Chicken tikka is marinated in spiced yoghurt then cooked hot and fast for a smoky char — exactly what the air fryer does best. High in protein and full of flavour. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How long does chicken tikka take in an air fryer?
A: Air fry marinated chicken tikka at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, turning once, to an internal 74°C.
Q: What's the marinade?
A: Yoghurt with tikka spice, garlic, ginger and lemon — it tenderises and chars beautifully.
Times & temperatures
| Cut | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Breast chunks | 200°C / 400°F | 12–15 min |
| Thigh chunks | 200°C / 400°F | 14–16 min |
The recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Tikka
Ingredients
- 600g chicken, in chunks
- 150g natural yoghurt
- 2 tbsp tikka spice, garlic, ginger
- Lemon juice, salt
Method
- Marinate the chicken 30 minutes (or longer).
- Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes.
- Turn once for an even char.
- Serve with rice, salad or wraps.
Tips
- Marinate longer for deeper flavour — overnight is ideal.
- Don't overcrowd so the chunks char, not steam.
- Serve with paneer tikka for a mixed grill.
Frequently asked questions
How long does chicken tikka take in an air fryer?
About 12–15 minutes at 200°C, turning once, to an internal 74°C. Thigh chunks take a couple of minutes longer.
What is chicken tikka marinated in?
Natural yoghurt with tikka spices, garlic, ginger and lemon. The yoghurt tenderises the chicken and helps it char.
Can you cook chicken tikka without skewers?
Yes — cook the marinated chunks loose in a single layer. Skewers are optional and mainly for presentation.