Achari Chicken Tikka with Homemade Achari Masala is a delightful and flavorful Indian dish that combines tender pieces of chicken marinated in a spicy and tangy pickle-inspired masala. It’s a popular appetizer or main course that’s perfect for those who enjoy bold and zesty flavors. Here’s a description of how to make Achari Chicken Tikka with Homemade Achari Masala:
Ingredients:
To make Achari Chicken Tikka with Homemade Achari Masala, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
For the Achari Masala:
Fenugreek Seeds (Methi): These seeds provide a slightly bitter and nutty flavor to the masala.
Mustard Seeds: Yellow or brown mustard seeds add pungency and depth to the masala.
Nigella Seeds (Kalonji): These small black seeds contribute earthy and slightly peppery notes.
Fennel Seeds: Fennel seeds provide a hint of licorice-like sweetness.
Cumin Seeds: Cumin seeds offer a warm and earthy flavor.
Coriander Seeds: Coriander seeds add citrusy and herbal notes.
Red Chili Powder: For heat and color.
Turmeric Powder: Adds a golden hue and earthy flavor.
Salt: For seasoning.
For the Chicken Tikka:
Chicken: Boneless chicken pieces, such as chicken breast or thigh, are commonly used.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt serves as the base of the marinade, tenderizing the chicken and adding creaminess.
Ginger-Garlic Paste: A paste made from fresh ginger and garlic adds depth and aroma.
Homemade Achari Masala: The spice blend you’ve prepared.
Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds acidity and a touch of tanginess.
Salt: For seasoning.
Oil: A neutral oil, such as vegetable oil, is used for grilling or roasting.
Preparation:
Here’s how to prepare Achari Chicken Tikka with Homemade Achari Masala:
For the Achari Masala:
In a dry skillet, roast fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, nigella seeds, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn them.
Allow the roasted seeds to cool, then grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
Mix in red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to create your homemade Achari Masala. Store any extra masala in an airtight container for future use.
For the Chicken Tikka:
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, homemade Achari Masala, lemon juice, and salt to create the marinade.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
Preheat your grill or oven to high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers or place them on a grill rack.
Grill or roast the chicken until it’s fully cooked, slightly charred, and has a smoky flavor. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the cooking method and the size of the chicken pieces.
Serve the Achari Chicken Tikka hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves and lemon wedges. It’s often enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice.
Flavor Profile:
Achari Chicken Tikka with Homemade Achari Masala offers a bold and complex flavor profile. The homemade Achari Masala combines the earthy, bitter, and peppery notes of the various seeds with the warmth of spices like chili and turmeric. The yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken and balances the spiciness with creaminess, while the grilling or roasting process adds a smoky depth.
Serving Suggestions:
Achari Chicken Tikka is typically served as an appetizer, snack, or as a main course dish with rice or Indian bread like naan or roti. You can accompany it with cooling yogurt-based dips, pickles, or chutneys to contrast the spiciness. It’s a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s popular in Indian cuisine, appreciated for its rich and zesty flavors.
