Chicken Tikka

Name: Chicken Tikka
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Pakistani
Ingredients: 800 g chicken tikka pieces; 150 g yogurt; 2 tbsp tikka masala; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp mustard oil; to taste fine sea salt

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 chicken

Chicken Tikka hails from the bustling barbecue stalls of Pakistan, where it is a staple at street-side feasts and festive gatherings. This home version captures the essence of those vibrant flavors, a recipe passed down through generations, tweaked by the practiced hands of family cooks. Here, salt is measured by instinct, and the richness of fat is embraced, bringing the communal spirit of those lively stalls to your dining table.

Expect each bite to deliver a succulent burst of flavor, where the tang of yogurt and lemon intertwines seamlessly with the warmth of tikka masala. Mustard oil imparts a subtle, earthy undertone, ensuring that the chicken is both tender and robustly spiced. This dish invites sharing, reflecting the communal joy of a meal cooked with care and tradition.

Ingredients

800 gchicken tikka pieces
150 gyogurt
2 tbsptikka masala
1 tbsplemon juice
1 tbspmustard oil
to tastefine sea salt

Method

Begin by preparing the marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine 150 g yogurt, 2 tbsp tikka masala, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tbsp mustard oil. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth, consistent paste. This mixture will serve as the flavorful base for your chicken.
Add the 800 g chicken tikka pieces to the marinade. Use your hands to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. This step is crucial as it ensures the chicken absorbs all the flavors. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps the chicken cook more evenly. Meanwhile, preheat your grill or oven to a high temperature, around 220°C (428°F), if using an oven.
If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill or a baking tray if using an oven. Ensure they are spaced out to allow even cooking. Begin cooking the chicken, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are evenly charred and cooked through.
Cook the chicken until it develops a deep, rich color with slightly charred edges. The chicken should be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside. If using an oven, this might take about 20-25 minutes, but always check for doneness by cutting into the thickest piece to ensure it's cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven. Immediately sprinkle fine sea salt to taste over the hot chicken pieces. This step enhances the flavors and gives the chicken a final touch of seasoning.
Serve the Chicken Tikka immediately while it's hot. Arrange the pieces on a platter and garnish with lemon wedges if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, with naan or rice, and shared with family and friends.