Description
Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in yogurt, tomato paste, and warm spices, served with a fresh cilantro lime yogurt sauce. A flavorful Indian-inspired appetizer or high-protein meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips
1/3 cup plain whole milk yogurt
Juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons avocado oil
For the Cilantro Lime Sauce
3/4 cup plain whole milk yogurt
Juice of 1/2 lime
1 garlic clove
1 small bunch fresh cilantro with tough stems removed
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Place the chicken strips in a large bowl and coat with yogurt and lemon juice.
3. In another bowl mix tomato paste, garam masala, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, ginger, coriander, chili powder, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and avocado oil.
4. Add the spice mixture to the chicken and mix thoroughly until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
5. Prepare the sauce by blending yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, ginger, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
6. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat around 425–450°F.
7. Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers.
8. Grill skewers for about 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly charred.
9. Remove from grill and serve warm with cilantro lime sauce.
Notes
Soaking wooden skewers prevents burning during grilling.
Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness.
For indoor cooking, bake at high heat and finish with a quick broil for light char.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired