Post published on March 13, 2021 by vspiceroute

Last post modified on June 30, 2026 by vspiceroute

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Introducing Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is one of the most popular Indian appetizers, made with soft paneer cubes marinated in flavorful spices and yogurt, then grilled until perfectly charred. This easy homemade Paneer Tikka recipe gives you restaurant-style results using an oven, grill pan, or stovetop, no outdoor grill required!

Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy evening snack, or preparing a vegetarian appetizer, this recipe is quick, delicious, and packed with authentic Indian flavors. It can also be made Jain by skipping ginger and garlic, or vegan by replacing paneer with tofu and using dairy-free yogurt.

Dish Inspiration

Paneer Tikka has always been a family favorite in our home. It’s one of those recipes that’s requested over and over because it’s incredibly simple yet packed with bold flavors. While it’s traditionally cooked in a tandoor, you can easily recreate the same delicious charred texture using a grill pan or oven throughout the year.

This recipe is perfect for entertaining guests, weekend dinners, or whenever you’re craving restaurant-style Indian food at home.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tsp Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • 1 tsp amchur powder (dry mango powder)
  • ½ tsp chaat masala
  • 2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tsp oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • ½ tsp garam masala

Vegetables

  • 200 g paneer, cut into cubes
  • ½ bell pepper, cut into squares
  • ¼ onion, cut into squares

For Cooking

  • 4–6 wooden skewers (soaked in water)
  • 1–2 tsp lime juice
  • Cilantro mint chutney, for serving
  • Pickled onions, for serving

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Wooden skewers
  • Grill pan, stovetop grill, or oven
  • Baking tray (if using oven)

How to Make Paneer Tikka

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • Greek yogurt
  • Kasuri methi
  • Amchur powder
  • Kashmiri chili powder
  • Chaat masala
  • Garam masala
  • Ginger-garlic paste
  • Oil
  • Salt

Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Marinate

Add the paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onions to the marinade.

Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Cover and marinate for 1–2 hours for the best flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the paneer, onions, and bell peppers onto soaked wooden skewers, alternating between each ingredient.

Step 4: Cook

Oven Method

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place skewers on a lined baking tray.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly charred.

Grill Pan/Stovetop Method

  • Heat a grill pan over medium heat.
  • Lightly spray or brush with oil.
  • Grill skewers for 5–10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred on all sides.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the hot paneer tikka and serve immediately with cilantro mint chutney and pickled onions.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in an air fryer, oven, or skillet until warmed through.
  • Avoid microwaving for too long, as the paneer can become chewy.
  • Marinated paneer can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Paneer Tikka tastes delicious with:

  • Cilantro mint chutney
  • Pickled onions
  • Lemon wedges
  • Laccha onion salad
  • Roomali roti or naan
  • Jeera rice
  • Green salad
  • As a filling for wraps, sandwiches, or rolls

Expert Tips

  • Use Greek yogurt for a thick marinade that coats the paneer well.
  • Marinate for at least 1 hour for maximum flavor.
  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • Don’t overcook the paneer, it should stay soft and juicy.
  • Use Kashmiri chili powder for vibrant color without making the dish overly spicy.
  • Add a little mustard oil to the marinade for a more authentic tandoori flavor.
  • Brush with butter or oil during the last few minutes of cooking for extra richness.
  • For a smoky restaurant-style flavor, finish with the dhungar (charcoal smoke) method if desired.
Paneer Tika

Paneer Tikka

Why wait for summer to grill those paneers? You can grill them all around the year on a grill pan or using the oven. Paneer Tikka is the most loved paneer dish in my family. I love how quick and easy the recipe is and it is a perfect snack or appetizer. This recipe can be made jain by skipping ginger and garlic and it can be made vegan replacing paneer with tofu and using plant based yogurt. I got a lot of request for this recipe so I cant wait to see you all make it.
5 from 10 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Indian
Servings 3 people

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup greek yogurt
  • 2 tsp kasoori methi
  • 1 tsp amchoor powder raw mango powder
  • 1/2 tsp chaat masala
  • 2 tsp kashmiri chili powder
  • 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoon oil
  • salt as needed
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1-2 teaspoon lime juice to squeeze on top
  • 200 gram paneer cut into square cubes
  • 1/2 bell peppers cut into square shapes
  • 1/4 onions cut in to square shapes
  • 4-6 skewers soaked in water

Instructions
 

  • Whisk together yogurt, amchoor powder, salt, kasoori methi, kashmiri chili, powder, ginger garlic paste, 1 tsp oil, garam masala and chaat masala
  • Stir in paneer cubes and peppers and onions
  • Coat them well and leave out for 1-2 hours
  • Use the skewers to arrange paneer, peppers and onions alternating
  • If using oven bake at 400 Fahrenheit for 10 minute until paneer is charred
  • If using stove top, spray oil on the pan and grill the paneer for 5-10 minutes, flipping it till it’s charred
  • Squeeze lime juice on paneer and serve with cilantro mint chutney and pickled onions
Keyword Healthy Food