Paneer Tikka Recipe (Tandoori Style Paneer Tikka at Home)

Paneer Tikka is one of the most popular Indian appetizers, loved for its smoky flavor and perfectly spiced marinade. Made with soft cubes of paneer (cottage cheese), marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled or roasted, this dish is a must-have for any party or weekend meal.

About This Paneer Tikka Recipe

This restaurant-style Paneer Tikka gives you that signature tandoori taste without needing a tandoor. The paneer is coated in a thick, flavorful marinade and cooked until slightly charred on the outside while staying soft inside. You can make it in an oven, air fryer, or even on a stovetop pan.

Ingredients

For Marination

• 250g paneer (cut into cubes)
• 1/2 cup thick curd (hung yogurt)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp chaat masala
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp mustard oil
• Salt to taste

Vegetables (Optional but Recommended)

• 1 onion (cut into cubes)
• 1 capsicum (cut into squares)
• 1 tomato (deseeded, cut into chunks)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, spices, lemon juice, mustard oil, and salt until smooth.
2. Marinate paneer: Add paneer cubes and vegetables to the marinade. Coat well and let it rest for at least 30 minutes (longer for better flavor).
3. Skewer the pieces: Thread paneer, onion, and capsicum alternately onto skewers.
4. Cook the tikka:
   • Oven: Bake at 200°C for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway.
   • Pan: Cook on a hot tawa with a little oil until charred on all sides.
   • Air fryer: Cook at 180°C for 12–15 minutes.
5. Final touch: Sprinkle chaat masala and squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Paneer Tikka

Use thick hung curd for marination to avoid watery coating. Mustard oil adds authentic tandoori flavor, and slightly charring the paneer gives it that restaurant-style smoky taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with mint chutney, onion rings, and lemon wedges. Paneer tikka also works great as a starter or as a filling for wraps and rolls.

FAQs

Can I make paneer tikka without oven?
Yes, you can easily make it on a tawa or grill pan on the stovetop.

How do I keep paneer soft?
Avoid overcooking and use fresh paneer. Marination also helps keep it soft and juicy.

Tags

paneer tikka recipe, tandoori paneer, grilled paneer, indian starter, vegetarian appetizer