The Rainbow Chicken Tikka reimagines the traditional chicken tikka with a playful and colorful twist. This dish combines the tender, succulent texture of perfectly marinated chicken with the bold, aromatic flavors of a variety of spices and the tangy freshness of yogurt. The addition of edible food coloring transforms this familiar dish into a visually stunning feast that promises not only to delight the palate but also to enchant the eyes. As the colors of the rainbow come alive on your plate, the mild spice levels make it a universally loved dish, perfect for gatherings where both children and adults can enjoy a taste of culinary magic.

Ingredients

Serving Size: Serves 4

From Your Pantry

• 2 cups plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet)

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• 2 pounds boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, olive oil, garlic paste, ginger paste, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt to create the marinade.
2. Divide the marinade into seven smaller bowls. Add a few drops of a different food coloring to each bowl to create the rainbow colors.
3. Add an equal amount of chicken pieces to each bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). If using an oven, line a baking tray with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
5. Skewer the chicken pieces onto bamboo or metal skewers, keeping each color separate. If using bamboo skewers, ensure they are soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
6. Grill or bake for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a slight char on the edges.
7. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter in the order of the rainbow colors. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.

Expert Tips

• For an even more pronounced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add chili powder or paprika to the marinade.
• Ensure to use food-grade, edible food coloring for safety.

Serving Suggestions

Accompany the Rainbow Chicken Tikka with fluffy naan bread, a side of cucumber raita to cool the palate, and a fresh green salad. This colorful dish is perfect for special occasions, adding a festive touch to your table and making dining a delightful experience for guests of all ages.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Allergens: Dairy, Chicken

This Rainbow Chicken Tikka recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Its visual appeal and delectable flavors make it a perfect dish for entertaining or adding a splash of color to your dinner table. Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to experiment with different spices or accompaniments to make it uniquely yours. Cooking is an art and a journey—enjoy every colorful step of the way.