Pakistani chicken 🐔 tikka

Sure, here's a step-by-step recipe for making Pakistani Chicken Tikka:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tikka:
- 1 kg boneless chicken pieces, cut into chunks
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for color, optional)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil

For the Marinade:
1. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, paprika (if using), salt, and oil. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

2. Add the chicken chunks to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Make sure each piece is well coated. You can use your hands or a spatula to mix.

3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and make it tender.

For Cooking:
1. Preheat your grill or oven to high heat. If using an oven, set it to the broil/grill function.

2. If you're using skewers, thread the marinated chicken chunks onto them, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps the chicken cook evenly.

3. Place the skewers or chicken pieces on the grill grates or on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil. Make sure to leave some space between the pieces.

4. Cook the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a charred, slightly crispy exterior. You can baste the chicken with a little oil or melted butter while grilling for added flavor and moisture.

5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

6. Serve the Chicken Tikka hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and onion rings. You can also squeeze some lemon juice over the tikka for an extra burst of flavor.

7. Chicken Tikka is often served with naan bread, mint chutney, and sliced onions. Enjoy your delicious Pakistani Chicken Tikka!

Remember that cooking times may vary based on the type of grill or oven you're using, so keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn't overcook or burn.