Make a Thai Cashew Chicken easily with this delicious and low carb Keto Stir Fry recipe. It’s nutty, full of veggies, and so easy you’ll add it to your weekly menu!
What Makes This Keto Stir Fry Recipe So Crave-Worthy?
- One Pan. I hate after-dinner clean-up almost as much as I hate long-winded, overly-complicated recipes. This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is made in a single skillet.
- Fresh Herbs. This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is very similar to a Thai Basil Chicken dish you could order at a Thai restaurant. It’s finished off with fresh basil and cilantro that take it over the edge.
- Low Sugar. Use Splenda instead of brown sugar to make this dish low-sugar. You’ll still get that pinch of sweet without the added sugar content.
- Fast. This cooks up quick and will leave you standing at the stove for less than 20 minutes from start to finish.
Is Fish Sauce Fishy?
If you drank the bottle of fish sauce, then yes. However, as a marinade, when combined with the Sugar or Splenda and garlic, it just provides a nice, balanced umami flavor to the chicken.
Can I Have Soy Sauce On Keto?
Yes, in moderation. If you’re following a strict Keto diet you may want to avoid certain ingredients that may not fit into your macros. However, most brands of soy sauce are naturally low in carbs and are great at adding flavor to your favorite Asian recipes.
Can I Use Sugar Instead of Splenda In Keto Stir Fry?
Of course! But it won’t be keto-friendly. Instead of a single packet of Splenda, you can use one tablespoon of brown sugar. I use Splenda because I follow a Keto way of eating and it helps to make this dish Keto-friendly with that one substitution.
Is Thai Cashew Chicken Keto-Friendly?
Keto Thai Cashew Chicken can absolutely be low-carb friendly when prepared with the right ingredients and a few smart substitutions.
- Splenda. This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is Keto-friendly. As I stated above, the recipe calls for Splenda instead of brown sugar and it cuts down the carb/sugar content without sacrificing flavor.
- Cashews. Keto-friendly nuts include cashews, so this is a great dish that’s high in protein and perfect while following Keto.
- Family-Friendly. This is also a great dish to make for the whole family, even if they’re not eating Keto. Simply serve this with some white rice and you have a complete meal for everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons Oil - Used for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables, helping everything cook quickly and evenly.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts - The main protein; cooks quickly and absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce or soy sauce - Adds savory umami depth and classic Thai flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic - Provides aromatic, savory warmth that builds the dish’s flavor base.
- 1 packet Splenda or 1 tablespoon brown sugar - Balances the savory notes with sweetness, creating the signature sweet-savory Thai profile.
- 1/2 cup Onion - Adds sweetness, texture, and mild bite as it softens during cooking.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers - Adds crunch, color, and natural sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt - Seasons the dish and enhances all other flavors.
- 1/2 cup Cashews - Adds buttery crunch and nutty flavor, a key element of Thai cashew chicken.
- 1/2 cup Chopped Green Scallions - Adds fresh oniony brightness and color.
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro and chopped basil - Brings fresh, herbal, aromatic notes typical in Thai cuisine.
- 1 Egg - Can be scrambled into the dish to add richness and extra protein.
How To Make Thai Cashew Chicken
- Marinate. Marinate the chicken with fish sauce, garlic, and Splenda.
- Chicken. Add oil to a hot pan and cook the chicken on high heat.
- Veggies. When it is cooked, add onions and sauté. Leave them crisp and add peppers, salt, and cashews.
- Egg. Push everything to the side. Add a little oil if needed and crack an egg in the middle. Allow the whites to set and then flip it over. Once it is cooked, slash it into ribbons with your spatula and mix into the chicken.
- Finish. Add green onions, cilantro, and basil, and serve.
Tips and Tricks for Making Keto Stir Fry
Making Thai Cashew Chicken keto-friendly is easy with a few smart swaps and techniques that keep all the bold Thai flavor while lowering the carbs.
- Egg. Don’t burn the egg. Add a little oil to the pan before cooking it if you think the pan needs it.
- Onions. Leave them crispy to maintain the proper texture for this Thai Cashew Chicken recipe. Don’t overcook them.
- Sugar. Sub the packet of Splenda for a tablespoon of brown sugar if you wish.
- Keto. This dish is Keto-friendly, but you can serve it with rice for your non-Keto family members.
- Use a good nonstick pan . I love this Mealthy nonstick pan because its heavy, inexpensive, and utterly nonstick.
Variations
Keto Thai Cashew Chicken is wonderfully flexible, and with a few smart swaps, you can create different versions that stay flavorful, satisfying, and low in carbs.
- Keto Coconut Cashew Chicken - Add ¼ cup canned coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, rich variation that stays keto-friendly.
- Keto Cashew Chicken with Zoodles - Swap the vegetables or serve the dish over sautéed zucchini noodles for a noodle-style experience without the carbs.
- Keto Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry - Add mushrooms, broccoli, or snow peas (in moderation) for more bulk and fiber while keeping the dish low carb.
What To Eat With Keto Stir Fry
Keto stir fry is versatile and flavorful, and pairing it with the right low-carb sides keeps your meal filling while maintaining your carb goals.
- Cauliflower Rice - The most popular pairing; it mimics rice and soaks up sauces beautifully.
- Zoodles - Light, fresh, and great for noodle-style stir fry meals.
- Shirataki Noodles - Extremely low in carbs and perfect for noodle-based dishes.
- Air Fryer Bok Choy - Adds crunch and freshness with minimal carbs.
How Long Does It Last?
Keto Thai Cashew Chicken lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen as it chills, making the leftovers even more delicious. Just keep the cashews separate until serving so they stay crunchy.
Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for the best texture.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze Keto Thai Cashew Chicken, but with one important adjustment. Freeze the chicken and sauce mixture without the cashews, since nuts become soft and lose their crunch in the freezer.
Store the cooked chicken and vegetables in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months.
Thaw your leftovers overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Want More Awesome Thai Recipes?
- Thai Gai Yang - use your Air Fryer to make awesome Cornish Game Hens!
- Thai Green Curry - delicious and full of Thai spices!
- Thai Peanut Chicken - use the Air Fryer to get perfect crispy chicken!
- Basil Beef Bowls - these are spicy and the perfect quick meal idea!
Looking for more quick keto recipes? Check out my list of 69+ Keto Quick Meals !
Keto Stir Fry | Thai Cashew Chicken
Equipment
- 12 inch Skillet
Ingredients
- ▢ 2 tablespoons Oil
- ▢ 2 boneless skinless chicken breast , cut into 1 inch dice
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce , or soy sauce
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic
- ▢ 1 packet Splenda , or one tablespoo brown sugar
- ▢ 1/2 cup Onion , diced
- ▢ 1 cup Bell Peppers , diced
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/2 cup cashews , fried or salt roasted
- ▢ 1/2 cup Chopped Green Scallions , chopped
- ▢ 2 tablespoons Cilantro , chopped, and chopped basil mixed together
- ▢ 1 Eggs , optional
Instructions
Marinate the chicken with fish sauce, garlic, and Splenda.
Add oil to a hot pan and cook the chicken on high heat.
When it is cooked, add onions and sauté. Leave them crisp and add peppers, salt, and cashews.
Push everything to the side. Add a little oil if needed and crack an egg in the middle. Allow the whites to set and then flip it over. Once it is cooked, slash it into ribbons with your spatula and mix into the chicken.
Add green onions, cilantro, and basil, and serve.
Egg. Don’t burn the egg. Add a little oil to the pan before cooking it if you think the pan needs it.
Onions. Leave them crispy to maintain the proper texture for this Thai Cashew Chicken recipe. Don’t overcook them.
Sugar. Sub the packet of Splenda for a tablespoon of brown sugar if you wish.
Keto. This dish is Keto-friendly, but you can serve it with rice for your non-Keto family members.
Use a good nonstick pan . I love this Mealthy nonstick pan because its heavy, inexpensive, and utterly nonstick.
Get support & connect with our community on Facebook!
Nutrition
Don’t forget to check out my other Ketocookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats , and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
Make a Thai Cashew Chicken easily with this delicious and low carb Keto Stir Fry recipe. It’s nutty, full of veggies, and so easy you’ll add it to your weekly menu!
What Makes This Keto Stir Fry Recipe So Crave-Worthy?
- One Pan. I hate after-dinner clean-up almost as much as I hate long-winded, overly-complicated recipes. This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is made in a single skillet.
- Fresh Herbs. This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is very similar to a Thai Basil Chicken dish you could order at a Thai restaurant. It’s finished off with fresh basil and cilantro that take it over the edge.
- Low Sugar. Use Splenda instead of brown sugar to make this dish low-sugar. You’ll still get that pinch of sweet without the added sugar content.
- Fast. This cooks up quick and will leave you standing at the stove for less than 20 minutes from start to finish.
Is Fish Sauce Fishy?
If you drank the bottle of fish sauce, then yes. However, as a marinade, when combined with the Sugar or Splenda and garlic, it just provides a nice, balanced umami flavor to the chicken.
Can I Have Soy Sauce On Keto?
Yes, in moderation. If you’re following a strict Keto diet you may want to avoid certain ingredients that may not fit into your macros. However, most brands of soy sauce are naturally low in carbs and are great at adding flavor to your favorite Asian recipes.
Can I Use Sugar Instead of Splenda In Keto Stir Fry?
Of course! But it won’t be keto-friendly. Instead of a single packet of Splenda, you can use one tablespoon of brown sugar. I use Splenda because I follow a Keto way of eating and it helps to make this dish Keto-friendly with that one substitution.
Is Thai Cashew Chicken Keto-Friendly?
Keto Thai Cashew Chicken can absolutely be low-carb friendly when prepared with the right ingredients and a few smart substitutions.
- Splenda. This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is Keto-friendly. As I stated above, the recipe calls for Splenda instead of brown sugar and it cuts down the carb/sugar content without sacrificing flavor.
- Cashews. Keto-friendly nuts include cashews, so this is a great dish that’s high in protein and perfect while following Keto.
- Family-Friendly. This is also a great dish to make for the whole family, even if they’re not eating Keto. Simply serve this with some white rice and you have a complete meal for everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons Oil - Used for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables, helping everything cook quickly and evenly.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts - The main protein; cooks quickly and absorbs the flavorful sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce or soy sauce - Adds savory umami depth and classic Thai flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic - Provides aromatic, savory warmth that builds the dish’s flavor base.
- 1 packet Splenda or 1 tablespoon brown sugar - Balances the savory notes with sweetness, creating the signature sweet-savory Thai profile.
- 1/2 cup Onion - Adds sweetness, texture, and mild bite as it softens during cooking.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers - Adds crunch, color, and natural sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt - Seasons the dish and enhances all other flavors.
- 1/2 cup Cashews - Adds buttery crunch and nutty flavor, a key element of Thai cashew chicken.
- 1/2 cup Chopped Green Scallions - Adds fresh oniony brightness and color.
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro and chopped basil - Brings fresh, herbal, aromatic notes typical in Thai cuisine.
- 1 Egg - Can be scrambled into the dish to add richness and extra protein.
How To Make Thai Cashew Chicken
- Marinate. Marinate the chicken with fish sauce, garlic, and Splenda.
- Chicken. Add oil to a hot pan and cook the chicken on high heat.
- Veggies. When it is cooked, add onions and sauté. Leave them crisp and add peppers, salt, and cashews.
- Egg. Push everything to the side. Add a little oil if needed and crack an egg in the middle. Allow the whites to set and then flip it over. Once it is cooked, slash it into ribbons with your spatula and mix into the chicken.
- Finish. Add green onions, cilantro, and basil, and serve.
Tips and Tricks for Making Keto Stir Fry
Making Thai Cashew Chicken keto-friendly is easy with a few smart swaps and techniques that keep all the bold Thai flavor while lowering the carbs.
- Egg. Don’t burn the egg. Add a little oil to the pan before cooking it if you think the pan needs it.
- Onions. Leave them crispy to maintain the proper texture for this Thai Cashew Chicken recipe. Don’t overcook them.
- Sugar. Sub the packet of Splenda for a tablespoon of brown sugar if you wish.
- Keto. This dish is Keto-friendly, but you can serve it with rice for your non-Keto family members.
- Use a good nonstick pan . I love this Mealthy nonstick pan because its heavy, inexpensive, and utterly nonstick.
Variations
Keto Thai Cashew Chicken is wonderfully flexible, and with a few smart swaps, you can create different versions that stay flavorful, satisfying, and low in carbs.
- Keto Coconut Cashew Chicken - Add ¼ cup canned coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, rich variation that stays keto-friendly.
- Keto Cashew Chicken with Zoodles - Swap the vegetables or serve the dish over sautéed zucchini noodles for a noodle-style experience without the carbs.
- Keto Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry - Add mushrooms, broccoli, or snow peas (in moderation) for more bulk and fiber while keeping the dish low carb.
What To Eat With Keto Stir Fry
Keto stir fry is versatile and flavorful, and pairing it with the right low-carb sides keeps your meal filling while maintaining your carb goals.
- Cauliflower Rice - The most popular pairing; it mimics rice and soaks up sauces beautifully.
- Zoodles - Light, fresh, and great for noodle-style stir fry meals.
- Shirataki Noodles - Extremely low in carbs and perfect for noodle-based dishes.
- Air Fryer Bok Choy - Adds crunch and freshness with minimal carbs.
How Long Does It Last?
Keto Thai Cashew Chicken lasts 3–4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen as it chills, making the leftovers even more delicious. Just keep the cashews separate until serving so they stay crunchy.
Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for the best texture.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze Keto Thai Cashew Chicken, but with one important adjustment. Freeze the chicken and sauce mixture without the cashews, since nuts become soft and lose their crunch in the freezer.
Store the cooked chicken and vegetables in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months.
Thaw your leftovers overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Want More Awesome Thai Recipes?
- Thai Gai Yang - use your Air Fryer to make awesome Cornish Game Hens!
- Thai Green Curry - delicious and full of Thai spices!
- Thai Peanut Chicken - use the Air Fryer to get perfect crispy chicken!
- Basil Beef Bowls - these are spicy and the perfect quick meal idea!
Looking for more quick keto recipes? Check out my list of 69+ Keto Quick Meals !
Keto Stir Fry | Thai Cashew Chicken
Equipment
- 12 inch Skillet
Ingredients
- ▢ 2 tablespoons Oil
- ▢ 2 boneless skinless chicken breast , cut into 1 inch dice
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce , or soy sauce
- ▢ 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic
- ▢ 1 packet Splenda , or one tablespoo brown sugar
- ▢ 1/2 cup Onion , diced
- ▢ 1 cup Bell Peppers , diced
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/2 cup cashews , fried or salt roasted
- ▢ 1/2 cup Chopped Green Scallions , chopped
- ▢ 2 tablespoons Cilantro , chopped, and chopped basil mixed together
- ▢ 1 Eggs , optional
Instructions
Marinate the chicken with fish sauce, garlic, and Splenda.
Add oil to a hot pan and cook the chicken on high heat.
When it is cooked, add onions and sauté. Leave them crisp and add peppers, salt, and cashews.
Push everything to the side. Add a little oil if needed and crack an egg in the middle. Allow the whites to set and then flip it over. Once it is cooked, slash it into ribbons with your spatula and mix into the chicken.
Add green onions, cilantro, and basil, and serve.
Egg. Don’t burn the egg. Add a little oil to the pan before cooking it if you think the pan needs it.
Onions. Leave them crispy to maintain the proper texture for this Thai Cashew Chicken recipe. Don’t overcook them.
Sugar. Sub the packet of Splenda for a tablespoon of brown sugar if you wish.
Keto. This dish is Keto-friendly, but you can serve it with rice for your non-Keto family members.
Use a good nonstick pan . I love this Mealthy nonstick pan because its heavy, inexpensive, and utterly nonstick.
Get support & connect with our community on Facebook!
Nutrition
Don’t forget to check out my other Ketocookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats , and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
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Keto Stir Fry | Thai Cashew Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1 inch dice
- 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce or soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic
- 1 packet Splenda or one tablespoo brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Onion diced
- 1 cup Bell Peppers diced
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/2 cup cashews fried or salt roasted
- 1/2 cup Chopped Green Scallions chopped
- 2 tablespoons Cilantro chopped, and chopped basil mixed together
- 1 Eggs optional
Instructions
Marinate the chicken with fish sauce, garlic, and Splenda.
Add oil to a hot pan and cook the chicken on high heat.
When it is cooked, add onions and sauté. Leave them crisp and add peppers, salt, and cashews.
Push everything to the side. Add a little oil if needed and crack an egg in the middle. Allow the whites to set and then flip it over. Once it is cooked, slash it into ribbons with your spatula and mix into the chicken.
Add green onions, cilantro, and basil, and serve.
Egg. Don’t burn the egg. Add a little oil to the pan before cooking it if you think the pan needs it.
Onions. Leave them crispy to maintain the proper texture for this Thai Cashew Chicken recipe. Don’t overcook them.
Sugar. Sub the packet of Splenda for a tablespoon of brown sugar if you wish.
Keto. This dish is Keto-friendly, but you can serve it with rice for your non-Keto family members.
Use a good nonstick pan . I love this Mealthy nonstick pan because its heavy, inexpensive, and utterly nonstick.
Keto Stir Fry | Thai Cashew Chicken https://twosleevers.com/thai-cashew-chicken/
Paneer Tikka is a quick Indian paneer starter/appetizer made with paneer cubes tossed with garlic, ginger, cilantro, and warm spices (like garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika/cayenne) and finished with ghee and lemon juice. It’s quick and weeknight-friendly and works well for a low-carb, keto-friendly, gluten-free vegetarian appetizer or snack when you want big flavor fast. Unlike traditional paneer tikka that’s skewered and grilled in a tandoor, this version gets the same bold, spiced flavor by pan-frying quickly in ghee. No skewers, no grill, and done in under 30 minutes.
What Makes Paneer Tikka So Great?
- Low Carb - The perfect keto appetizer.
- Gluten Free - No worrying about food allergies.
- Vegetarian - A great meatless dish the whole family will love.
- Fast - Done in less than 30 minutes .
- Delicious - A fabulous Indian comfort food .
What Snacks Can Be Made From Paneer?
This Low-Carb Paneer Tikka makes either a simple paneer starter on its own or a welcome addition to other sauces and dips.
When I figured out how to make Paneer in an Instant Pot without having to babysit the process, I started to think of quick and easy things I could do with the paneer.
If you love appetizer parties, (and who doesn’t!) then I have a menu for you. You can serve, or have your guests each bring an app.
Serve this Paneer Tikka , with Tandoori Chicken , and Mint and Chili Kabobs dipped in Cilantro Pesto and served with a refreshing glass of Agua de Jamaica. Your friends will never leave.
What Kind Of Food Is Paneer?
Paneer is an Indian cheese that is creamy and salty. It is so versatile as it doesn’t melt, that the possibilities of cooking with Paneer are endless.
You can buy paneer ready-made at Indian grocery stores where it is typically in the frozen section. At the grocery store, they sell the paneer either plain or fried. You can also make it yourself using my very easy pressure cooker paneer recipe.
If you are looking for a substitute or can’t find Paneer , try queso fresco . It has a similar consistency and taste.
Is Paneer Tikka Healthy?
Many people have a different definition of what healthy means to them. So while this recipe may not seem like a healthy recipe at first glance, upon further inspection you will see it does have many healthy attributes.
This Paneer Tikka recipe is fairly high in fat, but they are healthy fats. If you’re eating a low carb diet , the healthy fats will keep you fuller longer and prevent you from snacking between meals.
On top of being a satisfying appetizer choice, it is also gluten-free , vegetarian , and high in protein .
Can You Eat Paneer By Itself?
Yes! Paneer is just a tasty bite of cheese, so don’t feel like you need to jump through hoops just to try out a new ingredient.
While I enjoy paneer most as an addition to another recipe, you can absolutely eat it alone.
Should Paneer Be Fried?
Paneer is delicious no matter the cooking method. However, for these yummy paneer snacks , you’ll want to get out your favorite frying pan with a little oil and enjoy it pan-fried.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups Paneer - The star of the dish. Paneer provides a rich, creamy, and mildly sweet base that soaks up the spiced marinade beautifully. .
- 2 teaspoons Oil - Helps the spices and aromatics coat the paneer evenly and prevents sticking during cooking. It also contributes to a lightly crisp exterior when seared.
- 3–4 cloves Garlic - Adds a sharp, savory depth and enhances the overall aroma of the marinade.
- 2 teaspoons Minced Ginger - Brings a warm, slightly spicy brightness that balances the richness of the paneer and rounds out the garlic’s sharpness.
- ¼ cup Cilantro - Adds a fresh, herbal note and vibrant green color to the marinade. It also provides a touch of cooling contrast to the spices.
- 1 teaspoon Salt - Enhances all the other flavors and ensures the paneer and spices are well-seasoned throughout.
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala - A fragrant Indian spice blend made with cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. It adds warmth, complexity, and a signature tikka aroma.
- ½ teaspoon Turmeric - Provides earthy flavor and a beautiful golden hue to the paneer. It also adds a subtle bitterness that balances the other spices.
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cumin - Adds nutty, smoky depth and enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon Ground Coriander - Contributes citrusy, slightly sweet undertones that brighten the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon Smoked Paprika - Gives a mild smokiness and enhances color, helping to mimic the traditional tandoor-cooked flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper - Adds gentle heat and a spicy kick that balances the creaminess of the paneer. Adjust to taste for more or less heat.
- 1 tablespoon Ghee - Used for frying or brushing the paneer, ghee adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps achieve a golden, crisp finish while keeping the inside soft.
- 1 Lemon - Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the paneer and spices.
Watch The Paneer Tikka Video
How To Make This Fried Paneer Recipe
- Place paneer into a bowl and add oil and all the spices.
- Gently mix everything, taking care to not break the paneer . I found this easiest to do with my hands.
Allow this mixture to marinate for about 30 minutes.
Heat a skillet , and when it’s hot, add two tablespoons of ghee .
- Lay the paneer cubes in a single layer in the pan.
- Let it sear for 1-2 minutes, and then using tongs , turn the pieces to sear the other side. Once both sides are seared, you can reduce the heat a little to finish warming the paneer.
- Spritz the lemon juice right before serving.
Tips And Tricks
Making Paneer Tikka at home is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy one of India’s most popular appetizers. A few key techniques can help you achieve perfectly charred, tender paneer with vibrant flavor in every bite. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to make it perfect every time:
- Use Full-Fat Paneer . Full-fat or homemade paneer stays soft and creamy even after grilling or air frying. Low-fat paneer can become rubbery or dry.
- Cut Paneer into Even Cubes . Uniform pieces (about 1 to 1½ inches) ensure the paneer cooks evenly and gets golden edges without breaking apart.
- Marinate for at Least 30 Minutes . Letting the paneer soak in the yogurt-spice marinade helps it absorb all those bold tandoori flavors. For best results, marinate for 2–4 hours or overnight.
Variations
Here are some delicious and creative ways to customize your Paneer Tikka to suit different tastes, cooking methods, and dietary preferences without losing its irresistible smoky, spiced charm:
- Hariyali - Blend cilantro, mint, green chilies, and spinach into the marinade for a vibrant green color and refreshing herbal flavor.
- Achari - Add a spoonful of Indian pickle (achar) or pickle masala to the marinade for a tangy, spicy twist with bursts of mustard and fenugreek.
- Baked - Arrange marinated paneer and veggies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
How Long Does It Last?
Paneer Tikka can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation from making the paneer soggy.
When ready to eat, reheat it in an air fryer, oven, or skillet for a few minutes until warm and slightly crisp around the edges
Can You Freeze It?
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked paneer tikka for up to 2 months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to enjoy those bold, smoky flavors again.
Paneer tikka can be spicy, but it’s very easy to control. The “heat” mainly comes from cayenne/chili powder, while the rest of the flavor is warm and aromatic from garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika. If you want a mild Indian paneer appetizer, keep the cayenne low (or skip it) and lean on paprika for color. If you want a hotter tandoori paneer, bump up the chili and finish with lemon and a cooling side like mint chutney or raita. Because paneer is mild and creamy, even moderately spiced paneer tikka often tastes more flavorful than fiery.
Paneer usually turns rubbery because it’s overcooked. Paneer doesn’t “tenderize” like meat, so the longer it stays on the heat, the more it tightens up and gets chewy. Store-bought or frozen paneer can also start out firmer. A quick soak in warm water for 10–15 minutes helps soften it before making paneer tikka, then pat it dry so it sears instead of steaming. For tender pan-fried paneer tikka, use high heat, don’t crowd the pan, and cook just long enough to brown the edges.
To get tandoori-style char on paneer tikka without a tandoor, you need high heat and a relatively dry surface. Pat the paneer dry so it sears instead of steaming, then cook in a hot skillet with ghee (or oil) in a single layer until the edges brown. For extra “tandoori” flavor, finish under a hot broiler for 1–3 minutes or use an air fryer paneer tikka blast at high temp to add deeper browning. Char comes from intense heat at the surface, not longer cooking time (which just makes paneer rubbery).
What Are The Dishes Made From Paneer?
- If you ever thought making Indian Palak Paneer (or Spinach with Paneer) was complicated, here’s the recipe that will convince you otherwise. Delicious, nutritious, full-flavored, & super easy to make.
- Make restaurant-quality Indian Matar Paneer , or Indian Peas and Paneer, in your Instant Pot or pressure cooker. This is a classic Indian Vegetarian recipe you can make at home in minutes!
- Make this Vegetarian Paneer Biryani in your Instant Pot. Make an easy, authentic, kid-friendly, vegetarian/vegan dinner in under 30 minutes .
Paneer Tikka Recipe | Paneer Snacks
Equipment
- skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Silicone Tongs
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- ▢ 1.5 cups ( 337.5 g ) paneer , cut into cubes
- ▢ 2 teaspoons ( 2 teaspoons ) Oil
- ▢ 3-4 cloves ( 3 cloves ) Garlic , minced
- ▢ 2 teaspoons ( 2 teaspoons ) Minced Ginger , minced
- ▢ ¼ cup ( 4 g ) Cilantro , chopped
- ▢ 1 teaspoon ( 1 teaspoon ) Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1 teaspoon ( 1 teaspoon ) Garam Masala
- ▢ ½ teaspoons ( 0.5 teaspoons ) Turmeric
- ▢ ½ teaspoons ( 0.5 teaspoons ) Ground Cumin
- ▢ ½ teaspoons ( 0.5 teaspoons ) Ground Coriander
- ▢ ½ teaspoons ( 0.5 teaspoons ) Smoked Paprika , for color and a slightly smoky taste
- ▢ ¼ teaspoons ( 0.25 teaspoons ) Cayenne Pepper
- ▢ 1 tablespoon ( 1 tablespoon ) Ghee , for cooking the paneer
- ▢ 1 ( 1 ) Lemon , Juice of 1 lemon for sprinkling before serving
Instructions
- Place paneer into a bowl and add oil and all the spices. Gently mix everything, taking care to not break the paneer . I found this easiest to do with my hands.
- Allow this mixture to marinate for about 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet , and when it’s hot, add two tablespoons of ghee. Lay the paneer cubes in a single layer in the pan.
- Let it sear for 1-2 minutes, and then using tongs , turn the pieces to sear the other side. Once both sides are seared, you can reduce the heat a little to finish warming the paneer.
- Spritz the lemon juice right before serving.
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- You can buy paneer ready-made at Indian grocery stores where it is typically in the frozen section. At the grocery store, they sell the paneer either plain or fried. You can also make it yourself using my very easy pressure cooker paneer recipe.
- If you are looking for a substitute or can’t find Paneer, try queso fresco. It has a similar consistency and taste.
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Nutrition
Don’t forget to check out my other Ketocookbooks.
Keto Instant Pot, Keto Fat Bombs, Sweets, & Treats , and Easy keto in 30 minutes.
