
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes so they don’t catch fire on the grill.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out from the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little bit of space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get those nice grill marks.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure you turn them occasionally so that all sides get grilled and cooked through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a lovely char on the outside.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken skewers are off the grill, let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle in. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, lemon wedges, and maybe a mint yogurt dip or your favorite chutney on the side. Enjoy the fantastic flavor of your homemade Tandoori Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with firm tofu, shrimp, or even beef or lamb. Just make sure to adjust the marinating time; seafood may only need 30 minutes, while tofu could benefit from a longer marination time to soak up the flavors.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To ensure this recipe is gluten-free, double-check the tandoori masala and any other seasonings for gluten-containing ingredients. Generally, most spices are gluten-free, but it’s always best to read labels. You can also use gluten-free yogurt varieties.
What If I Don’t Have Tandoori Masala?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade version by combining equal parts of paprika, turmeric, ground coriander, ground cumin, and garam masala. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for heat. This will give you a similar flavor profile to traditional tandoori masala.
Can I Prepare the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it. After marinating your chicken, it’s best to cook it right away for the freshest taste, but you can also let the marinated chicken rest in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling.
