Ingredients:
- Chicken Marinade:
- 1 kg boneless chicken, cut into tikka-sized pieces
- 1 cup thick yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons raw papaya paste (acts as a tenderizer)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons mustard oil (or any cooking oil)
- 2 teaspoons red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
- 4-5 green chilies, finely chopped
- A handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- A handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, raw papaya paste, lemon juice, mustard oil, red chili powder, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, black pepper powder, and salt.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade.
- Add the finely chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, and mint leaves.
- Mix everything well, ensuring the chicken pieces are well coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight for best results.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
- Skewer the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
- Grill the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
- Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in an oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken tikka from the skewers and serve hot.
- Garnish with additional chopped coriander leaves and lemon wedges.
- Serve with naan, roti, or steamed rice, along with mint chutney or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your delicious Behari Chicken Tikka!