The journey of our Chicken Tikka begins long before the tandoor is lit. The secret to a piece of chicken that is flavorful right to the center—rather than just on the surface—is our rigorous marination process.

At Mumbai Square, we don’t believe in shortcuts. We use a double-marination technique that ensures the meat is both tenderized and deeply seasoned:

1. The First Infusion: We start with succulent, hand-cut pieces of premium chicken breast. The first marinade consists of fresh lemon juice, sea salt, and a hint of ginger-garlic paste. This sharp, acidic rub breaks down the fibers of the meat, ensuring that every bite is “melt-in-your-mouth” soft.
2. The Signature Blend: After the first stage, the chicken is bathed in a rich, velvety mixture of thick Greek-style yogurt and our house-secret Tandoori Masala. This blend features a symphony of hand-ground spices, including toasted cumin, aromatic coriander, and smoked paprika.
3. The Color of Tradition: We achieve our vibrant, appetizing glow using Kashmiri chilies. These special chilies provide that iconic deep-red hue and a gentle, manageable warmth without the aggressive “burn” of standard chili powder.

The chicken is left to rest for at least 12 to 24 hours, allowing the enzymes in the yogurt to further tenderize the meat while the spices permeate deep into every fiber.

The Magic of the Clay Tandoor

Once the marination is complete, the stage is set for the transformation. At Mumbai Square, our traditional clay tandoor is the heart of our kitchen. Operating at temperatures that can exceed 480°C (900°F), the tandoor provides a cooking environment that no modern oven can replicate.

When our chefs skewer the marinated chicken and lower it into the glowing heat, two things happen simultaneously:

• The Instant Sear: The intense, dry heat sears the outside of the chicken instantly. This creates a flavor-packed, slightly charred crust that locks in all the natural juices.
• The Smoky Essence: As the juices and yogurt marinade drip onto the white-hot coals at the bottom of the tandoor, they create a cloud of aromatic smoke. This smoke wafts back up, seasoning the meat with that unmistakable “char-grilled” depth that defines authentic Chicken Tikka.

The result is a contrast of textures: a smoky, spiced exterior with beautiful charred edges, and an interior that is incredibly moist, succulent, and tender.

A Sensory Journey in Our Stylish Setting

When your order of Chicken Tikka arrives at your table, it is a feast for all five senses. Served on a sizzling platter and garnished with fresh lemon wedges and crisp garden salad, the aroma is the first thing that hits you—a tantalizing mix of wood-smoke and toasted spices.

Whether you are enjoying a quick business lunch or a relaxed dinner in our beautiful mezzanine seating, the Chicken Tikka provides a “stomach-fulfilling” and deeply satisfying experience. It is the kind of dish that is savory, addictive, and perfect for those who appreciate honest, well-prepared food.

The Perfect Pairings

While our Chicken Tikka is a masterpiece on its own, we recommend elevating your meal with these traditional accompaniments:

• Fresh Garlic Naan: There is nothing quite like wrapping a piece of smoky chicken in a warm, buttery, tandoor-baked naan.
• Cooling Mint Chutney: The herbal freshness of our cilantro and mint dip provides a sharp, refreshing contrast to the warmth of the tandoori spices.
• Pilau Rice: If you prefer a lighter side, our fragrant, saffron-infused rice provides a delicate floral balance to the bold char of the chicken.

Visit Mumbai Square Today

In a city that never stops moving, we invite you to take a moment to savor the tradition. Our Chicken Tikka is a tribute to the heritage of Indian cooking, refined for the modern London palate.

Conveniently located in Aldgate, near Liverpool Street, Mumbai Square is your destination for the best Indian flavors in East London. Come and discover why our patrons return time and time again for the smoky, succulent magic of our tandoor.

[Book Your Table at Mumbai Square Now]