Authentic Tandoori Chicken: Spicy, Smoky, and Perfectly Grilled

Tandoori Chicken Recipe: A Spiced Delight with a Smoky Char

Tandoori chicken is a beloved dish that combines the smoky flavors of grilled chicken with a tantalizing blend of spices and yogurt, creating a vibrant and aromatic flavor profile. This classic Indian recipe brings together the magic of garlic, ginger, and spices like cumin and Kashmiri red chili powder. The yogurt acts as a tenderizer, infusing the chicken with a burst of flavor while also ensuring it stays juicy and succulent. Whether you choose to bake it or grill it for that perfect char, Tandoori Chicken will surely become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken legs, skinned and trimmed
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 inch piece of fresh ginger
• 1-2 fresh green chilies, depending on your spice preference
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon Kashmiri red chili powder (for that vibrant color and mild heat)
• 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
• 1 cup plain yogurt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

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   • Begin by cleaning and trimming the chicken legs, removing any excess skin or fat. To allow the marinade to penetrate deeply, make two diagonal slashes on each chicken leg, cutting down to the bone.

2. Blend the Aromatics:

   • Using a pestle and mortar (or a blender), crush the garlic, ginger, and fresh green chilies into a smooth paste. This aromatic paste will form the base of your marinade.

3. Marinate the Chicken:

   • Place the chicken in a shallow dish. Add the freshly ground garlic, ginger, and chili paste, along with the lemon juice and mustard oil. Toss the chicken well to coat it evenly in the mixture.

4. Make the Yogurt Paste:

   • In a separate bowl, combine the salt, garam masala, ground cumin seeds, Kashmiri red chili powder, and dried fenugreek leaves. Stir in the yogurt to create a smooth, flavorful paste.

5. Massage the Marinade:

   • Pour the yogurt paste over the chicken. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the flesh of the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated, especially in the slashes you made earlier. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.

6. Marinate for Flavor:

   • Cover the chicken and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. However, for the best results, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight to let the flavors fully develop.

7. Cook the Chicken:

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Transfer the marinated chicken onto a baking tray, ensuring it’s spread out evenly. Bake the chicken for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the skin is slightly charred. The charred edges are key to achieving that smoky flavor signature of Tandoori Chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous, grilling the chicken on a barbecue will add an even richer smoky flavor.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once cooked to perfection, serve the Tandoori Chicken hot with a side of naan bread, rice, or a fresh salad. The tender, flavorful chicken, enhanced by the spice and smokiness, is sure to impress.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approx. 320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

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Allergen Information:

• Contains Dairy: This recipe includes plain yogurt, so it is not suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
• Contains Mustard: Mustard oil is used in this recipe, so be mindful of any mustard allergies.
• Contains Gluten (if serving with naan): The recipe itself is gluten-free, but if you choose to serve it with naan, be aware that it may contain gluten.

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Dietary Preferences:

• Gluten-Free: The chicken itself is naturally gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative such as coconut yogurt.
• Low-Carb: Ideal for those following a low-carb or keto diet when paired with a side of vegetables instead of rice.

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Cooking Tips & Tricks:

• Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chilies based on your preferred spice level. For a milder version, reduce the chili or use a mild variety.
• Cooking Method: While baking the chicken is convenient, cooking it on a charcoal grill will give you an authentic smoky flavor. If using a grill, make sure to baste the chicken with the marinade periodically for a deeper flavor.
• Marination Time: For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
• Alternative Cuts: You can use other cuts of chicken such as thighs or boneless breasts for quicker cooking. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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Conclusion:

Tandoori Chicken is a flavorful and mouthwatering dish that brings together bold spices and tender chicken in a perfect harmony. The key to this recipe lies in the marination process, where the combination of aromatic spices and yogurt infuses the chicken with incredible depth and flavor. Whether you bake or grill the chicken, the smoky, spicy kick will leave you craving more. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and you have a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

Enjoy the magic of Indian spices in your own kitchen with this delicious Tandoori Chicken recipe!