Name: Tandoori Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer, Grill, Oven, BBQ) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-497432H58M5S
Total time: PT-497432H58M5S
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 650 g (1.4 lb) Chicken breast, Approx 4 breasts, diced; 1 tsp Ground coriander; 1 tsp Ground cumin; 2 tsp Paprika; 1/2 tsp Turmeric; 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon; 1 tsp Ground ginger; 1 tsp Garlic granules; 1/2 tsp Chilli powder (optional); 1.5 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper; Red food colouring (optional, see notes); 1 Lemon, juice only; 1 tbsp Tomato puree; 50 g (0.25 cups) Natural yoghurt

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 36 reviews

If you love bold, vibrant flavors and tender, juicy chicken, then this Tandoori Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer, Grill, Oven, BBQ) Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. It brilliantly combines aromatic spices with a creamy yogurt marinade to create that signature tandoori taste right at home, no matter which cooking method you prefer. Whether you’re air frying, grilling, baking, or throwing them on the BBQ, these skewers are packed with color, smoky notes, and mouthwatering textures that will impress your family and friends every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round plate filled with grilled meat pieces on skewers. The meat is deep reddish-brown with a charred, slightly crispy look. The skewers are arranged in a loose cluster, covering almost the entire plate. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the right balance of ingredients is the secret to these tandoori chicken skewers tasting amazing. Each spice and component plays its own role, contributing to the beautiful marinade that tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with classic Indian flavors and that irresistible reddish hue.

Chicken breast (650 g, diced): The lean protein base that soaks up the marinade beautifully for juicy bites.

Ground coriander (1 tsp): Adds a fresh, citrusy undertone to brighten the spice mix.
Ground cumin (1 tsp): Gives an earthy depth that’s essential in tandoori seasoning.
Paprika (2 tsp): Provides a mild smoky flavor and the lovely red color.

Turmeric (½ tsp): Brings a warm, golden glow and slight bitterness.
Ground cinnamon (½ tsp): Adds a subtle warmth that rounds out the spices.
Ground ginger (1 tsp): Introduces a zesty, slightly spicy touch.

Garlic granules (1 tsp): Essential for that garlicky punch without overpowering.
Chilli powder (½ tsp, optional): Kick up the heat if you like it spicy.
Salt (1.5 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper (½ tsp): For a mild sharpness that livens up the mix.

Red food colouring: Optional but traditional for that iconic tandoori look.
Lemon juice (1 lemon): Adds acidity that tenderizes and balances the spices.
Tomato puree (1 tbsp): Gives body to the marinade and a slight sweetness.

Natural yoghurt (50 g): The creamy base that coats the chicken, tenderizes, and holds the spice mix together.

How to Make Tandoori Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer, Grill, Oven, BBQ) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining all the dry spices—ground coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, garlic granules, chilli powder, salt, and black pepper—in a bowl. Then mix in the natural yoghurt, tomato puree, and fresh lemon juice until you have a smooth, vibrant marinade. For the true tandoori look, add a drop or two of red food colouring if you fancy.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cube your chicken breasts evenly and add them to the marinade. Toss everything together to ensure each piece is fully coated in that luscious mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour, but for best results, leave it overnight to allow the flavors to deeply infuse and tenderize the chicken.

Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces carefully onto skewers. Try to keep the pieces evenly spaced so they cook uniformly and get beautifully charred all around—this ensures every bite is packed with juicy, spiced goodness.

Step 4: Cooking Options

This Tandoori Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer, Grill, Oven, BBQ) Recipe is wonderful because you can prepare it using your preferred method without losing any flavor or texture. Here’s how to get the best results:

Air Fryer: Place skewers in the basket, spray the tops lightly with oil, then air fry at 220℃ (400°F) for 15-20 minutes. Turn halfway to ensure even cooking. The air fryer crisps the exterior nicely while keeping it juicy.

Oven: Preheat to 180℃ (350°F). Lay skewers on a baking tray or a grill rack over the tray so the heat circulates. Lightly oil the top, bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once. This gives you a gentle roast and tender chicken.
BBQ: Place skewers directly on the grill rack, spray with oil, and cook over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes. Flip halfway to ensure char marks and even cooking. The smoky BBQ flavor is unbeatable here.
Grill: Set your grill tray under high heat, lay the skewers on top, and grill for 15-20 minutes, turning midway. This method delivers a quick char and caramelized edges.

How to Serve Tandoori Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer, Grill, Oven, BBQ) Recipe

The image shows a top view of several white bowls and plates on a white marbled surface, each holding different ingredients. The largest bowl at the top left is filled with raw pink chicken pieces. To the right is a small white bowl with a smooth white liquid, likely yogurt or cream. Below the large bowl, there is a medium-sized white bowl holding an oil with a light green tint. To its left is a small bowl with a deep red paste, possibly tomato or chili paste. Below these, there is a tiny bowl with salt and black pepper mixed side by side, and another small bowl with a yellow liquid resembling lemon juice or vinegar. On the right side, a large white plate contains a variety of colorful dry spices arranged in small heaps, including red, brown, black, and yellow powders. The layout is neat and each container clearly shows the texture and color of the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serve these skewers garnished with fresh coriander leaves and wedges of lemon or lime for an extra zing. A sprinkle of finely sliced red onion and a dollop of cooling natural yoghurt or raita on the side lifts the entire dish, balancing the spices and adding freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair your tandoori chicken skewers with fluffy basmati rice, warm garlic naan, or a crisp cucumber salad. These sides complement the smoky, spicy flavors perfectly and round out a meal full of color and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by skewering the chicken with colorful vegetable pieces like bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes. You can also serve the skewers on a bed of greens or alongside a platter of chutneys and pickles for a vibrant, festive feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover tandoori chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more, making great next-day meals or snacks.

Freezing

You can freeze fully cooked skewers by wrapping them individually in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 180℃ (350°F) for about 10 minutes or in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

Do I need to use red food colouring?

Red food colouring is optional and mainly for that classic tandoori look. The marinade will still taste incredible without it—just a little less vibrant in color.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best flavor, marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight in the fridge is ideal to really let those spices penetrate the meat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your spice brands and tomato puree to ensure they don’t contain additives with gluten.

What if I don’t have skewers?

No worries! You can cook the chicken chunks directly in the air fryer basket, on the BBQ rack, or on a baking tray. Just make sure not to overcrowd for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Tandoori Chicken Skewers (Air Fryer, Grill, Oven, BBQ) Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Indian favorite in the comfort of your home, no matter what cooking method suits you best. Its vibrant spices, juicy chicken, and versatility make it a winner for any occasion. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and make it your own – trust me, it’s worth every bite!