Chicken Tikka Salad

This Chicken Tikka Salad is a flavorful and healthy dish, combining tender chicken marinated in tikka spices with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick meal or a light lunch!

Chicken Tikka Salad is a vibrant and delicious fusion dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken marinated in aromatic tikka spices, grilled to perfection, and paired with a medley of fresh, crisp vegetables.

The tangy, creamy dressing complements the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious balance of spice and freshness. This salad is not only a satisfying and healthy option for lunch or dinner, but it’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for meal prep or an impressive dish to serve at gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a lighter meal or a way to spice up your usual salad routine, this Chicken Tikka Salad is a must-try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• The chicken is marinated in aromatic tikka spices, delivering bold and irresistible flavor.
• It’s a healthy and satisfying dish, packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein.
• The creamy, tangy dressing perfectly balances the spice, making every bite enjoyable.
• It’s a versatile recipe, great for lunch, dinner, or meal prep throughout the week.
• This salad is a unique twist on traditional salads, bringing in Indian-inspired flavors.
• It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to fit your dietary preferences.

If you love easy air fryer salad recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Spinach Strawberry Salad, Chick Fil A Carrot and Raisin Salad, or Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad.

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken: Cooked to perfection, bringing a smoky flavor to the salad.
• Yogurt: Adds a rich base to the marinade, enhancing the chicken’s tenderness.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth and savory kick to the marinade and dressing.
• Ginger: Brings a warm, slightly spicy note that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors, balancing the richness of the yogurt.
• Spices: A blend of cumin, coriander, paprika, and garam masala.
• Fresh Vegetables: Crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
• Red Onion: Add a zesty crunch and mild sharpness to the salad.
• Cilantro: Brings a burst of herbal freshness that ties the flavors together.
• Dressing: A creamy yogurt-based dressing with lemon and spices enhances the salad with extra richness and flavor.

How To Make Chicken Tikka Salad

Step One: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with a mixture of yogurt, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).

Step Two: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set cook time for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step Three: While the chicken cooks, assemble your salad with fresh greens, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and any other desired vegetables.

Step Four: Once the chicken is cooked, slice it into bite-sized pieces and place it on top of the salad. For extra flavor, drizzle with a yogurt-based dressing or your favorite dressing. Enjoy!

Chicken Tikka Salad Recipe Tips

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a more intense flavor.
• Air Fryer Tip: Make sure the chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crispiness.
• Add Fresh Veggies: Toss the salad with fresh, crisp vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions to balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Customize Your Dressing: Try a creamy yogurt-based dressing or a tangy lemon dressing to complement the spiced chicken.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to your preferred spice level for a milder or hotter taste.
• Add Crunch: For extra texture, consider adding nuts like almonds or cashews to the salad.

Storing

• Storing: Store any leftover Chicken Tikka Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to separate the dressing and chicken if possible, to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the Chicken Tikka Salad.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

What To Serve With Chicken Tikka With Salad

When serving Chicken Tikka with Salad, it’s great to pair it with a few complementary sides that balance out the spices and enhance the overall flavor. Naan bread is always a favorite, offering a soft and pillowy texture to scoop up the chicken and any remaining sauce. A refreshing cucumber raita adds a cooling contrast to the spiciness of the tikka, while steamed basmati rice or a fragrant pilaf provides a simple yet satisfying base. For extra flavor, grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini bring a smoky element, and a side of tangy mint chutney adds a vibrant burst of freshness.

Chicken Tikka With Salad Recipe Faqs

Can I make Chicken Tikka ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight to enhance the flavors. You can also cook the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating it before serving.

Can I use a different type of protein for this recipe? Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu, paneer, or even fish, depending on your preferences or dietary needs.

How can I make the Chicken Tikka Salad spicier? To increase the heat, you can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even fresh chopped green chilies to the marinade. Adjust according to your desired spice level.

Is Chicken Tikka Salad suitable for a low-carb diet? Yes! The Chicken Tikka itself is low in carbs, and when paired with a simple salad, it makes a great low-carb, high-protein meal. Skip or reduce any carb-heavy sides like naan if you’re following a low-carb plan.

Can I make the Chicken Tikka Salad in the oven instead of the air fryer? Yes, you can cook the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, flipping halfway through for an even crisp.

How can I add more veggies to the salad? You can add additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes, red onions, bell peppers, cucumbers, or even roasted cauliflower for more texture and flavor in the salad.

Can I make Chicken Tikka Salad without yogurt? Yes, if you’re dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, like coconut yogurt or almond milk-based yogurt, to create a similar creamy texture for the marinade.

More Easy Recipes

• Air Fryer Sausage
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• Easy Air Fryer Frozen Italian Sausage
• Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes
• Air Fryer Steak Bites

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