Paneer Tikka is one of the most popular vegetarian appetizers in Indian cuisine. Juicy cubes of paneer marinated in creamy yogurt and spices then grilled until lightly charred and smoky create a dish that is irresistible. Whether it is a family gathering a party or a weekend craving paneer tikka always feels special. The aroma of roasted spices the soft texture of paneer and the slight smokiness make it a perfect starter for any occasion.
Making perfect paneer tikka at home is easier than many people think. With the right marinade and proper cooking technique you can achieve the same restaurant style flavor on a pan oven or even in an air fryer. This article explains every step in detail so that even beginners can recreate authentic paneer tikka effortlessly.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Marinade
- 1 cup thick curd or hung curd
- 2 tablespoons gram flour lightly roasted
- 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chilli powder for color
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi crushed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt to taste
For the Tikka
- 300 grams paneer cut into large cubes
- 1 onion cut into square pieces
- 1 capsicum cut into square pieces
- Wooden or steel skewers optional
For Serving
- Mint chutney
- Onion rings
- Lemon wedges
Step by Step Method to Make Paneer Tikka
Step 1
Prepare the Marinade
- Take a mixing bowl and add thick curd.
- Add roasted gram flour and mix until smooth.
- Add ginger garlic paste turmeric red chilli Kashmiri chilli garam masala cumin coriander kasuri methi lemon juice and salt.
- Add two tablespoons of oil to make the marinade glossy and help the paneer roast evenly.
- Mix everything until you get a thick smooth flavorful marinade.
The marinade should cling to the paneer without dripping.
Step 2
Add Paneer and Vegetables
- Add the paneer cubes onion pieces and capsicum pieces to the marinade.
- Coat everything gently without breaking the paneer.
- Cover the bowl and let it rest for at least one hour in the refrigerator.
- For deeper flavor you can marinate for up to three hours.
Marination infuses the spices and gives paneer its restaurant style taste.
Step 3
Prepare for Cooking
Paneer tikka can be cooked in three ways
on a pan
in an oven
in an air fryer
You can choose any method because the taste remains excellent.
Step 4
Cooking on a Pan
- Heat one tablespoon oil in a non stick pan.
- Place the marinated paneer and vegetables on the pan.
- Cook on medium heat.
- Turn the pieces gently so all sides get a golden crispy coating.
- Cook until you see light char marks.
This is the easiest method and gives great flavor.
Step 5
Cooking in an Oven
- Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius.
- Arrange the marinated paneer and vegetables on skewers or a baking tray.
- Brush with a little oil.
- Bake for ten to twelve minutes.
- Turn once and bake again until charred slightly.
Step 6
Cooking in an Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Place the paneer pieces in a single layer.
- Air fry for ten minutes.
- Brush a little oil and cook for five more minutes.
Air frying gives a crisp finish with very little oil.
Step 7
Serve the Paneer Tikka
Remove the tikka from the heat and place it on a serving platter.
Serve with
- Mint chutney
- Onion rings
- Lemon wedges
Squeeze a little lemon juice on top for extra freshness.
Tips for Perfect Paneer Tikka
- Always use thick curd so the marinade sticks well
- Roast gram flour lightly before adding
- Do not overcook paneer or it will turn rubbery
- Keep heat medium so spices do not burn
- Add onions and capsicum for extra flavor and texture
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor
- Brush oil lightly while cooking for good color
Variations You Can Try
- Add a little cream to the marinade for richer taste
- Use smoked paprika for deeper smoky flavor
- Make hariyali paneer tikka with coriander and mint paste
- Add mushrooms potatoes or tofu for variety
- Make tikka rolls using roti or paratha
Approximate Nutrition per Serving
Values may vary
- Calories 280 to 360
- Protein 14g
- Carbohydrates 10g
- Fat 20g