Tandoori Chicken is a fiery and flavorful Indian dish. The Punjabis marinate the chicken in yogurt and aromatic spices for taste and aroma. Next, it is cooked in a tandoor for a charred and succulent delight. People love it for gatherings and special occasions. This dish is an important part of Indian culinary heritage. It represents the art of tandoor cooking which has been passed down through generations. People around the world loves this dish. It is also a favorite in Indian restaurants worldwide. Tandoori Chicken captures the essence of Indian flavors. This makes it an iconic and well-loved dish. Whether hosting a gathering or seeking authentic Indian cuisine, it’s sure to delight your taste buds with its smoky goodness.
Tandoori Chicken: Explore the Tandoori Tradition of Punjab
Course: Main, StarterCuisine: IndianDifficulty: Moderate4
servings30
minutes40
minutes2 hours to Overnight
Tandoori Chicken is a renowned dish originating from the Indian subcontinent. It is believed to have originated in the Punjab region, where it was traditionally cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor. The name “tandoori” refers to the cooking method, where the chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, giving it a vibrant red color and distinct flavor.
This dish holds cultural significance and is often associated with celebratory events and festivals. Tandoori Chicken has gained immense popularity not only in India but also globally, thanks to its delicious taste and unique cooking technique. It has become a staple in Indian cuisine and is widely enjoyed in restaurants and homes alike.
The marinade plays a crucial role in the preparation of Tandoori Chicken. A blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and various spices such as red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander create a harmonious balance of flavors. The chicken is left to marinate for hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to infuse and tenderize the meat.
Traditionally, Tandoori Chicken was cooked in a tandoor, a hot clay oven that imparts a distinct smoky flavor. However, nowadays, it is also prepared using conventional ovens or grills, providing equally delicious results. The chicken is cooked at high temperatures, resulting in a charred and slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Tandoori Chicken is often served with mint chutney, sliced onions, and lemon wedges, which complement its rich flavors. It can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a larger Indian meal. The popularity of Tandoori Chicken has led to various adaptations and variations, including Tandoori Chicken Tikka, where the chicken is skewered and grilled.
This iconic dish continues to be celebrated for its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and unique cooking style. Whether enjoyed in traditional tandoors or prepared using modern cooking methods, Tandoori Chicken remains a true delight that showcases the rich culinary heritage of India.
Ingredients
1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons Tandoori masala
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 tablespoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, Tandoori masala, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). If you have a tandoor or charcoal grill, preheat it as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If using an oven, place the marinated chicken on a baking tray lined with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. If using a tandoor or grill, cook the chicken until it is well cooked and charred, turning occasionally.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven or grill. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Quick Notes
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the spices and yogurt to penetrate the meat and make it more tender and flavorful.
- If possible, use thick Greek yogurt for the marinade. It has a creamier texture and will adhere better to the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful coating.
- Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference. You can increase or decrease the quantity to suit your taste.
- If using an oven, preheat it to 425°F (220°C) for the perfect balance of cooking and browning. If using a grill, ensure it is preheated to medium-high heat.
- While cooking, baste the chicken with some oil or melted ghee to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.
- For that authentic smoky flavor, you can finish off the chicken under a broiler for a couple of minutes after it’s cooked. This will give it a nice charred appearance.
- Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain its juices and ensures a tender and succulent texture.
- Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped coriander leaves over the Tandoori Chicken. It adds a burst of freshness and enhances the presentation.
- Tandoori Chicken pairs well with mint chutney, yogurt dip, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve it alongside naan bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs like paprika, cardamom, cinnamon, or fenugreek leaves to customize the flavors of your Tandoori Chicken.
