As much as I love the pre-made spice mixes for things like tikka and biryani, it’s nice to know you can make them on your own, and it also tastes slightly better too! So this past week I wanted to marinate some chicken tikka for the week and have it in the fridge and I decided to make it all from scratch. The simplicity of it makes for a beautiful combination of earthy flavours and just a light touch of freshness brings it all together.

Here’s what you’ll need

1 pound boneless chicken cubes

1 Tblspn yogurt

2 Tblspn lemon juice

1 Tblspn ginger/garlic paste

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp crushed coriander seeds

1/2-1 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2-1 tsp salt

1/4 tsp haldi (turmeric)

Mix all the ingredients together and marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. You can even marinate chicken and freeze it for a busy day, or keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The longer it marinates the more tender and flavourful the chicken ends up!

I use a stove top grill pan and spray it with little olive oil and cook on a medium flame till the chicken is cooked. be careful not to over cook and dry the chicken out. This is great with some naan, or in a wrap.

Make it a main, feature it in sandwiches for the perfect lunch or snack, or add it to a simple dinner to add some flavour!