What To Know
- Place the skewers on the hot side of the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once the chicken is seared, move it to the cooler side of the grill and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- You can bake the chicken tandoori in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Indulge in the aromatic and delectable flavors of India with our comprehensive guide on how to make chicken tandoori at home. This classic dish, traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, can be recreated in your own kitchen with ease. Follow our step-by-step instructions to tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Marinade
1. Remove the skin: Remove the skin from the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate deeply.
2. Combine the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, ginger, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
3. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in the marinade and coat it thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Cooking
1. Prepare the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to create a two-zone fire with one side hotter than the other.
2. Skewer the chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto metal skewers.
3. Grill the chicken: Place the skewers on the hot side of the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Be sure to rotate the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Move to indirect heat: Once the chicken is seared, move it to the cooler side of the grill and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Finishing
1. Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Garnish: Garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro or mint for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the chicken tandoori with a side of rice, naan bread, or raita.
- Accompany with a refreshing salad or chutney for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as an appetizer or main course for any occasion.
Tips
- For a smokier flavor, add a few pieces of charcoal to the grill.
- If you don’t have metal skewers, you can use bamboo skewers. Just be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- To make the chicken extra tender, marinate it for longer.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and tough.
Health Benefits
Chicken tandoori is a relatively healthy dish, as it contains:
- Protein: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Vitamins: Chicken tandoori is a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, which are important for energy production and brain function.
- Minerals: Chicken tandoori contains minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium, which are important for immune function and overall health.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they will cook more quickly than bone-in chicken. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: You can bake the chicken tandoori in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
