1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander, salt, and oil or ghee. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and ensure they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or for best results, overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately, sealing in the flavors.
3. Arrange the Chicken:
- If using skewers, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Otherwise, place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Cook:
- Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char on the edges. The exact cooking time may vary based on the air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces.
5. Serve:
- Once cooked, let the chicken tikka rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and a side of yogurt or mint chutney for dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for as long as possible. Overnight marination will infuse the chicken with more depth and richness.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Preheating: Don’t skip preheating your air fryer, as it helps to start the cooking process quickly and efficiently.
- No Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the basket, which can lead to steaming instead of air frying.
This Air Fryer Chicken Tikka recipe is a testament to how traditional flavors can be adapted to fit modern, health-conscious lifestyles without compromising on taste. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy snack, or as a flavorful addition to your party menu. Enjoy the delicious journey!