Are you craving something smoky, flavourful, and vegetarian? Look no further than the Smoky Grilled Paneer Tikka – a star dish in Indian cuisine that perfectly balances spice, tang, and texture. This protein-packed appetiser has become a global favourite, thanks to its rich marinade, vibrant colours, and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a Barbeque, cooking for a weeknight dinner, or preparing an appetiser for a party, this dish will never disappoint.
In this detailed post, you’ll learn how to make restaurant-style grilled paneer tikka at home using simple ingredients and easy methods. Whether you’re using a grill pan, oven, or Barbeque, this recipe has you covered.
What Is Paneer Tikka?
Paneer Tikka is a classic Indian starter made from cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), marinated in a mixture of thick yogurt and spices, and then grilled or roasted until slightly charred. It’s often served with grilled onions and bell peppers on skewers, along with mint chutney and lemon wedges. This dish originates from North India but is now beloved across the country and even internationally.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Paneer Tikka Recipe
- Vegetarian & Protein-Rich: A delicious option for vegetarians and paneer lovers.
- Customisable: Add or skip veggies as per your taste.
- Smoky & Flavourful: The char-grilled finish adds restaurant-style magic.
- Easy to Make: You can prepare it on a grill, in an oven, or on a stovetop.
Paneer Tikka
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 200 g paneer cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp thick curd hung curd or Greek yogurt preferred
- 1 tbsp besan gram flour – helps the marinade stick better
- 1 tbsp mustard oil – for authentic flavor
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder – for vibrant color
- ½ tsp hot red chili powder – for heat optional
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp chat masala
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Skewers:
- 1 small onion cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper or any color, cubed
- 1 tomato deseeded and cubed (optional)
- Skewers – wooden soaked or metal
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the thick curd until smooth and lump-free. Then add besan, mustard oil, ginger-garlic paste, and all the spices – turmeric, red chili powders, cumin, garam masala, chaat masala, and salt.
- Once done, squeeze in lemon juice and mix well to form a smooth, thick marinade.
- The besan adds body, and the mustard oil gives that signature smoky flavour that’s characteristic of tandoori dishes.
- Add Paneer and Veggies. Gently add the paneer cubes, onion, bell peppers, and tomato chunks into the marinade. After that toss everything gently with your hands or a soft spatula to ensure an even coating.
- Tip: Be careful not to break the paneer while mixing.
- Marinate. After mixing everything well, cover the bowl with a lid or cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for deeper flavour). The longer you marinate, the better the taste.
- Skewer the Paneer. Thread the marinated paneer cubes and veggies alternately onto skewers. You can use metal skewers for grilling or soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using them – this prevents burning.
- Grill the Skewers. Depending on the equipment available, you can grill the paneer tikka in several ways:
- Using a Grill Pan (Stovetop): Heat a grill pan on medium heat and brush it with a little oil. Once your grill is hot, place the skewers and cook each side for 3–4 minutes.Rotate until all sides are nicely grilled and slightly charred.
- Using an Outdoor Grill: Preheat the grill.Place the skewers directly on the grates and grill until charred and cooked, rotating halfway through.
- Using an Oven: Preheat to 200°C (400°F).Line a baking tray with foil and place the skewers.Bake for 15–18 minutes, then broil/grill for 2–3 minutes for a smoky effect.
Serving Suggestions for Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka tastes best when served hot, right off the grill. Here are some serving ideas:
- With green mint chutney and lemon wedges
- Alongside jeera rice or naan for a complete meal
- In a wrap or roll with sliced onions and green chutney
- On a salad base for a low-carb option
Storage & Reheating Tips
Storage: Store any leftover grilled paneer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat on a tawa or grill pan for best texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the paneer rubbery.
Expert Tips for the Best Paneer Tikka
- Use Firm Paneer: Homemade or store-bought paneer should be firm enough to hold its shape on skewers.
- Thick Curd Only: Always use hung curd or Greek yogurt to prevent the marinade from becoming runny.
- Do Not Overcook: Overcooking will make paneer tough and chewy. Aim for golden edges and slight charring.
- Add Smokiness (Optional): For a traditional tandoori effect, heat a piece of coal until red hot, place it in a small bowl inside the marinated mixture, pour a drop of ghee, and cover for 2–3 minutes.Don’t Skip Mustard Oil: It enhances the authentic taste – you can heat it lightly to reduce pungency before using.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make paneer tikka without skewers?
Yes, simply place the paneer and veggies directly on a greased grill pan or baking tray. Flip them carefully while grilling or baking.
Can I use store-bought paneer?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fresh and firm. If it’s too hard, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before marinating.
Is paneer tikka healthy?
Yes! It’s a high-protein, low-carb vegetarian dish. Grilling instead of frying keeps it light and healthy.
Can I use tofu instead of paneer?
Yes, tofu is a great vegan alternative. Use extra-firm tofu for the best results and press it to remove excess moisture before marinating.
Can I freeze marinated paneer tikka?
You can freeze the marinated paneer for up to a week, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavour.
Variations to Try
Air Fryer Paneer Tikka
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F), brush or spray the skewers with oil, and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Paneer Tikka Masala
Transform your grilled tikka into a rich curry by simmering the grilled pieces in a tomato-onion masala base.
Vegan Tikka
Swap paneer with tofu and curd with plant-based yogurt to create a delicious vegan-friendly option.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever tasted paneer tikka at a restaurant and thought it was too complicated to make at home, this recipe will change your mind. Smoky Grilled Paneer Tikka is easy, quick, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re an Indian food enthusiast or someone looking to explore flavourful vegetarian appetisers, this dish is a must-try.
So fire up your grill (or oven or pan), gather your spices, and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of smoky grilled paneer tikka. Don’t forget to serve it with mint chutney and a squeeze of lemon for that final burst of flavour!
Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag me on Instagram/facebook/Youtube/Pintrest with your creations!
From my kitchen to your plate –– Enjoy your culinary creation!