Go Back
grilled and broiled boneless chicken breasts
Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes

The Best Grilled Chicken Tikka (Tandoori Chicken)

This Grilled Chicken Tikka (Tandoori Chicken) introduces the best mouthwatering flavor-infused Indian bite!
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: chicken tikka, grilled chicken, grilled chicken tikka, Tandoori chicken
Servings: 8 Servings
Author: Lama

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast cut in half
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 5 tbsp. plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp. salt
  • ½ lemon juice
  • ½ tsp. coriander
  • ½ tsp. cumin
  • ½ tsp. sumac
  • 1 tbsp. paprika
  • 1½ tbsp. garlic powder
  • 3 garlic minced
  • 1½ tbsp. Tandoori masala spice
  • 1 tsp. Cheyenne pepper optional

Instructions

  • Cut the chicken horizontally and vertically, but not all the way through the chicken.
  • In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, coriander, cumin, sumac, paprika, garlic powder, minced garlic, tandoori masala spice, Cheyenne pepper, and salt
  • Pour over the chicken and rub all over and inside all the indents. Marinate for 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
  • Grill or place on the middle rack in the oven and broil on high heat for about 13-15 minutes on each side,

Notes

Tips for Restaurant-Style Tandoori Chicken
  1. Pour a few drops of Mustard oil, and Gram flour (besan) in your chicken marinade. These ones are found in most Indian dishes and adds a slightly smoky taste that you will definitely appreciate.
  2. Keep in mind that this dish is best prepared beforehand. The more you soak in the chicken in the marinade, the more flavors you'll enjoy within each bite.
  3. Although chicken breasts work well in this recipe, I would prefer if you use boneless chicken thighs because the result is moist and mouthwatering.