Paneer Tikka is one of India’s most loved vegetarian starters. Soft chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) are marinated in spiced yogurt and roasted until smoky and golden. It’s flavourful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make at home—even without a tandoor!
This article will guide you step-by-step to prepare restaurant-style paneer tikka using simple ingredients.
How to make Panner Tikka
⭐ Ingredients You Need
For the Marinade
- 1 cup thick curd (yogurt), hung curd preferred
- 2 tbsp besan (gram flour)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp chaat masala
- 1 tsp kasuri methi (crushed)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1–2 tbsp mustard oil (for smoky flavour)
- Salt to taste
For the Tikka
- 250–300 g paneer (cut into cubes)
- 1 onion (cut into squares)
- 1 capsicum (red/green/yellow – cut into squares)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
🥣 Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk the curd until smooth. Add besan, ginger-garlic paste, red chilli powder, turmeric, garam masala, chaat masala, kasuri methi, lemon juice, mustard oil, and salt.
Mix well until you get a thick, smooth paste.
2. Add Paneer and Veggies
Gently mix in the paneer cubes, onions, and capsicum.
Coat everything evenly with the marinade.
Let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for 1–2 hours for best results.
3. Arrange on Skewers
Thread paneer, onion, and capsicum alternately on skewers.
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🔥 Cooking Methods
A. On a Tawa (Stovetop)
- Heat 2–3 tsp oil on a non-stick tawa.
- Place the skewers or individual pieces on the tawa.
- Cook on medium flame till paneer turns golden and slightly charred on all sides.
B. In the Oven
- Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Line a tray with foil and place the skewers.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, flip, and grill for another 10 minutes until browned.
C. In an Air Fryer
- Preheat to 200°C.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
🌿 Serving Suggestions
Serve paneer tikka hot with:
- Mint coriander chutney
- Lemon wedges
- Sliced onions
- A sprinkle of chaat masala
Paneer tikka also makes a great stuffing for:
- Wraps
- Rolls
- Sandwiches
- Frankie
🍽️ Tips to Make It Perfect
- Use fresh, firm paneer so it doesn’t break.
- Hung curd gives a thick, restaurant-style marinade.
- A little mustard oil adds tandoori flavour.
- Do not overcook—paneer becomes rubbery if cooked too long.
Now i think you have understood how to make panner tikka at home.