Tandoori Chicken

Name: Tandoori Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 kg chicken (legs or quarters); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons tandoori masala; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Posted on April 23, 2025

Indian Cuisine

Tandoori chicken is a vibrant dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your table. Marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then grilled to perfection, this dish is juicy, smoky, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, tandoori chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

– 1 kg chicken (legs or quarters)
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of tandoori chicken (250g) contains approximately 320 calories, 38g protein, 15g fat, and 5g carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, paprika, cumin, and salt to create a marinade.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off.
6. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
7. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
8. Baste the chicken with any leftover marinade during cooking for extra flavor.
9. Once cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

If you don’t have tandoori masala, you can substitute with garam masala or a mix of cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Yogurt can be replaced with buttermilk for a similar texture and tang.

Serving and Pairings

Tandoori chicken is best served with naan bread, basmati rice, or a fresh salad. It pairs wonderfully with mint chutney or yogurt sauce for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover tandoori chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Cooking Mistakes

Not marinating long enough—this affects flavor and tenderness.
Using high heat too early can cause burning.
Skipping the resting period after cooking results in dry chicken.
Not checking the internal temperature may lead to undercooked chicken.
Using too much salt in the marinade can overpower the dish.

Helpful Tips

For extra smokiness, cook the chicken over charcoal.
Use bone-in chicken for juicier meat.
Experiment with different spices to customize flavors.
Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh kick.

FAQs

Can I make tandoori chicken in the oven?

Yes, you can bake tandoori chicken in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.

What is tandoori masala?

Tandoori masala is a spice blend typically containing spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, giving tandoori dishes their distinctive flavor and color.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used; however, adjust the cooking time to ensure it remains juicy.

Is tandoori chicken spicy?

The spice level can vary based on the amount of chili used in the marinade. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.

What sides go well with tandoori chicken?

Tandoori chicken pairs well with rice, naan, salads, and various dipping sauces like mint chutney or raita.

Conclusion

Tandoori chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that captures the heart of Indian cuisine. With its vibrant colors and tantalizing spices, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed at a gathering or as a comforting family meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and savor the taste of tradition!