A smoky, spicy, and delicious Tandoori Paneer Tikka recipe made with soft paneer cubes marinated in yogurt and aromatic Indian spices, then grilled until perfectly charred outside and juicy inside.
Tandoori Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer made with soft cubes of paneer marinated in a flavorful mixture of thick yogurt, ginger garlic paste, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, chaat masala, lemon juice, oil, and salt. To prepare this delicious dish, first make the marinade by combining all the spices, yogurt, and other ingredients in a bowl until smooth and well mixed. Add paneer cubes along with onion petals and capsicum pieces, then gently coat everything in the marinade and let it rest for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can absorb properly. Once marinated, arrange the paneer and vegetables on skewers or place them on a baking tray, grill pan, or air fryer basket. Cook until the paneer becomes slightly golden and charred on the outside while staying soft and juicy from the inside. It can be baked in a preheated oven at 220°C for 12 to 15 minutes, grilled on a tawa or pan with a little oil, or air fried at 200°C for 10 to 12 minutes. Brushing it with butter or oil while cooking gives it an extra rich flavor and beautiful restaurant-style finish. Serve the hot Tandoori Paneer Tikka with mint chutney, sliced onions, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of chaat masala for a perfect snack, starter, or party appetizer.