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paneer tikka served with mint chutney

Paneer Tikka (Oven, Air Fryer & Stovetop)

Jyoti Behrani
Soft, juicy paneer cubes marinated in a flavorful spiced yogurt mixture and cooked until perfectly charred. This easy paneer tikka recipe can be made in the oven, air fryer, or on the stovetop for a delicious restaurant-style appetizer at home.
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Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Appetizer, snacks
Cuisine Indian
Servings 8
Calories 128 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

For Paneer & Veggies

For Marinade

For Cooking

For Serving

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep

  • Cut paneer into medium-large cubes.
  • Chop bell peppers and onions into similar-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make Marinade

  • In a large bowl, whisk yogurt until smooth.
  • Add ginger garlic paste, spices, lemon juice, oil, salt, and roasted besan.
  • Mix well to form a thick, smooth marinade.

Step 3: Marinate

  • Add paneer, onions, and bell peppers to the marinade.
  • Gently mix to coat everything evenly.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).

Step 4: Cook (Oven, Air Fryer, or Stovetop)

    Oven Method

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Thread paneer and veggies onto skewers or place on a lined tray.
    • Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
    • Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for charred edges.

    Air Fryer Method

    • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
    • Place marinated paneer and veggies in a single layer.
    • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
    • Brush lightly with oil for best texture.

    Stovetop Method

    • Heat a pan or grill pan on medium-high heat.
    • Add a little oil or ghee and place paneer pieces.
    • Cook until golden and slightly charred on all sides.

    Notes

    Tips
    • Use thick yogurt to prevent watery marinade.
    • Do not overcook paneer or it will turn rubbery.
    • Mustard oil adds authentic tandoori flavor.
    • Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra smoky taste (optional).
     
    Pro Tip
    For restaurant-style smoky flavor, place a small bowl with hot charcoal in the cooked paneer tikka, drizzle a few drops of ghee on the charcoal, cover immediately, and let it smoke for 2-3 minutes.
     
    Variations
    1. Malai Paneer Tikka - add cream and cheese for a rich version
    2. Hariyali Tikka - add mint and coriander to marinade
    3. Achari Tikka - add pickle masala for tangy flavor
    4. Vegan Tikka - replace paneer with tofu, yogurt with plant-based yogurt, ghee with oil
     
    Storage
    • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
    • Reheat in air fryer or pan for best texture

    Nutrition

    Nutrition Facts
    Paneer Tikka (Oven, Air Fryer & Stovetop)
    Amount per Serving
    Calories
    128
    % Daily Value*
    Fat
     
    10
    g
    15
    %
    Saturated Fat
     
    5
    g
    31
    %
    Polyunsaturated Fat
     
    0.5
    g
    Monounsaturated Fat
     
    1
    g
    Cholesterol
     
    22
    mg
    7
    %
    Sodium
     
    21
    mg
    1
    %
    Potassium
     
    115
    mg
    3
    %
    Carbohydrates
     
    5
    g
    2
    %
    Fiber
     
    1
    g
    4
    %
    Sugar
     
    3
    g
    3
    %
    Protein
     
    5
    g
    10
    %
    Vitamin A
     
    794
    IU
    16
    %
    Vitamin C
     
    26
    mg
    32
    %
    Calcium
     
    174
    mg
    17
    %
    Iron
     
    0.4
    mg
    2
    %
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Disclaimer

    Nutrition values are my best estimates. If you rely on them for your diet, use your preferred nutrition calculator.

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