Description
These Crispy Chicken Tikka Bowls with Mint Sauce are a delightful fusion of Indian flavors and fresh ingredients. Tender, marinated chicken thighs are baked to perfection, served over fragrant basmati rice, and topped with a vibrant mint sauce for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tikka masala paste or 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
For the Mint Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, tikka masala paste, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, coat evenly, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and crispy.
- Make the Mint Sauce: Blend cilantro, mint, yogurt, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice among bowls, top with chicken, lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with mint sauce and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use an air fryer instead of baking.
- Adjust spice levels to taste.
- Serve with warm naan or pita if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 140mg