Marinated cubes of firm paneer and crisp bell peppers meet the open flame in this stovetop-friendly Tandoori Paneer Tikka. By soaking the cheese in a spiced yogurt and gram flour base, the exterior gains a delicate, charred crust that gives way to a soft, creamy center. The aromatic ginger-garlic paste and hit of chilli oil provide just enough heat to cut through the richness of the dairy.
Once the skewers have picked up a smoky, barbecue-style finish on the grill, a finishing drizzle of double cream, melted butter, and a final dusting of chaat masala brings everything together. The result is a contrast of textures—tender paneer, snappy vegetables, and a silky, buttery glaze that feels indulgent yet satisfyingly simple to pull together for a weeknight dinner.
Serve these skewers as a vibrant appetizer or pair them with warm naan and a side of fresh onions for a more substantial meal. The combination of toasted spices and fresh coriander makes this a staple for those who want that authentic restaurant-style char without needing an outdoor grill.
Read Full StoryOnce you have mastered this smoky paneer preparation, there are plenty of creative ways to repurpose your leftovers. For a quick lunch, try tucking the charred cubes into these spiced paneer tikka pittas for a satisfying, handheld meal. If you are looking for a more fusion-forward dinner, these pillowy paneer tikka bao buns provide an excellent textural contrast to the firm cheese and crunchy bell peppers.
Key Ingredients
- Paneer: Cubed firm cottage cheese acts as the main protein base for these grilled skewers.
- Yogurt: Forms the creamy, tangy foundation of the marinade that tenderizes the paneer.
- Gram flour: Helps bind the spiced marinade to the paneer and vegetables for a consistent crust.
- Garam masala: Provides the essential warm, aromatic spice profile typical of tandoori dishes.
- Chaat masala: Adds a zesty, tangy finish when sprinkled over the finished charred skewers.
- Ginger & garlic paste: Infuses the marinade with pungent, earthy aromatics central to the dish's identity.
- Bell peppers: Colorful green and red peppers add a crisp texture to the skewers during grilling.
More Ways to Enjoy Paneer
- If you are short on time, this speedy 15-minute preparation uses the same bold marinade for weeknight dinners.
- For a hands-off approach that keeps the kitchen cool, try this crispy air-fried version that develops a fantastic crust.
- If you prefer a bolder, saucier dish, this perfected chilli paneer recipe leans into Indo-Chinese flavors with a savory, spicy glaze.
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