Tender strips of chicken breast marinated in a cooling yogurt and cashew paste make these Kali Mirchi Chicken Skewers a standout choice for a quick dinner. The combination of freshly cracked black peppercorns, warm garam masala, and a hint of mozzarella creates a velvety coating that clings to the meat, providing a gentle heat balanced by the creaminess of the marinade.
As the skewers roast, the butter baste works with the ginger and garlic notes to develop a charred, aromatic crust. Whether you prepare them in the oven, under the grill, or in a pan on the stovetop, the result is a moist and fragrant bite that leans into traditional spice profiles without being overwhelming.
These skewers work just as well as a casual snack as they do served alongside fresh naan, roti, or a simple onion salad. Because the prep is straightforward and the cook time is short, they are a practical way to pull together an impressive meal when you want something flavorful but low-effort.
Read Full StoryIf you love the bold, peppery heat of these skewers, you might enjoy exploring other ways to prepare poultry on the grill. For a lighter, zestier profile, try our herbed Mediterranean-style chicken, which uses fresh aromatics instead of dry spices. Alternatively, if you prefer something with a richer, creamier marinade that mellows the flame-grilled char, our velvety malai tikka offers a perfect contrast to the intense black pepper in this recipe.
Key Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breast: The primary protein cut into strips to be marinated and grilled on skewers.
- Black pepper: Provides the essential spicy kick that defines the signature kali mirchi flavor profile.
- Yogurt: Forms the base of the marinade to tenderize the chicken and add a creamy tang.
- Cashew paste: Adds richness and a thick, velvety texture to the spiced chicken marinade.
- Mozzarella cheese: Blends into the marinade to create a gooey, melty coating on the chicken pieces.
- Garam masala: Provides the warm, aromatic blend of traditional spices necessary for the dish's depth.
- Butter: Used in the sauce to baste the skewers for a moist and glossy finish.
More Grilled Chicken Inspiration
- Classic chicken tikka skewers provide the foundational technique for marinating and grilling bite-sized pieces to perfection.
- Sticky BBQ chicken skewers are a great choice if you are looking to balance savory spices with a touch of sweetness and a caramelized glaze.
- Traditional tandoori chicken skewers offer a vibrant, spice-forward experience that complements the deep, earthy notes of our kali mirchi version.
Curated by Aprilia Wanson in Austin, TX — I research and organize easy recipes so you can cook with what you have. More about how I create content →