Introduction
If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine and looking for a delicious, keto-friendly, and high-protein dish, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll show you how to make a mouthwatering Cheesy Chicken Tikka that’s not only easy to prepare but also fits perfectly into your low-carb and high-protein keto diet. With the perfect blend of flavors and a cheesy twist, this dish will leave you craving for more. So, let’s get started and indulge in this delightful keto-friendly delight!
What You’ll Need
To kickstart this incredible culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast (Boneless) – 500g, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Greek Yogurt – 1/2 cup
- Cheddar Cheese (shredded) – 1/2 cup
- Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
- Ginger (grated) – 1 tablespoon
- Garam Masala – 1 teaspoon
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder – 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Marinating the Chicken:
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to marinate the chicken to infuse it with flavor and tenderize it.
Step 1 – Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, paprika, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix everything well until you get a smooth and creamy marinade.
Step 2 – Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or ideally, overnight) to allow the flavors to meld.
Preparing the Cheesy Chicken Tikka:
Now that the chicken is marinated to perfection, it’s time to add a cheesy twist to this classic dish.
Step 1 – Preheat the Grill or Oven:
Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the skewers.
Step 2 – Assemble the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Make sure not to overcrowd them, allowing even cooking.
Step 3 – Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken skewers. The cheese will melt and infuse its gooey goodness into the tikka.
Step 4 – Grill or Bake:
Place the skewers on the grill or in the oven and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serving Your Delectable Cheesy Chicken Tikka:
Congratulations! Your high-protein keto-friendly Cheesy Chicken Tikka is now ready to be devoured.
Step 1 – Garnish:
Garnish your tikka with freshly chopped cilantro and a drizzle of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Step 2 – Accompaniments:
Serve your Cheesy Chicken Tikka with a side of mint chutney or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad to complement the flavors.
Step 3 – Enjoy:
Dig into the succulent and cheesy delight with your family and friends. This dish is perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Making high-protein keto-friendly Cheesy Chicken Tikka is easier than you might think. With a blend of aromatic spices, creamy Greek yogurt, and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese, this dish is a true delight for your taste buds. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a flavorful, protein-packed meal, this recipe will not disappoint. So, next time you crave an Indian-inspired dish that fits your dietary needs, give this Cheesy Chicken Tikka a try!
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A1: While boneless chicken is preferred for tikka, bone-in chicken can also be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Q3: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A3: Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook. However, it’s best to add the cheese just before grilling or baking.
Q4: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A4: To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu and follow the same marinating and grilling steps.
Q5: Can I use an air fryer instead of a grill or oven?
A5: Absolutely! An air fryer works well for this recipe and will give you similar results to grilling or baking.
Also Read: How To Make Protein Loaded Paneer Roastie At Home