Recipe for making Tandoori Chicken
Ingredients:
Chicken: 1 whole chicken (cut into 8-10 pieces) or 4 chicken legs with thighs
Yogurt: 1 cup (plain, full-fat)
Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
Garlic paste: 2 tablespoons
Ginger paste: 2 tablespoons
Red chili powder: 2 teaspoons (adjust to taste)
Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon
Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
Paprika: 1 teaspoon (for color)
Salt: 1.5 teaspoons (or to taste)
Mustard oil or vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves): 1 tablespoon (optional)
Fresh coriander leaves: 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
Butter or oil: For basting
Onion rings and lemon wedges: For serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
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In a large mixing bowl, add the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic paste, ginger paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, and salt.
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Mix well until all ingredients are combined into a smooth paste.
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Add mustard oil or vegetable oil to the marinade. The oil helps to keep the chicken moist while cooking.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
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Make small incisions or slashes in the chicken pieces to allow the marinade to penetrate better.
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Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are thoroughly coated. You can use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Prepare the Grill or Oven:
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Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
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If using an oven, place a wire rack over a baking tray lined with aluminum foil to catch any drippings.
4. Cook the Chicken:
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Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill or the wire rack in the oven.
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Cook the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with butter or oil. The chicken should be cooked through and have a slightly charred exterior.
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If cooking in the oven, you can switch to the broiler setting for the last 5 minutes to achieve a more charred effect.
5. Garnish and Serve:
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Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven.
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Sprinkle kasuri methi over the chicken, if using.
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Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
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Serve hot with onion rings, lemon wedges, naan, or rice.
Enjoy your homemade Tandoori Chicken!