Tikka Dajaj

Name: Tikka Dajaj
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Bahraini
Ingredients: 1 kg chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup yogurt; 3 cloves garlic, grated; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 2 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; Salt to taste

تكة دجاج (TIK-kah dah-JAHJ)

Bahraini Chicken Tikka

⏱ Prep Time 30 min + marinating

📈 Difficulty Easy

👥 Servings

🔥 Calories 364 kcal

Succulent chunks of chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of yogurt, turmeric, and Gulf spices, grilled over charcoal until charred and juicy. Bahrain's beloved street food showcases the island's Indian-Gulf fusion heritage.

Nutrition & Info

Protein 40.0g

Carbs 6.0g

Fat 20.0g

Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

metal skewers charcoal grill or oven mixing bowl

Presentation Guide

Vessel: metal platter

Garnishes: lemon wedges, sliced onions, mint

Accompaniments: flatbread, garlic sauce, pickles

Ingredients

1 kg chicken breast, cubed
1 cup yogurt
3 cloves garlic, grated
1 tbsp ginger, grated
2 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt to taste

Instructions

1
Combine yogurt with garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne, lemon juice, oil, and salt in a bowl.
2
Cut chicken into 3cm cubes and add to the marinade. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
3
Thread marinated chicken onto metal skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
4
Grill over hot charcoal or under a broiler for 6-7 minutes per side until charred on edges and cooked through.
5
Let rest for 2 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
6
Serve on a platter with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and warm flatbread alongside.

💡

Did You Know?

Bahrain's famous tikka restaurants along the Gudaibiya strip have been serving the same recipes for over 50 years to loyal multi-generational customers.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

metal skewers
charcoal grill or oven
mixing bowl

Garnishing

lemon wedges, sliced onions, mint

Accompaniments

flatbread, garlic sauce, pickles

The Story Behind Tikka Dajaj

Bahraini chicken tikka reflects the deep culinary bridge between the Gulf and the Indian subcontinent, built by centuries of trade, migration, and shared culture. Indian workers brought tikka traditions to Bahrain's shores, and local cooks adapted them with Gulf spice preferences. The result is a uniquely Bahraini street food culture centered on small tikka shops that serve as communal gathering places, especially during warm evenings.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed dinner, street food, barbecue 📜 Origins: Indian-Gulf fusion

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