Why We Love This Recipe

Paneer Tikka is not just a dish—it’s a celebration of Indian flavors. Tender cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, skewered with crunchy vegetables, and grilled to perfection… It’s no surprise that this vegetarian delight has won hearts across the globe!

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ party, planning an Indian-themed dinner, or just want to elevate your everyday meal, Paneer Tikka delivers on every front. It’s smoky, spicy, tangy, and satisfying—a true crowd-pleaser for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

It’s also a fantastic introduction to Indian cuisine for those unfamiliar, as it’s rich in flavor but not overwhelmingly spicy. Paneer Tikka is a must-try for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and unique textures.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 1 hour (or more for deeper flavor)
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

Calories (Per Serving)

• Approximate Calories: 300–350 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings)

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Marinade:

• 200g thick hung curd (or Greek yogurt)
• 2 tbsp gram flour (besan)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp mustard oil (optional but adds flavor)
• Salt to taste

Main Ingredients:

• 300g paneer, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1 large capsicum (green bell pepper), cubed
• 1 large tomato (firm), deseeded and cubed (optional)
• Butter or oil for basting

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, add hung curd or Greek yogurt.
2. Whisk until smooth, then add ginger-garlic paste, gram flour, all spices, lemon juice, mustard oil, and salt.
3. Mix well to form a thick, smooth marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Paneer and Vegetables

1. Add paneer cubes, onion, capsicum, and tomato into the marinade.
2. Gently coat everything without breaking the paneer.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Skewer and Grill

1. Thread paneer, onion, capsicum, and tomato alternately onto skewers.
2. Preheat a grill pan, tandoor, or oven to 200°C (400°F).
3. Place the skewers on the hot grill or in the oven.
4. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred edges appear and paneer is slightly golden.
5. Baste occasionally with butter or oil to keep them moist.

How to Serve Paneer Tikka

• Serve hot with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and sliced onions.
• You can also serve it with naan, roti, or jeera rice for a complete meal.
• It works beautifully as a starter, snack, or even a filling for wraps and sandwiches.

Tips for the Perfect Paneer Tikka

1. Use firm, fresh paneer – Soft paneer may break during skewering or grilling.
2. Hung curd or Greek yogurt is essential to avoid watery marinade.
3. Mustard oil adds a traditional tandoori flavor. Heat it before adding to remove rawness.
4. Char it well – A few burnt edges add that authentic smoky taste.
5. Don’t overcook – Paneer can become chewy if grilled too long.

Variations

• Tandoori Mushroom Tikka: Replace paneer with button mushrooms.
• Vegan Tikka: Use tofu instead of paneer and vegan yogurt for marination.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed green chilies or more chili powder.
• Paneer Tikka Masala: Turn leftovers into a rich curry by simmering in a tomato-onion gravy.

Storage & Freezing

Storing:

• Refrigerate leftover tikka in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in a microwave or oven for best results.

Freezing:

• Marinated paneer and vegetables can be frozen raw (before grilling) in a zip-lock bag for up to 1 month.
• Thaw before grilling.

Avoid freezing already grilled paneer—texture may turn rubbery.

Special Equipment Needed

• Skewers (metal or wooden)
• Grill pan or barbecue grill
• Oven (if grilling indoors)
• Mixing bowl and whisk

Optional: A kitchen blowtorch for an extra charred look if cooking in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I make Paneer Tikka without an oven or grill?

Yes! You can cook it in a regular non-stick or cast-iron pan. Just make sure to cook on medium-high heat and baste with oil for a similar effect.

Q2. Why is my paneer chewy?

Overcooking is the most common reason. Cook just until golden with slight charring.

Q3. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Marinate in advance and refrigerate. Grill just before serving for best texture.

Q4. Is it very spicy?

Not necessarily! You can adjust the spice level based on your preference. Skip or reduce chili powder if needed.

Q5. What type of yogurt is best?

Thick yogurt is essential. Greek yogurt or well-drained homemade curd (hung curd) is perfect.

Conclusion

Paneer Tikka is the ultimate vegetarian appetizer that never fails to impress. With its vibrant colors, smoky aroma, and melt-in-the-mouth texture, it brings the magic of Indian tandoori cuisine right into your kitchen. Easy to customize, quick to cook, and guaranteed to delight—this is one recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Whether you’re a seasoned Indian food lover or just discovering its richness, Paneer Tikka is a must-try dish that checks all the boxes: flavor, simplicity, and versatility.