Bahraini Chicken Tikka with Black Lemon
Tender chicken pieces marinated in a zesty blend of spices and the unique tang of black lemon, grilled to perfection. This dish is a popular street food and appetizer in Bahrain, often served with flatbread and a spicy mint sauce.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tsp Black lemon powder
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1.5 tsp Baharat spice blend
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.25 cup Fresh mint(chopped, for sauce)
- 0.5 cup Yogurt(plain, for sauce)
- 1 small Chili(finely chopped, for sauce (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine chicken cubes with black lemon powder, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, baharat, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
💡 Tip: Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-3 hours (or overnight) in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. - 2
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the mint sauce (if using). In a small bowl, mix chopped fresh mint, plain yogurt, and finely chopped chili (if using). Stir well and set aside.
💡 Tip: Adjust chili to your preferred spice level. - 3
Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
💡 Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. - 4
Grill or broil the chicken skewers for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
⏱️ 12-15 minutes💡 Tip: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - 5
Serve the Bahraini Chicken Tikka hot, with the mint sauce on the side. It pairs well with flatbread, rice, or a fresh salad.
💡 Tip: Garnish with extra chopped mint or a sprinkle of black lemon powder if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Black lemon (loomi) can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online. If you can't find powder, you can grind whole dried black lemons.
- ✓Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
- ✓For a smoky flavor, use charcoal grilling.
🔄 Variations
- Use lamb or beef cubes instead of chicken.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skewers with the chicken.