Marinated Chicken Drumsticks (Kalmi Tikka) – Your New Favourite Recipe

Let’s talk about chicken. Not just any chicken but juicy, smoky, spice-marinated drumsticks that make your mouth water the second they hit the grill or oven. Meet Kalmi Tikka, the kind of dish that makes your guests go quiet after the first bite (because they’re busy stuffing their face).

Whether you're hosting a family get-together, a weekend BBQ, or just craving something ridiculously good, this is it.

But wait, what is Kalmi Tikka? Let’s break it down.

What Is Kalmi Tikka?

Kalmi Tikka is a royal Mughlai dish that originally graced the plates of kings. It features chicken drumsticks marinated in a thick, flavourful yogurt base loaded with Indian spices, sometimes enhanced with cheese, cream, or cashew paste. Then it’s grilled, roasted, or tandoor-cooked until golden and slightly charred.

It's not your average chicken, it's soft, aromatic, melt-in-the-mouth goodness with a bold smoky finish.

Ingredients You'll Need For Marinated Chicken Drumsticks Kalmi Tikka (Plus Smart Substitutes)

Here’s everything you’ll need for the marinade:

• 6–8 chicken drumsticks, skin removed
  
  
• ½ cup thick yogurt (Greek or hung curd is perfect)
  
  
• 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
  
  
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  
  
• 1 tsp coriander powder
  
  
• 1 tsp cumin powder
  
  
• 1 tsp garam masala
  
  
• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek)
  
  
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
  
  
• Salt to taste
  
  
• 2 tbsp oil (or butter for basting)
  
  

Optional richness boosters:

• 2 tbsp cashew paste
  
  
• 2 tbsp fresh cream
  
  
• 2 tbsp grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
  
  

Pro Tip: If you don’t have cashew paste, soak 10 cashews in hot water for 15 mins and blend with a splash of milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Marinated Chicken Drumstick Kalmi Tikka (With Tips)

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken

• Wash and pat dry your drumsticks.
  
  

• Make small slits across each piece so the marinade seeps in. This is KEY to flavour.
  
  

Step 2: Make Your Marinade

In a bowl, mix together yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, all spices, lemon juice, and salt. Add cashew paste or cream if using. Whisk until smooth.

Now toss in the drumsticks and massage the marinade in really well — gloves help if you're going all in.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours — overnight is best. The longer, the better.

How to Cook Kalmi Tikka (3 Ways)

Option 1: Oven-Baked

• Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F).
  
  
• Line a baking tray with foil, grease lightly.
  
  
• Place drumsticks, baste with oil/butter.
  
  
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway.
  
  
• Broil for last 3–4 minutes for charred edges.
  
  

Option 2: Grill

• Heat your grill to medium-high.
  
  
• Cook drumsticks for 15–20 mins, flipping and basting every 5 mins.
  
  
• Watch the smoky magic unfold.
  
  

Option 3: Pan-Seared (Stovetop)

• Use a non-stick or cast iron pan.
  
  
• Add a splash of oil and cover-cook drumsticks for 15–20 mins, flipping.
  
  
• Uncover and sear for 5 more mins for that crisp exterior.
  
  

Want smoky flavour without a grill? Burn a piece of charcoal, place it in a steel bowl, drop some ghee on it, and cover your chicken with a lid for 3–5 mins. Instant smokehouse vibes.

How to Serve Marinated Chicken Drumsticks Kalmi Tikka

Oh, this dish is so versatile.

• Serve with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and onion rings
  
  
• Pair with naan, paratha, or even jeera rice
  
  
• Add a fresh salad or boondi raita to cool things down
  
  
• Hosting a BBQ? This is the star. No arguments.
  
  

Expert Tips to Nail It

• Don’t skip the slits on your drumsticks. That’s how flavour gets in.
• Hung curd works better than regular yogurt — no wateriness.
• Always baste with butter or oil mid-cook for juicy results.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking before serving. Keeps it moist.

 Variations Worth Trying

  Tangy Tikka: Add more lemon juice and some chaat masala for extra zing
  Cheesy Kalmi Tikka: Add grated cheese into the marinade — gooey, rich, next-level
  Spicy Lover’s Version: Add crushed green chilies or a pinch of chili flakes
  Herb-y Refresh: Toss in some mint and coriander paste for freshness

 Nutrition Info (Per Drumstick – Approx)

Note: This varies based on your marinade choices (like cream/cheese).

 FAQs About Kalmi Tikka

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A: Absolutely! Boneless thighs work great — just reduce cooking time slightly.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use vegan yogurt and skip the cream/cheese. It’ll still be super flavourful!

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or oven (not microwave — it’ll get chewy).

Final Thoughts

Kalmi Tikka is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually super easy to make once you know the steps. With the right marinade and a little patience, you’ll have the most tender, juicy chicken drumsticks packed with flavour. Trust me, once you try this, plain old BBQ chicken just won’t cut it anymore.