Make Flavorful Hariyali Chicken Tikka With This Easy Recipe

Ingredients

For the Green Marinade:

• Fresh coriander leaves – 1 cup, tightly packed
• Fresh mint leaves – ½ cup, tightly packed
• Spinach (optional) – ½ cup (adds a vibrant green color)
• Green chilies – 2-3 (adjust as per spice preference)
• Garlic cloves – 6-7
• Ginger – 1-inch piece
• Yogurt (curd) – ½ cup (thick, hung curd preferred)
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
• Cumin powder – 1 teaspoon
• Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
• Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper powder – ½ teaspoon
• Salt – as per taste
• Oil – 2 tablespoons

For the Chicken:

• Boneless chicken pieces (breast or thighs) – 500 grams, cut into cubes
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

For Garnishing:

• Lemon wedges
• Sliced onions
• Fresh mint leaves

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Green Marinade

• In a blender or food processor, combine fresh coriander leaves, mint leaves, spinach (optional), green chilies, garlic cloves, ginger, and lemon juice.
• Blend until smooth, adding a tablespoon of water if needed to make a thick paste.
• Transfer the paste to a bowl and add yogurt, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, black pepper powder, salt, and 2 tablespoons of oil.
• Mix everything well until you get a smooth, green marinade. Taste and adjust salt or spice if required.

2. Marinate the Chicken

• Pat dry the boneless chicken pieces with a kitchen towel to remove any moisture.
• Add the chicken cubes to the prepared green marinade. Mix well, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
• Cover the bowl with cling wrap or a lid and let the chicken marinate for at least 1-2 hours in the refrigerator. For best results, marinate overnight.

3. Prepare the Skewers

• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving some space between each piece to allow even cooking.

4. Cook the Hariyali Chicken Tikka

Option 1: Oven/Grill Method:

• Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and grease it lightly.
• Place the skewers on the tray and brush the chicken pieces with a little oil.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the skewers halfway through. Brush with a little oil or butter for added moisture.
• Once cooked, switch the oven to broil mode and broil for 2-3 minutes to get a nice char on the chicken pieces.

Option 2: Stove-top Method (Pan-fry):

• Heat a grill pan or regular non-stick pan on medium-high heat. Brush with oil.
• Place the chicken skewers on the hot pan and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly.
• Brush with a little butter or ghee for a smoky flavor. Cook until the chicken is tender and slightly charred.

Option 3: Charcoal/BBQ Grill:

• Preheat the charcoal grill. Place the skewers on the hot grill.
• Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure even cooking.
• Brush with butter for enhanced flavor and smokiness.

5. Serve

• Remove the skewers and let them rest for a minute.
• Garnish with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and fresh mint leaves.
• Serve hot with mint chutney or yogurt dip for a delicious experience.

Tips for Perfect Hariyali Chicken Tikka

• Thick Marinade: Use hung curd or thick yogurt to prevent the marinade from becoming runny.
• Marination Time: Longer marination (at least 2 hours) ensures tender and flavorful chicken.
• Cooking Evenly: Turn the skewers regularly to cook the chicken evenly and prevent burning.
• Smoky Flavor: For a restaurant-style smoky aroma, place a burning charcoal piece in a bowl inside the marinated chicken, cover, and let it sit for 10 minutes before cooking.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with paneer or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hariyali Chicken Tikka is a protein-packed, low-carb dish perfect for parties, snacks, or light dinners. The freshness of mint and coriander, combined with aromatic spices, makes it a flavorful and healthy appetizer.

Enjoy this mouthwatering green chicken tikka with friends and family.