Tandoori Chicken is a classic Indian dish known for its vibrant color and smoky flavor. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, which gives it a distinctive taste. It’s a popular dish enjoyed worldwide for its bold flavors and aromatic spices, making it a favorite at both Indian restaurants and home kitchens.
Servings: Serves 4 people
Appliances/Utensils:
- Mixing bowls
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Skewers
- Basting brush
- Chef knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust for spice level)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Make small cuts in the chicken pieces with a chef knife on a cutting board to help the marinade penetrate.
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Mix Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt.
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Marinate Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for best results.
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Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
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Thread Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
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Grill Chicken: Using a basting brush, lightly oil the grill grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove chicken from skewers and serve hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a more authentic flavor, use a charcoal grill to impart a smoky taste.
- Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference.
- For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk instead of yogurt.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve Tandoori Chicken with naan, basmati rice, or a simple cucumber salad. A side of mint chutney can enhance the flavors.
Estimated Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 4-8 hours
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 5 hours