Chicken Tandoori

  A Taste of Tradition The Ultimate Tandoori Chicken Recipe

• Tandoori Chicken, an epitome of Indian culinary excellence, stands as a testament to centuries-old traditions and the art of flavor mastery. In this, comprehensive recipe, we embark on a culinary adventure to recreate this iconic dish, from its vibrant marinade to its smoky finish in the tandoor oven.

Chicken Tandoori Ingredients

• 2 lbs (approx. 1 kg) chicken pieces (preferably bone-in, skinless thighs or drumsticks)
•  1 cup plain yogurt
•  2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
•  1 tablespoon lemon juice
•  1 teaspoon ground turmeric
•  1 teaspoon ground cumin
•  1 teaspoon ground coriander
•  1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
•  1 teaspoon garam masala
•  Salt to taste
•  Vegetable oil, for basting
•  Fresh cilantro leaves and lemon wedges, for garnish

Chicken Tandoori Instructions

1. Start by making deep cuts into the chicken pieces with a sharp knife. This helps the marinade penetrate deeply and ensures maximum flavor.

2.  In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, or Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well until smooth and uniform.

3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated on all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.

4. Preheat your grill or oven to high heat. If using a grill, make sure it is well-oiled to prevent sticking.

5. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, shaking off any excess marinade. If using an oven, place the chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil to catch any drips

6. Cook the chicken in the preheated grill, or oven for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and charred in spots. Alternatively, if you have access to a tandoor oven, cook the chicken in the tandoor for an authentic smoky flavor.

7. During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the chicken with vegetable oil to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.

8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill, oven, or tandoor and let it rest for a few minutes.

9. Garnish the Tandoori Chicken with fresh cilantro leaves and lemon wedges before serving. Enjoy hot with naan bread, rice, or your favorite Indian side dishes.

10. Sit back, savor the flavors, and revel in the satisfaction of mastering this classic Tandoori Chicken recipe, a true delight for the senses and a. celebration of culinary heritage.