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Tandoori Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer, Grill, Oven & BBQ) Recipe

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4.3 from 15 reviews

This Tandoori Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and aromatic way to enjoy classic Indian spices combined with tender chicken breast pieces. Marinated in a yogurt and spice blend, the chicken can be cooked using various methods including air frying, baking, grilling, or barbecuing, to achieve juicy, charred, and perfectly cooked kebabs. Ideal for a quick yet delicious meal, this versatile recipe serves four and incorporates traditional tandoori flavors with a hint of heat and a vibrant red hue.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 650 g Chicken breast (Approx 4 breasts, diced)

Spices & Marinade

  • 1 tsp Ground coriander
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin
  • 2 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp Ground ginger
  • 1 tsp Garlic granules
  • 1/2 tsp Chilli powder (Optional)
  • 1.5 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
  • Red food colouring (See notes)
  • 1 Lemon (juice only)
  • 1 tbsp Tomato puree
  • 50 g Natural yoghurt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine ground coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, garlic granules, chili powder (if using), salt, black pepper, red food colouring, lemon juice, tomato puree, and natural yoghurt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly blended.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the marinade and thoroughly coat each piece. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to let the flavors infuse; marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for enhanced taste.
  3. Thread onto Skewers: Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces evenly onto skewers, preparing them for cooking.
  4. Cook in the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 220°C (400°F). Place the chicken skewers carefully into the air fryer basket, spray lightly with oil to promote browning, and air fry for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly using a meat thermometer.
  5. Cook in the Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C fan/200°C/350°F fan. Place skewers on a baking tray, preferably on a grill rack to allow even cooking. Lightly spray with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once to cook evenly. Check doneness with a thermometer.
  6. Cook on the BBQ: Place the chicken kebab skewers directly on the BBQ rack. Spray the tops with oil and barbecue over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway for even cooking. Ensure no pink remains inside.
  7. Cook on the Grill: Arrange skewers on a grill tray and cook under high heat for 15-20 minutes. Turn halfway to achieve uniform cooking and a slight char.

Notes

  • Red food colouring is optional and used to give the chicken its characteristic vibrant red color. You may omit it if preferred.
  • Always check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
  • Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient if short on time.
  • Use oil spray sparingly to prevent sticking and encourage even browning.
  • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use to prevent burning.