Paneer tikka skewers
Experience vibrant Indian flavours in our paneer tikka recipe. Creamy paneer cubes are skewered with sweet, crisp peppers and onions, coated in a spiced Greek yogurt marinade, and served with fresh mint yogurt dressing and a squeeze of lime. It makes for a bright, satisfying Indian dish with a delicious balance of creamy, tangy, and subtly smoky notes.
Ingredients
Paneer tikka skewers
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2
Pepper
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2
Red onions
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2
Garlic cloves
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2 cm
Ginger, freshly grated
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1
Lime, juice
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1 tsp
Garam masala
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½ tsp
Chilli flakes
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½ tsp
Salt
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Freshly ground pepper
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100 ml
Fresh coriander
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100 ml
Fresh mint
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Mint dressing
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100 ml
Fresh mint
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1
Garlic clove
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½
Lime, juice
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¼ tsp
Salt
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Freshly ground pepper
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To serve
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1
Lime, cut into wedges
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Fresh mint leaves
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8
Wooden skewers
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Instructions
Paneer tikka skewers
Mint dressing and serving
Recipe tips
It’s often the small details that make the biggest impact in the kitchen, so we’re sharing the tips we rely on when cooking and creating recipes
Paneer comes packed with surface moisture, and if you use it straight from the packet, the yogurt marinade slides off and browns poorly. Patting the paneer dry with kitchen paper helps the spices cling properly and allows the edges to caramelise in the oven instead of steaming, resulting in a noticeable difference in both flavour and texture.
Once you mix yogurt with lime juice, garlic, and ginger, it loosens slightly. Letting the marinade rest for 5-10 minutes allows the flavours to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly. A thicker marinade adheres better to the paneer and vegetables and creates that lightly charred coating you want from tikka-style cooking.
Even on a rack, ovens can have hot spots, and the paneer may brown unevenly. Turning the skewers once midway ensures all sides get an even golden colour while keeping the interior soft and moist. This step guarantees consistent texture and that signature tikka-style char on all sides.
FAQ: Questions about paneer tikka
Follow our paneer tikka recipe with the questions and answers below in mind, and you are sure to achieve the best results.
What is paneer tikka?
Paneer tikka is a popular Indian dish with fresh paneer cubes, peppers, and red onions marinated in Greek yogurt with garlic, ginger, lime juice, garam masala, chilli flakes, mint, and coriander. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, this oven-baked version offers golden, lightly charred paneer with roasted vegetables.
How do I prevent paneer from becoming rubbery?
To keep paneer soft, start by soaking the cubes in warm, salted water for 10 minutes, then pat dry before marinating. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in a yogurt-based mixture to retain moisture. Bake at 200 °C for 25-30 minutes, keeping an eye on the skewers to avoid overcooking. Full-cream paneer is recommended, as low-fat varieties tend to turn chewy.
Can I freeze marinated paneer tikka?
Yes, uncooked, marinated paneer and vegetables can be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to an airtight container for up to two months. Cooked, it can be frozen for 2-3 months once cooled. Generally, skip adding salt to the marinade, as it draws out moisture, which can make the paneer slightly wet or alter the texture of the vegetables. Add it after thawing instead. Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or skillet to preserve the texture; avoid microwaving, as this can cause the paneer to become rubbery.
What is the best way to serve paneer tikka?
Serve the paneer tikka skewers hot, accompanied by mint yogurt dressing, lime wedges, and fresh mint. Raw red onion or salad leaves add crunch and colour. For a full meal, pair with sides like naan, roti, or rice. Paneer tikka is perfect for sharing on a platter with friends or as a filling for wraps and bowls once you remove the skewers. In wraps, pair with crisp salad, chutneys, or a drizzle of extra yogurt, while in bowls, it can sit atop grains, roasted vegetables, and greens for a flavour-packed, portable meal.
Nutritional values per serving
Energy:
38 Kcal
| Energy distribution % | Nutritional values per serving | |
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| Fibre | - | 1.2 g |
| Protein | 10.8 % | 1 g |
| Fat | 4.7 % | 0.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 84.5 % | 7.8 g |
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Enjoy the delicious taste of paneer tikka skewers with vegetables
Our paneer tikka skewers are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Golden, slightly charred cubes of paneer are creamy and melt in your mouth, while sweet peppers in multiple colours and red onions roast to a tender-crisp perfection, adding natural sweetness, vibrant colour, and a subtle smokiness. Each bite combines soft, juicy, and lightly firm textures with layers of flavour from a lightly spiced Greek yogurt marinade, giving everything a fragrant, aromatic lift in the oven.
If you enjoy these delicious skewers, try some of our other easy, vegetable-packed bakes. These flavourful vegetarian enchiladas layer roasted vegetables in a spiced sauce, our easy halloumi traybake pairs tender vegetables with golden halloumi cheese, and this briam recipe gives you roasted vegetables with herbs, tomato sauce, and white cheese.
Rich marinade made from Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, and spices
The marinade brings all the flavours together. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a subtle tang, while garlic and ginger lend warmth and depth. Garam masala is a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and coriander, which gives the dish its distinctive Indian aroma and earthy, slightly sweet flavour, balanced by a gentle kick from chilli flakes. Fresh coriander and mint add bright, herbaceous freshness. Marinating the paneer and vegetables ensures that every bite is aromatic, balanced, and completely irresistible.
Make an easy Indian appetiser at home
Bring the vibrant flavours of India to your table with minimal effort. These paneer tikka skewers make a visually striking and tasty starter that is ideal for entertaining guests, a casual gathering, or dinner with friends or family. The combination of colourful vegetables and golden paneer makes it look as exciting as it tastes, while the aromatic spices and fresh herbs give it an authentic Indian touch. It is a simple way to serve a sophisticated, flavour-packed appetiser without spending hours in the kitchen.
Serve with a fresh mint dressing
The cool, herbaceous mint dressing is the best complement to these warm, spiced skewers. Creamy Greek yogurt forms a smooth base, while fresh mint adds a bright, refreshing lift that balances the richness of the paneer. A touch of garlic and a squeeze of lime juice give the dressing subtle warmth and tang, enhancing the smoky, spiced flavours of the marinade. Drizzle it over the skewers or serve it on the side for dipping to give every bite a harmonious mix of spice, creaminess, and freshness.
Customise paneer tikka with these ideas
Try a few simple tweaks to nudge your paneer tikka recipe in a fresh, new direction. Add vegetables such as baby corn, mushrooms, aubergine, or courgette, or play around with some additional warm spices. For example, give the marinade a vivid red glow without adding too much heat with a bit of Kashmiri chilli powder, or add a spoonful of roasted besan to help the marinade cling better to every piece. If you want brighter, tangier layers, finish with a touch of chaat masala.
Switch up the richness by using mustard oil instead of regular oil to lend a bold North Indian character and a hint of smokiness, or try ghee, which delivers deeper browning and aroma.
Go traditional in your cooking methods, using a tandoor or another type of clay oven for a smoky authenticity, a grill or indoor grill for a quick caramelisation, or an air fryer that makes everything crisp with minimal effort.
