Paneer Tikka: A Flavorful Indian Appetizer You’ll Love

Paneer Tikka is a classic Indian appetizer that’s bursting with smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors. Made with marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and vegetables, this dish is grilled to perfection and served with a side of mint chutney. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a quick snack, Paneer Tikka is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make at home. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why This Paneer Tikka Recipe Works

This Paneer Tikka recipe is a winner because it’s quick, customizable, and packed with flavor. The marinade, made with yogurt and a blend of spices, ensures the paneer and veggies are tender and flavorful. Plus, you can grill, bake, or even air-fry this dish, making it versatile for any kitchen setup.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can recreate the authentic taste of restaurant-style Paneer Tikka at home. It’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies for a balanced meal!

What’s In Paneer Tikka?

The magic of Paneer Tikka lies in its marinade and the perfect balance of spices. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Paneer: Firm Indian cottage cheese that holds its shape when grilled.
• Yogurt: Acts as a tenderizer and base for the marinade.
• Spices: A blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder adds depth and heat.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes add color and texture.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy kick to the marinade.
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: Enhances the flavor with its aromatic punch.

How To Make Paneer Tikka

This Paneer Tikka recipe is simple and requires minimal prep. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and salt.
2. Mix well until the marinade is smooth and well-combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Paneer and Veggies

1. Cut the paneer, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes into bite-sized cubes.
2. Add the paneer and veggies to the marinade and mix until evenly coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Skewer and Cook

1. Preheat your grill, oven, or air fryer to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated paneer and veggies onto skewers.
3. Grill or bake for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is golden and slightly charred.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with chaat masala and garnish with fresh cilantro.
2. Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.

Sides for Paneer Tikka

Pair your Paneer Tikka with these delicious sides:

• Mint Chutney: A refreshing dip that complements the smoky flavors.
• Onion Rings: Thinly sliced onions with a squeeze of lemon for a tangy crunch.
• Naan or Roti: Soft Indian bread to scoop up the paneer and veggies.
• Green Salad: A simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I Use Tofu Instead of Paneer?

Yes! Tofu is a great substitute for paneer if you’re looking for a vegan option. Just make sure to use firm tofu and press it to remove excess moisture before marinating.

How Do I Store Leftover Paneer Tikka?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I Make Paneer Tikka Without a Grill?

Absolutely! You can bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Other Recipes To Try

• Chicken Tikka: A spiced and grilled chicken appetizer with a similar marinade.
• Vegetable Pakora: Crispy fritters made with spiced chickpea batter.
• Malai Kofta: Soft paneer and potato dumplings in a creamy tomato sauce.
• Bhindi Masala: A flavorful okra stir-fry with Indian spices.
• Masala Corn Chaat: A tangy and spicy street food made with corn and spices.

Delicious Easy Paneer Tikka Skewers

This Paneer Tikka recipe is a smoky, spicy, and tangy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Marinated paneer and veggies are grilled to perfection and served with mint chutney for a burst of flavor in every bite!

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Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Paneer

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 220kcal

Equipment

Chef's Knife

Chopping Board

Heatproof Bowl

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 250 g paneer cut into cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt to taste

For the Skewers:

• 1 bell pepper cut into cubes
• 1 onion cut into cubes
• 1 tomato cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp oil for brushing
• Chaat masala and cilantro for garnish

Instructions

• Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and salt.
• Marinate: Add paneer and veggies to the marinade. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• Skewer: Thread marinated paneer and veggies onto skewers.
• Cook: Grill, bake, or air-fry for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and slightly charred.
• Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chaat masala and cilantro. Serve with mint chutney.

Notes

• Spice Level: Adjust chili powder to suit your taste.
• Make Ahead: Marinate the paneer and veggies up to 2 hours in advance.
• Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Vegan Option: Substitute paneer with firm tofu.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 400mg | Potassium: 250mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g

Enjoy your homemade Paneer Tikka! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!