If you are craving a vibrant fusion of flavors wrapped in a flaky, buttery flatbread, then you are in for a treat with this Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls Recipe. This dish combines tender, spiced chicken tikka with fresh vegetables and creamy yogurt, all enveloped in a warm, golden paratha. It’s a mouthwatering meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack that never fails to impress. Each bite bursts with exotic spices and delightful textures that make this recipe an absolute favorite in my kitchen and soon, hopefully, in yours too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the delicious layers of flavor and texture in your Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls Recipe. From the aromatic spices to the fresh vegetables, everything works together to create a perfect balance.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): The star protein that soaks up all the spices.
- 1/3 cup plain yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for dairy-free): Adds tang and tenderizes the chicken for juicy results.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the marinade with a fresh citrus kick.
- 1 tbsp ground cumin: Ground cumin lends a warm, earthy undertone.
- 1 tbsp ground coriander: Adds a sweet, citrusy flavor crucial to the tikka spice blend.
- 1 tsp turmeric powder: Gives a vibrant golden color and subtle bitterness.
- 1 tsp paprika: Brings smoky depth and a beautiful red hue.
- 1 tsp garam masala: The signature Indian spice mix that adds warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to spice preference): Controls the heat level to your liking.
- 1 tsp ground ginger: Offers a fresh, zesty spice that brightens the marinade.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with pungent, aromatic goodness.
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped: Fresh herbaceous notes essential for authentic flavor.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- 4 paratha flatbreads (store-bought or homemade): Soft, flaky wraps that hold all the fillings snugly.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking the chicken): Keeps the chicken moist and adds a subtle richness while cooking.
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced: Adds crunch and sharpness.
- 1 tomato, thinly sliced: Provides juiciness and freshness.
- 1 cucumber, julienned: Offers crispness and cooling contrast.
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish: Brightens the final presentation and flavor.
- ¼ cup yogurt (for drizzling): Creamy topping that complements the spices beautifully.
- Lemon wedges (optional): For those who crave an extra burst of citrus.
How to Make Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Start by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, chili powder, ground ginger, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and salt in a large bowl. This marinade packs every bit of flavor that will transform your chicken into delicious tikka, tenderizing and infusing it with bold spices.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, add your bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, stirring well to coat every piece thoroughly. Cover the bowl and pop it in your fridge for at least one hour, although letting it marinate overnight really deepens the flavors for that authentic taste we all dream of.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your marinated chicken pieces and cook them for around 7 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken cooked through with a hint of char that brings smoky notes to the dish. If you want to take it further, grilling the chicken adds a fantastic layer of flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Parathas
If you’re short on time, store-bought parathas work wonderfully when cooked as per the package instructions. If you prefer homemade, cook them on a hot griddle until golden and slightly crispy. These flaky parathas are essential as they serve as the perfect vehicle to hold your flavorful chicken tikka.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls
Lay each cooked paratha flat and spoon generous portions of the warm chicken tikka down the center. Layer with thin slices of onion, fresh tomato, crunchy cucumber, and sprinkle with cilantro leaves. A drizzle of yogurt on top followed by a squeeze of lemon juice ties the whole roll together with a creamy, tangy finish.
Step 6: Roll It Up and Serve
Fold in the sides of the paratha and roll it tightly to create a neat, portable wrap. Serve your Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls immediately while they’re warm and fresh, alongside extra yogurt or your favorite chutney for dipping. Get ready to savor a wrap that’s bursting with vibrant, authentic flavors!
How to Serve Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro leaves scattered on top elevate the rolls visually and flavor-wise with their fresh herbal aroma. A light drizzle of yogurt adds creaminess and balances the spices perfectly, while a wedge of lemon on the side invites you to add an extra citrus punch if desired.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, serve these rolls with cooling raita, a crisp salad, or maybe some tangy mango chutney. You can also pair them with a simple cucumber and onion salad dressed in lemon and chaat masala for added zest and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the rolls in half and arranging them on a platter with colorful vegetable sticks and dips. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with a string creates a picnic-friendly look. For a fun twist, serve the chicken tikka filling deconstructed alongside mini parathas for a tapas-style feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the rolls crisp, it’s best to store the chicken separately from the parathas and assemble fresh when ready to eat.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked, marinated chicken tikka separately for up to 3 months. Freeze the parathas too, then thaw both completely before reheating and assembling the rolls. Avoid freezing assembled rolls as the paratha can become soggy when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken tikka gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Warm the parathas on a hot skillet until soft and pliable again before assembling. This ensures the freshest flavor and texture when serving leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread instead of paratha?
Absolutely! While paratha adds a wonderful flaky texture, you can use naan, tortillas, or even a pita for a different twist. Just make sure to warm the bread before assembling to keep it soft and easy to roll.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is moderate and can easily be adjusted by changing the amount of chili powder. If you prefer milder rolls, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, making the marinade ahead of time is great especially if you want the flavors to develop fully. Just combine all the marinade ingredients and refrigerate until you’re ready to add the chicken.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The chicken tikka itself is gluten-free, but traditional parathas contain wheat. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free flatbreads or try making your own gluten-free parathas.
What’s the best way to get that authentic smoky flavor?
Grilling the marinated chicken is the best method to achieve that authentic smoky flavor, but pan-searing also works well if you don’t have access to a grill.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls Recipe is truly a delightful dish that brings the heart of Indian street food right into your kitchen. The combination of spicy, tender chicken with fresh, crisp veggies wrapped in soft, flaky paratha is irresistible. If you love bold flavors and satisfying wraps, this recipe is a must-try—you might just find yourself making it again and again. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a new family favorite!
Print
Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls combine succulent, marinated chicken cooked with aromatic Indian spices, wrapped in warm, flaky paratha flatbreads along with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of yogurt. This flavorful and satisfying roll makes a perfect lunch or dinner option, offering a delicious fusion of textures and vibrant tastes.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/3 cup plain yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for dairy-free)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
For Cooking and Assembly
- 4 paratha flatbreads (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking the chicken)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- ¼ cup yogurt (for drizzling)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, chili powder, ground ginger, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and mix thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight to enhance the flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 7-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. Alternatively, grill the chicken for an authentic smoky flavor.
- Set Aside Cooked Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from heat and set it aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Parathas: If using store-bought parathas, cook them according to the package instructions. For homemade parathas, cook each on a hot griddle until golden brown and fully cooked, ensuring they are soft but slightly crispy.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay a cooked paratha flat on a clean surface. Place a few spoonfuls of the warm chicken tikka in the center of the paratha, followed by fresh sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves.
- Add Yogurt and Lemon: Drizzle a little yogurt over the filling to add creaminess and squeeze some fresh lemon juice on top for brightness and tang.
- Roll Up the Paratha: Fold the sides of the paratha inwards and roll tightly to form a neat wrap, securing all the fillings inside.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Tikka Paratha Rolls immediately while warm, optionally accompanied by extra yogurt or chutney on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible.
- You can adjust the chili powder quantity to match your preferred spice level.
- Grilling the chicken instead of pan-cooking adds a delicious smoky flavor.
- Store-bought parathas save time but homemade ones give a fresher taste and better texture.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be wrapped in foil and reheated gently.
