Cheese Stuffed Tikka Recipe - Indian Appetizer with Cheese

Juicy, flavorful, and filled with ooey-gooey cheese—this Cheese Stuffed Tikka combines the bold spices of Indian cuisine with the indulgent bite of creamy cheese. Perfect for Indian food lovers, home cooks, and foodies alike, this recipe will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Whether you're preparing it as an appetizer for guests or as a special treat for yourself, it's easy to make and absolutely irresistible. Let's get cooking!

What You'll Learn

This guide will take you through the process of making the perfect Cheese Stuffed Tikka. Expect to learn about the key ingredients, marination techniques, and foolproof grilling tips so you can recreate restaurant-quality tikkas in the comfort of your home.

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What is Cheese Stuffed Tikka?

Cheese Stuffed Tikka is an innovative twist on the classic Indian tikka. Tikka refers to marinated chunks of meat or vegetables that are cooked in a tandoor or grill. This recipe elevates the concept by stuffing the tikka fillings—paneer, chicken, or veggies—with melted cheese that oozes out with every bite. It's the ultimate combination of spice and decadence!

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Ingredients You'll Need

Here's your grocery list for this mouthwatering dish. The recipe serves 4 people.

For the Tikka Filling:

• Paneer/Chicken/Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, mushrooms) - 500g
• Mozzarella Cheese (grated) - 150g
• Chaat Masala - 1 tsp
• Coriander Leaves (chopped) - 2 tbsp

For the Marinade:

• Greek Yogurt or Hung Curd - 1/2 cup
• Ginger-Garlic Paste - 2 tbsp
• Red Chili Powder - 1 tsp
• Turmeric Powder - 1/2 tsp
• Coriander Powder - 1 tsp
• Garam Masala - 1 tsp
• Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves) - 1 tsp
• Lemon Juice - 1 tbsp
• Mustard Oil - 2 tbsp
• Salt - to taste

For Grilling:

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Butter (melted) - for basting

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheese Stuffed Tikka

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• If you're using paneer, cut it evenly into 2-inch cubes.
• If using chicken, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Vegetables should also be sliced into similar-sized chunks for even cooking.
• Take each piece and carve a small slit into the center (large enough to stuff cheese). Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

• In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, kauri meth, lemon juice, mustard oil, and salt.
• Whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Stuff the Cheese

• Take the grated mozzarella cheese, mix it with chopped coriander leaves and a pinch of chaat masala.
• Carefully stuff a small amount of the seasoned cheese mixture into the slit of each cube or piece. Be gentle to avoid damaging the edges. Secure with toothpicks if needed.

Step 4: Marinate the Tikkas

• Dunk the stuffed pieces into the marinade. Use your hands (wear gloves if you prefer) to coat each piece evenly.
• Cover the bowl and allow the tikkas to marinate for at least 1 hour. For deeper flavors, refrigerate for up to 6 hours.

Step 5: Skewer & Grill

• Thread the marinated pieces onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers, onions, and other veggies for added color and flavor.
• Preheat your grill, oven, or stovetop griddle. Place the skewers on the heat source.
• Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes, basting occasionally with melted butter to keep them moist and enhance the smokey flavor. Cook until the edges are slightly charred.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

• Carefully remove the tikkas from the skewers and plate them. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of chaat masala and chopped coriander.
• Serve hot alongside a green chutney or tangy mint dip for a match made in heaven.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Tikka

1. Prevent Cheese Leaks

• • • Make precise and narrow slits to keep the cheese secure while cooking. Don’t overfill the cubes with cheese.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

• • • The freshness of paneer, chicken, or vegetables will make a big difference in flavor and texture.

3. Control the Heat

• • • Grill on medium heat. High heat may cause the outer layer to burn before cooking the inside thoroughly.

4. Add a Smoked Touch

• • • After grilling, place a hot coal in a small bowl and set it inside the serving dish with the tikkas. Cover tightly for 5 minutes for a restaurant-style smokey aroma.

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Why You’ll Love Cheese Stuffed Tikka

This recipe isn’t just another tikka—it’s a crowd-pleaser that will elevate your next dinner party or family gathering. The creamy molten cheese complements the spicy marinade for an irresistible blend of flavors. Plus, it's entirely customizable—mix and match stuffing and base ingredients to suit your preferences.

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Add Cheese Stuffed Tikka to Your Kitchen Must-Try List Today!

Whether you’re hosting a barbeque or craving Indian flavors with a twist, this Cheese Stuffed Tikka recipe will be your go-to dish. Try it out and amaze your family and friends with your cooking skills. Don’t forget to pair it with naan or aromatic biryani for an unforgettable meal!

Love discovering new recipes like this? Check out more of our flavorful Indian-inspired dishes on our blog.

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