Vegetarian Tikka Chicken
Savor the bold and vibrant flavors of Vegetarian Tikka Chicken, a delightful plant-based take on the classic Indian dish. Made with tender cubes of extra-firm tofu or creamy paneer, marinated in a luscious mix of yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for a vegan option), fresh lemon juice, and a fragrant blend of spices like garam masala, turmeric, and paprika, this recipe delivers a deliciously smoky and charred tikka experience. Paired with colorful chunks of bell peppers and onions, these skewers can be grilled, broiled, or baked to perfection, making them versatile for any cooking method. A sprinkle of chaat masala and fresh cilantro elevates the flavors, while serving suggestions like mint chutney, naan, or basmati rice complete the meal. This quick and easy recipe, ready in just 45 minutes, is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a show-stopping appetizer for gatherings. Indulge in the irresistible taste of vegetarian tikka chicken and bring the essence of Indian cuisine to your table!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 grams Extra-firm tofu or paneer
- 120 ml Yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Garam masala
- 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1.5 teaspoons Paprika powder (or Kashmiri red chili powder for mild heat)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Cooking oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
- 2 Bell peppers (colorful mix: red, yellow, green), diced into large chunks
- 1 Red onion, diced into large chunks
- 8 Wooden or metal skewers (optional, for grilling or broiling)
- 0.5 teaspoon Chaat masala (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Press the tofu for 15-20 minutes to remove excess water (skip this step if using paneer). Cut the tofu or paneer into 1-inch cubes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix well into a thick marinade.
Add the tofu or paneer cubes to the marinade and gently coat them completely. Cover and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavors).
While the tofu or paneer is marinating, chop the bell peppers and red onion into large, even-sized chunks.
Thread the marinated tofu or paneer, bell peppers, and red onion onto skewers, alternating for a colorful presentation (optional if not grilling).
Heat a grill pan, outdoor grill, or oven to broil. Brush the skewers or paneer mixture with cooking oil for a golden finish.
Cook the skewers on medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, until the tofu/paneer is lightly charred and the vegetables are tender. Alternatively, bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Transfer the tikka skewers or mixture to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chaat masala and garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor (optional).
Serve hot with mint chutney, naan, or rice, and enjoy your delicious vegetarian tikka chicken!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1074 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 65.6 g | 84% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.7 g | 43% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 8 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 2579 mg | 112% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 54.1 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.5 g | 41% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.6 g | ||
| Protein | 73.0 g | 146% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.6 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 3001 mg | 231% | |
| Iron | 16.8 mg | 93% | |
| Potassium | 2021 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
