Tandoori Chicken Recipe – A Flavorful and Smoky Indian Delight

Tandoori Chicken is a popular Indian dish made by marinating chicken in a flavorful mixture of yogurt and spices, then cooking it in a tandoor (traditional clay oven). It is rich, smoky, and aromatic.

Ingredients

For Marination:

• Chicken (whole or cut into pieces): 500g

• Yogurt: 1/2 cup

• Ginger-garlic paste: 2 tbsp

• Red chili powder: 1 tbsp

• Turmeric powder: 1/2 tsp

• Garam masala: 1 tsp

• Cumin powder: 1/2 tsp

• Lemon juice: 1 tbsp

• Oil: 2 tbsp

• Salt: to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves: for garnish

For Cooking:

• Oil or ghee: for brushing

• Charcoal: (for smoky flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, lemon juice, oil, and salt.

2. Mix well and coat the chicken pieces evenly with the marinade.

3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor

Step 2: Preheat the Grill or Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or heat your grill.

2. If using a grill, you can also place a piece of charcoal in a small container, heat it, and place it inside the grill for a smoky flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Place the marinated chicken pieces on a grill rack or baking tray.

2. Brush the chicken with oil or ghee to prevent it from drying out.

3. Grill the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has a smoky aroma

Step 4: Smoke the Chicken (Optional)

1. For an authentic smoky flavor, place the hot charcoal piece inside the grill or oven.

2. Drizzle a little oil over the charcoal and quickly cover to trap the smoke.

3. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb the smoky aroma

Step 5: Serve Tandoori Chicken

1. Garnish the cooked chicken with fresh coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges.

2. Pair with naan, roti, or rice, and enjoy the smoky, flavorful tandoori chicken!