Tandoori chicken

Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish that originated in the Punjab region. This vibrant and flavorful dish features marinated chicken, traditionally cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor. The marinade, made with yogurt and a blend of aromatic spices, imparts a vibrant red color and infuses the chicken with a delightful combination of tangy, smoky, and spicy flavors. In this article, we will explore the essence of tandoori chicken, its key characteristics, and provide you with a classic recipe to recreate this delicious dish at home.

Key Characteristics of Tandoori Chicken: Tandoori chicken is known for its vibrant appearance, smoky flavor, and juicy texture. The marinade is the star of the show, featuring a combination of yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, and garam masala. The chicken is marinated for several hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat. Traditionally, tandoori chicken is cooked in a tandoor oven, but it can also be prepared on a grill or in the oven, resulting in a deliciously charred exterior and succulent interior.

Classic Tandoori Chicken Recipe:

Ingredients for Marinade:

• 2 pounds chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or bone-in breasts)
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Ingredients for Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, garam masala, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well to form a smooth and creamy marinade.
2. Make deep cuts in the chicken pieces to allow the marinade to penetrate and flavor the meat.
3. Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. If using a grill: Grill the chicken pieces over direct heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred. If using an oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned.
6. Remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. Garnish the tandoori chicken with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
8. Tandoori chicken pairs well with naan bread, basmati rice, and a side of mint chutney or yogurt sauce.