Crispy Chicken Tikka Bowls with Mint Sauce

Crispy Chicken Tikka Bowls with Mint Sauce are a bold and colorful fusion of Indian-inspired flavors layered into one irresistible bowl. Featuring spiced, oven-crisped chicken tikka, vibrant veggies, fluffy rice, and a cool, creamy mint sauce, these bowls are as satisfying as they are stunning. Perfect for meal prep or a flavorful dinner, each bite is a perfect balance of heat, crunch, and freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor – Smoky, spiced chicken tikka with a zesty, herby sauce.
• Textural Contrast – Crispy chicken, fluffy rice, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing.
• Customizable Bowls – Build your own with your favorite grains, greens, and toppings.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make components ahead and assemble fresh throughout the week.
• Better Than Takeout – Healthier, homemade, and totally delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Tikka:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Greek yogurt
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Lemon juice
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Garam masala
• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt
• Olive oil

For the Mint Sauce:

• Fresh mint leaves
• Fresh cilantro
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Garlic clove
• Green chili (optional)
• Salt
• Water (to thin, if needed)

For the Bowls:

• Cooked basmati rice or brown rice
• Shredded lettuce or spinach
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, diced
• Pickled onions (optional)
• Naan crisps or pita chips (for crunch)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken – In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and all spices. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
2. Cook the Chicken – Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken on a baking rack or lined sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes until crispy and cooked through. Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra char.
3. Make the Mint Sauce – Blend mint, cilantro, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, chili, and salt until smooth. Thin with water as needed.
4. Prepare the Bowl Base – Layer bowls with rice and greens.
5. Assemble the Bowls – Top with sliced chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickled onions, and naan crisps.
6. Drizzle & Serve – Finish with a generous drizzle of mint sauce and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating)

Variations

• Low Carb – Swap rice for cauliflower rice or more greens.
• Vegan Version – Use crispy tofu or chickpeas with the same tikka marinade (using plant-based yogurt).
• Grain Options – Try quinoa, bulgur, or even noodles instead of rice.
• Spicy Kick – Add sriracha or chili oil on top.
• Cheesy Twist – Crumble paneer or feta over the bowl for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep texture.
• Mint Sauce: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; stir before using.

FAQs

What is chicken tikka made of?

It’s chicken marinated in spiced yogurt and then grilled or roasted until juicy and slightly charred.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes! Grilling adds extra smoky flavor and is traditional for tikka.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat, but you can adjust the cayenne and green chili to your taste.

Can I use store-bought mint chutney?

Yes, though homemade mint sauce has fresher, creamier flavor perfect for bowls.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Boneless thighs are juicier and crisp up better, but breasts also work well.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely—cook the chicken and prepare the veggies ahead, then assemble when ready.

What can I substitute for yogurt in the marinade?

Coconut milk or a plant-based yogurt alternative works well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—use a dairy-free yogurt in both the marinade and mint sauce.

How do I get extra crispy chicken?

Use a wire rack for roasting, and broil at the end for crispy edges.

Are the bowls served hot or cold?

Serve the chicken hot over room-temperature or chilled ingredients for contrast.

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Tikka Bowls with Mint Sauce bring together spice, crunch, creaminess, and freshness in one epic bowl. They’re easy to prep, fun to build, and even better to eat. Whether you’re after a weeknight dinner or a meal prep winner, these bowls check all the boxes for flavor, balance, and satisfaction. Try them once, and they’ll be in your rotation forever.

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