Description
Sizzling tandoori chicken brings Indian spice magic right to your grill, delivering bold flavors that dance across your palate. Marinated in yogurt and aromatic spices, this classic dish offers an authentic culinary journey you’ll savor with every succulent bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
Spices and Marinade:
- 2 tbsp tandoori masala
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garnish and Serving:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 lemon (for wedges)
- 2 green chilies (optional)
Instructions
- Blend yogurt, tandoori masala, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, black pepper, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, and olive oil into a smooth, vibrant marinade.
- Thoroughly coat chicken breasts in the prepared marinade, ensuring complete coverage. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours, allowing spices to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Clean and oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 20 minutes before grilling to reach room temperature, which promotes even cooking.
- Place marinated chicken on preheated grill, cooking 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and exterior develops charred, caramelized edges.
- Transfer grilled chicken to a resting plate, cover loosely with foil, and let sit for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Slice chicken diagonally and arrange on serving platter, garnishing with fresh cilantro, lemon wedges, and optional sliced green chilies.
- Serve immediately with accompanying sides like rice, naan, or salad for a complete tandoori-style meal.
Notes
- Adjust the marinade intensity by reducing chili powder for a milder version, perfect for those with lower spice tolerance.
- Swap chicken breasts with tofu or paneer for a vegetarian alternative that absorbs the same vibrant tandoori flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy, tender chicken.
- If outdoor grilling isn’t possible, replicate tandoori char using a hot cast-iron skillet or oven broiler for similar caramelized results.
- Prep Time: 2-3 hours
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg