Indian cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, and one of the most popular dishes is chicken tikka. Traditionally, chicken tikka is marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, and then grilled to perfection. However, with the convenience of an air fryer, you can now enjoy this classic Indian dish without even having to fire up the grill.
What’s great about air frying is that it creates a delicious crispy exterior on the chicken, while still keeping it juicy and tender on the inside. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, which not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat. The yogurt also helps to keep the chicken moist during the cooking process, making it a foolproof way to ensure that your chicken turns out perfectly every time.
These air fried chicken tikka skewers are not only easy to make but also a healthier alternative to traditional grilled chicken tikka, as they require less oil. Plus, by cooking the chicken in the air fryer, you can enjoy this classic Indian dish year-round, even when the weather outside isn’t suitable for grilling.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger paste, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and salt until well combined.
- Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to develop.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
- Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning).
- Place the skewers in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy!
- *Ensure all food is cooked thoroughly prior to serving