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    Profusion Curry » Air Fryer Recipes

    Paneer Tikka Air Fryer

    Published: Jan 11, 2022 · Modified: Jul 19, 2022 by Prajakta Sukhatme · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian Barbecue Paneer Recipe. Make restaurant style Paneer Tikka in an air fryer, oven, stovetop, or outdoor grill using my easy recipe. Chunks of marinated paneer ( Indian cottage cheese), colorful sweet peppers, and onions grilled or air fried to perfection ! Use it as an appetizer or delicious main meal.

    Pinterest image with text overlay for paneer tikka which is Indian Cheese Kabab recipe with instructions to make it using air fryer , oven or grill.
    Jump to:
    • Low carb – Keto Friendly Indian Food
    • Paneer Recipes
    • Party Appetizer
    • A note on cooking time
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Air Fryer Paneer Tikka
    • Ingredients
    • Detailed Instructions
    • How to Make Paneer Tikka in Air Fryer
    • Grilling Paneer Tikka on Outdoor or Stovetop Grill
    • Making Paneer Tikka in Oven
    • Pro Tips
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Paneer Tikka Air Fryer

    Low carb – Keto Friendly Indian Food

    Paneer is a versatile Indian non melting cheese that can be used in multiple ways to make low carb satisfying meals.

    It is a great vegetarian protein + calcium source for non meat eaters. Paired with colorful veggies, this tikka recipe makes a wholesome and balanced meal.  Each serving of this tikka is 10 gm of carbs and 18gm of plant protein.

    Paneer Recipes

    Besides this paneer tikka recipe, we also love Shahi Paneer, Butter Paneer or Paneer Makhani, Paneer Jalfrezi and Palak Paneer. All these are wonderful Indian curry recipes.

    Traditionally, paneer tikka is cooked in a tandoor oven. My EASY recipe imparts classic authentic North Indian Tikka flavors while using modern cooking techniques.

    Make restaurant-style Paneer Tikka Skewers with three simple and easy cooking methods that use air fryer,  grill or oven to make this scrumptious recipe.

    Paneer Tikka which is Indian cottage cheese kabab made in air fryer and on the grill. It is served with several garnishes and chutney dip.

    Party Appetizer

    Kabob skewers are absolutely loved when served at parties as an appetizer ( called starters). For more Indian party appetizer recipes try Kutchi Dabeli, Paneer Tacos, Masala Papad and Mushroom Pastry Puffs.

    A note on cooking time

    Even though this recipe shows 45 minutes or more for cooking time, I want to point out that actual cooking time is only 10-15 minutes.  Rest of the time is to marinate the paneer which is totally hands-off.

    While the paneer is marinating, you can do multiple other things. I usually soak the skewers, prepare rice and do other meal prepping.

    You can also marinate the paneer up to a day in advance.  The longer it marinates, the better it tastes. So if you plan it ahead of time,  you save tons of time.

    A black serving plate with three skewers of paneer tikka pieces along with cucumber and chutney served for party appetizer.

    Serving Suggestions

    The recipe makes dry tandoori paneer tikka. I like to serve it with various dips for finger food appetizers. Mint cilantro chutney,  Avocado Cilantro Lime Dip and Greek Tzatziki Sauce are excellent pairings.

    You can also serve it as a hearty vegetarian meal.  Put it over warm naan or steamed basmati rice along with creamy potato salad for a satisfying main course meal.

    You can make an excellent fusion meal out of Grilled Paneer Tikka. Serve it along with a warm comforting bowl of soup like Creamy Tomato Soup or Creamy Mushroom Soup. Or on the bed of a beautiful Fig Arugula Salad or Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad.8

    Air Fryer Paneer Tikka

    Air Fryer is my favorite appliance to make non-fried, no oil Indian food. Recipes like baingan bharta,  Bharvan bhindi ( stuffed okra ) or tindora stir fry come out exceptionally good using an air fryer.

    Air fryer circulates dry hot air while food is cooking. Paneer tikka cooked in an air fryer archives the perfect grill texture and flavors in no time.

    Don’t have an air fryer? No worries! I have included instructions on how to make paneer tikka in the oven or on an outdoor or stovetop grill as well.

    Paneer tikka is Indian barbeque kabab recipe made with marinated cheese, veggies and spices. It is served on skewers for a party appetizer or main meal.

    Ingredients

    Here are the key ingredients and my notes. Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card.

    Paneer– I used store bought Paneer. It is easily available in Indian grocery stores, at Costco and Whole Foods. You can use fresh or frozen paneer to make this recipe. Thaw it completely before using.

    Yogurt – Yogurt makes an excellent marinade base. I prefer Greek yogurt since it’s thick and creamy. You can also use plain full fat yogurt.

    Spices – Garam Masala, Kabab Masala, ginger garlic paste and red chili powder are the main spices I use. Kashmiri chili powder gives a beautiful red color which becomes golden orange when mixed with white yogurt.

    For this recipe, I love to add kabab masala. It adds a great depth of flavor with a smoky earthy taste. Shan Kabab Masala is my favorite. It is available in most Indian and ethnic grocery stores as well as on Amazon.

    Lemon juice, Oil and Salt – Lemon juice helps in tangy taste and softening the paneer. Just a tablespoon of cooking oil gives nice moist texture. Use salt as a tenderizer and as needed.

    Detailed Instructions

    Paneer Marination

    1. Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes, peppers into 1-inch pieces and onion lengthwise and separate the petals.
    2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl add yogurt, lemon juice, ginger garlic paste, turmeric, salt, red chili powder, garam masala, and kabab masala. Mix all the ingredients together to make the marinade.
    3. Add cut paneer, peppers, and onions to the marinade. Mix well so the marinade coats the paneer, peppers and onions well.
    4. Cover the bowl and allow it to marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
    5. If using wooden skewers, soak them in cold water. It prevents them from burning while grilling or air frying.
    6. Carefully thread the marinated paneer, peppers and onions on to the skewers. Leave some space between each piece so it evenly cooks from all angles.
    Process step collage showing how to marinate paneer to make tikka.

    How to Make Paneer Tikka in Air Fryer

    • Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil. Line the skewers inside the air fryer basket. Spray some oil over them.
    • Cook for 5 minutes at 360° Fahrenheit (180° C). Turn the skewers, spray lightly with oil and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
    Process step collage showing four major steps involved in making paneer tikka in air fryer.

    Grilling Paneer Tikka on Outdoor or Stovetop Grill

    • Preheat the grill. Brush the grill with some oil. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning a few times so it chars and cooks well from all angles.
    • Remove from the grill. Serve immediately with chutney and garnishes. Enjoy!

    Making Paneer Tikka in Oven

    • Preheat the oven to 400 Degrees Fahrenheit. Put the skewers on a baking tray. Bake for 10 minutes.
    • Increase the oven temperature to 425 Degrees Fahrenheit and broil the skewers for 3-4 minutes. This gives a nice blackened char on the top.
    • Remove promptly and serve with desired garnishes. Enjoy!
    Several skewers of golden orange grilled kabab filled with paneer, veggies and spices served on ridged plate.

    Pro Tips

    For the best tasting and EASY paneer tikka, follow these easy tips

    • Marinate the paneer for at least 30 minutes or even overnight for deep flavors.
    • Use only full fat or Greek yogurt to marinate the tikka mix. Low fat yogurt will leave the water in marinade and it will not stick to the pieces.
    • Typically bright red tikka at restaurants comes from added red food color. I do not like using food colors. So bright golden orange it is.
    • The longer you marinate, the flavorful and juicy your Paneer Tikka will turn out to be. So I prefer overnight marinade.
    • I used only onion and colorful sweet peppers in the skewers but other sturdy veggies like zucchini,  eggplant,  mushrooms and baby corn also work.
    • Do not thread the pieces on skewers too close. If you do so, the sides that touch the other piece don’t cook properly. Leave some space between each piece so everything cooks well and evenly.
    • Also, do not overcrowd the skewers in the air-fryer basket or while grilling. Leave enough space between each skewer.
    • This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled.
    Three skewers of paneer tikka served with chutney.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How can I get my Paneer tikka as red as they make it in restaurants?

    Most restaurants use red food color to make tikka look bright red. You can use Kashmiri red chili powder to make it red in color.

    Is paneer tikka good for health?

    Paneer is a vegetarian protein + calcium source for non meat eaters. Paired with colorful veggies, this tikka recipe makes a wholesome and balanced meal.  Each serving of this tikka is 10 gm of carbs and 18gm of plant protein.

    Can I use frozen paneer to make Paneer Tikka?

    Yes you can. Make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
    To thaw the paneer simply keep it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also keep it at room temperature or in warm water for an hour.

    What is Paneer Tikka?

    Paneer tikka is a grilled barbeque dish made from chunks of Indian cottage cheese marinated in spices and grilled in a tandoor or firepit. 

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    Paneer tikka is Indian barbeque kabab recipe made with marinated cheese, veggies and spices. It is served on skewers for a party appetizer or main meal.

    Paneer Tikka Air Fryer

    Prajakta Sukhatme
    Learn to make best Tandoori Paneer Tikka using an air fryer, oven or on the grill. This recipe makes restaurant style Punjabi grilled paneer appetizer.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 mins
    Cook Time 10 mins
    Additional Time 30 mins
    Total Time 50 mins
    Course Appetizers
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 6
    Calories 293 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 pound paneer cut into 1-inch cubes – about 4 cups
    • 1 cup sweet bell peppers cut into 1-inch cubes
    • 1 large onion cut into 1-inch cubes

    For Marinade

    • ½ cup plain yogurt – use full fat or Greek yogurt
    • ½ tablespoon ginger paste
    • ½ tablespoon garlic paste
    • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
    • 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder – adjust per taste
    • 1 teaspoon garam masala
    • 1 teaspoon Kabab or Tandoori Masala
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt – adjust per taste
    • 1 lemon juiced

    Useful Kitchen Items

    • BBQ Skewers
    • Air Fryer
    • Stove Top Grill

    Instructions
     

    Prepare and Marinate Paneer and Vegetables

    • Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes and peppers into 1-inch pieces. Slice the onion lengthwise and separate the petals.
    • In a medium-sized mixing bowl add yogurt, lemon juice, ginger garlic paste, turmeric, salt, red chili powder, garam masala, and kabab masala.  Mix all the ingredients together to make the marinade.
    • Add cut paneer, peppers, and onions to the marinade. Mix well so the marinade coats the paneer, peppers and onions well.
    • Cover the bowl and allow it to marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
    • If using wooden skewers, soak them in cold water. It prevents them from burning while grilling or air frying.
    • Carefully thread the marinated paneer, peppers and onions on to the skewers. Leave some space between each piece so it evenly cooks from all angles.

    How to Make Air Fryer Paneer Tikka

    • Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil. Line the skewers inside the air fryer basket. Spray some oil over them.
    • Cook for 5 minutes at 360°F (180° C). Turn the skewers, spray lightly with oil and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.

    Grilling Paneer Tikka on Outdoor or Stove Top Grill

    • Preheat the grill. Brush the grill with some oil. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning a few times so it chars and cooks well from all angles.

    Making Paneer Tikka in the Oven

    • Preheat the oven to 400 Degrees Fahrenheit. Put the skewers on a baking tray. Bake for 10 minutes.
    • Increase the oven temperature to 425 Degrees Fahrenheit and broil the skewers for 3-4 minutes. This gives a nice blackened char on the top.
    • Remove promptly and serve with desired garnishes. Enjoy!

    Notes

    Marinate the paneer for at least 30 minutes or even overnight for deep flavors.
    If using frozen paneer, make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
    To thaw the paneer simply keep it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also keep it at room temperature or in warm water for an hour.
    Use only full fat or Greek yogurt to marinate the tikka mix. Low fat yogurt will leave the water in marinade and it will not stick to the pieces.
    Typically bright red tikka at restaurants comes from added red food color. I do not like using food colors. So bright golden orange it is.
    The longer you marinate, the flavorful and juicy your Paneer Tikka will turn out to be. So I prefer overnight marinade.
    I used only onion and colorful sweet peppers in the skewers but other sturdy veggies like zucchini,  eggplant,  mushrooms and baby corn also work.
    Do not thread the pieces on skewers too close. If you do so, the sides that touch the other piece don't cook properly. Leave some space between each piece so everything cooks well and evenly.
    Also, do not overcrowd the skewers in the air-fryer basket or while grilling.  Leave enough space between each skewer.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1SkewerCalories: 293kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 882mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6g
    Did you make this recipe?Mention @ProfusionCurry or tag #ProfusionCurry!

    More Healthy Air Fryer Recipes

    • Air Fryer Bananas
    • Air Fryer Green Beans
    • Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes
    • Pizzadilla Recipe

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    Filed Under: Air Fryer Recipes, Appetizers, Indian Food, Keto Friendly Low Carb Vegetarian Recipes

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