Looking for a super flavorful and easy-to-make chicken dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues? This Tandoori Chicken Skewers recipe delivers big, bold global flavors that are incredibly delicious.
One of the best things about cooking with chicken is its versatility and ability to absorb flavors. It’s my go-to protein when I crave dishes with rich, global tastes.
From Instant Pot Moroccan Chicken to my Filipino Chicken Adobo recipe, chicken effortlessly soaks up any spices and flavors you add. This makes it the ideal choice for creating satisfying tandoori-infused meals.
These Tandoori Chicken Skewers are a fantastic addition to any barbecue. They cook quickly, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time and grilling for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
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Why You’ll Love This Tandoori Chicken Skewers Recipe
This tandoori chicken skewers recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your barbecue repertoire! Here’s why:
- Incredibly Flavorful: The chicken is marinated in a yogurt-based sauce packed with classic tandoori spices, ensuring a rich and authentic taste.
- Quick and Easy: After marinating, simply thread the chicken onto skewers and grill for a few minutes. It’s that simple!
- Versatile Meal: Serve these skewers over rice for a quick weeknight dinner, or pair them with a variety of side dishes at your next barbecue.
- Perfect for a Crowd: Easily double or triple the recipe to serve a larger group at your next Memorial Day, 4th of July, Father’s Day, Graduation, or Labor Day barbecue. It’s ideal for any spring or summer gathering.
Ingredient Notes for Perfect Tandoori Chicken Skewers
You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. Here are a few quick notes to help you create the most flavorful dish:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are your best bet for juicy, tender, and flavorful results. However, chicken breast can be used as an alternative if you prefer.
- Aromatics: I use minced garlic and finely grated ginger (almost a paste) as a flavorful base. Minced ginger works well, but ground ginger can also be used as a substitute. Don’t skimp on the garlic – it significantly enhances the flavor!
- Spices: This recipe uses a blend of turmeric, paprika, cumin, and a touch of cayenne pepper. The cayenne adds a subtle warmth, rather than intense heat.
- Yogurt: Greek yogurt binds the flavors together and adds a classic touch of tang. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free yogurt.
- Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. Cilantro is a great alternative.
How to Make Tandoori Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Detailed instructions are available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post. Here are step-by-step photos with a quick overview to illustrate how simple it is to make this recipe!
Begin by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Pat dry with paper towels before using.
Prepare the marinade. Add the chicken pieces, coat thoroughly, and refrigerate.
Thread the chilled and marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers.
Brush a grill or grill pan with olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken skewers for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, flipping halfway through.
HOW TO TELL WHEN CHICKEN IS COOKED: Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking that an internal thermometer reaches 165°F (74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions About Tandoori Chicken Skewers
Can I use chicken breasts for Tandoori Chicken Skewers?
Yes, absolutely! While I recommend chicken thighs for their juiciness, tenderness, and rich flavor, you can certainly substitute an equal amount of chicken breasts if you prefer.
Are Tandoori Chicken Skewers best served hot or cold?
These skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Beyond this, refrigerate them to prevent spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Tandoori Chicken Skewers?
Wrap leftover skewers tightly in aluminum foil or remove the chicken from the skewers and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions for Tandoori Chicken Skewers
Tandoori chicken skewers pair wonderfully with almost any side dish you’d typically serve at a barbecue or outdoor dinner. Try them with our Charred Corn Salad, Cucumber Mint Salad, or Curry Samosas.
Wine and Cocktail Pairings for Tandoori Chicken Skewers
The rich, bold flavors of tandoori chicken are beautifully complemented by a light-bodied, fruit-forward, low-tannin red wine like Pinot Noir. The bright red fruit notes in Pinot Noir enhance the smoky flavors of the chicken skewers.
If you prefer a cocktail, try pairing it with our Bourbon Lemonade. The bright acidity of the lemon balances the richness of the tandoori chicken, while the depth of flavor from the bourbon enhances the smokiness of the marinade.
Explore More Delicious Chicken Recipes
- Chicken Kare Kare
- Chicken au Poivre
- Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken Thighs
- Chicken Inasal
Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a 5-Star rating in the recipe card, and if you really loved it, please leave a comment further down on the page. Thank you!
Tandoori Chicken Skewers Recipe
Tandoori Chicken Skewers
Full of rich flavors, these chicken kebabs are delicious for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Marinade
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Tablespoon finely grated ginger
- 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon fresh squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon garam marsala
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Chicken and Garnishes
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1″ pieces
- chopped parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together all of the marinade ingredients.
- Add the chicken and gently toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, up to overnight.
- 30 minutes before you start cooking, soak wooden skewers in water.
- 15 minutes before you start cooking, remove the chicken from the refrigerator.
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium heat (350-450°F).
- Thread chicken pieces onto the skewers.
- Grills each skewer for approximately 12-15 minutes, turning them over halfway for even cooking.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
Makes enough for approximately 4-5 main course servings.
Chicken thighs bring the most flavor, but you can substitute chicken breast if you prefer.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.