Tandoori Chicken

Homemade Tandoori Chicken: A Twist on the Classic

Tandoori chicken is a classic Indian dish featuring chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor oven. Here’s a recipe to make this flavorful dish at home: marinate chicken in a yogurt-based sauce with warming spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric.

Bake or grill the chicken until cooked through. Enjoy with basmati rice, naan, and raita for a complete and delicious meal.

Ingredients

  • For the Marinade
    • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
    • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
    • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
    • 1 tablespoon garam masala
    • 1 tablespoon paprika
    • 1 cup plain yogurt (or buttermilk)
    • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    • 4 garlic cloves, minced
    • 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
    • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For the Chicken
    • 4 bone-in, skinless chicken leg quarters (or thighs, drumsticks)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

  • In a small pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add coriander, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and paprika. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant (about 3 minutes). Let cool completely.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled spice mixture, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and salt.
  • Add chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, for the flavors to develop.

Cook the Chicken

  • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  • Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can also broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end for a crispier exterior.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Tips

  • For a richer flavor: You can substitute Greek yogurt (hung curd) for the plain yogurt in the marinade.
  • No oven? No problem! You can grill the chicken on a preheated grill pan or even grill it outdoors for an authentic smoky flavor.
  • Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier Tandoori chicken, add a chopped green chili pepper to the marinade.
  • Serve with your favorites: Enjoy your Tandoori chicken with basmati rice, naan bread, and a cooling raita.

Enjoy your flavorful homemade Tandoori Chicken!

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