Looking for a healthy paneer dish that’s both satisfying and quick to make? These Zesty Tandoori Air Fryer Paneer Bites are deliciously spiced, packed with protein, and cook up crisp without a drop of oil in the air fryer. Get ready for tempting aromas, bold flavors, and a nutritious twist on a classic favorite!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces paneer, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or regular yogurt, drained)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Pinch of salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Begin by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, chili powder, ground coriander, turmeric, and garam masala until it has a smooth consistency. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste. Add the paneer cubes, gently folding them into the marinade so they’re evenly coated. Cover and let this mixture rest for at least 15 minutes (longer if you like a deeper flavor).
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Remove the marinated paneer cubes from the bowl, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the paneer in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If needed, you can lightly mist the basket with cooking spray, but it’s often not required for this recipe. Cook for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through or until the cubes turn a lovely golden-brown color. Remove them carefully and sprinkle with fresh cilantro if you wish.
These Zesty Tandoori Air Fryer Paneer Bites are an excellent choice for a quick weeknight meal or a healthier snack option. They’re flavorful, protein-packed, and perfect for pairing with salads, wraps, or whole-grain flatbreads. If you’re watching your calories, you’ll love how the air fryer technique replaces heavy oil with hot air for just the right amount of crispness. Feel free to adjust the spice levels, swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative, or replace paneer with tofu to fit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re a paneer aficionado or you’re simply looking for a fun new recipe to try, these air-fried bites will surprise you with their vibrant flavors and nourishing goodness.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
