Paneer Tikka Recipe (Indian Style) – Restaurant Flavours at Home

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Introduction

Paneer Tikka is a classic Indian appetiser made from chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a spiced yoghurt mixture and then grilled, roasted, or pan-fried. It is a favourite at Indian restaurants and tandoori grills, known for its smoky aroma, vibrant colour, and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

In this recipe, we show you how to make restaurant-style Paneer Tikka at home – without a tandoor! Whether you cook it in an oven, on a tawa (griddle), or in an air fryer, the taste will still be deliciously authentic.

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Why Paneer Tikka is Loved by All

🧀 Vegetarian and protein-rich

🌶️ Bold Indian spices

🔥 Can be grilled, air-fried, or cooked on a pan

🎉 Perfect for parties, starters, and BBQs

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Ingredients for Paneer Tikka

For the Tikka Marinade

200–250g paneer (cubed)

½ cup thick yoghurt (hung curd or Greek-style)

1 tbsp besan (gram flour)

1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

1 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)

½ tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp garam masala

½ tsp cumin powder

½ tsp coriander powder

½ tsp chaat masala

Salt to taste

Juice of half a lemon

1 tbsp mustard oil (for authentic flavour)

Veggies (Optional but recommended)

1 medium onion (cut into petals)

1 capsicum (any colour, cut into squares)

1 tomato (firm, deseeded, and cubed)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, add thick yoghurt and whisk until smooth.

2. Add besan, all the dry spices, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and mustard oil.

3. Mix well to form a thick, lump-free marinade.

Step 2: Marinate Paneer & Veggies

1. Add paneer cubes and chopped vegetables to the marinade.

2. Mix gently so the paneer doesn’t break.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1–2 hours for deep flavour.

> 🔥 Tip: The longer you marinate, the better the flavour. Overnight marination is ideal.

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Step 3: Cooking Options

A) Oven or Grill Method

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (fan-assisted).

2. Line a baking tray with foil and grease it lightly.

3. Thread marinated paneer and veggies alternately on skewers.

4. Place skewers on the tray and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Grill for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end for a charred finish.

B) Tawa (Pan) Method

1. Heat a flat non-stick tawa or pan with 1 tbsp oil.

2. Place marinated paneer and vegetables in batches.

3. Cook on medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden and slightly crisp on all sides.

C) Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat air fryer to 180°C.

2. Place paneer and veggies in a single layer.

3. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with mint coriander chutney and lemon wedges.

Sprinkle a little chaat masala on top before serving.

Can be used as filling in wraps, kathi rolls, or paneer tikka sandwiches.

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Paneer Tikka Tips & Tricks

Use homemade paneer or firm store-bought paneer to avoid breakage.

Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before baking or grilling.

Mustard oil adds a traditional North Indian touch but can be replaced with any cooking oil.

Add a charcoal smoke by placing a hot charcoal in a bowl inside the marinated mix, pouring a drop of oil, and covering it for 5 minutes.

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Nutrition Info (Approximate)

Component Amount per Serving

Calories 250 kcal

Protein 13g

Fat 18g

Carbs 10g

Note: Values depend on the amount of oil and paneer used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make Paneer Tikka without skewers?

Yes, simply place the pieces on a tray or cook them on a tawa/pan directly.

Q2: Can I use tofu instead of paneer?

Absolutely! Tofu is a great vegan substitute.

Q3: Can I store leftover Paneer Tikka?

Yes. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.

Q4: Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Swap paneer for tofu and use vegan yoghurt to make it fully vegan.

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Conclusion

Paneer Tikka is more than just a dish – it’s an experience! With this easy Indian-style recipe, you can enjoy the authentic tandoori taste right at home. Whether served as a starter, a party snack, or in a wrap, its smoky, spicy goodness is sure to make it a hit.

Ready to fire up your kitchen? Try this Paneer Tikka today and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

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More Indian Recipes You Might Enjoy

Tandoori Mushroom Tikka Recipe

Butter Paneer Masala – Creamy Restaurant Style

How to Make Min

t Chutney for Starters

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Tags: #PaneerTikka #IndianStarter #VegetarianBBQ #TandooriPaneer #PaneerRecipe #TikkaLovers #IndianCuisineUK

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.