How to cook tandoori chicken at home

What is tandoori chicken and what makes it so popular?

Tandoori chicken is a famous North Indian dish, known for its vibrant red color and smoky flavor. It is made by marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices and then cooking it in a tandoor (clay oven). The combination of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala gives the chicken its distinctive taste and aroma. The yogurt in the marinade helps tenderize the meat and also adds a creamy texture. Tandoori chicken is popular because of its unique flavor, colorful appearance, and versatility. It can be served as a main course or as a snack, and pairs well with various side dishes like naan bread, salad, and rice.

What are the best types of chicken to use for tandoori chicken?

The best types of chicken for tandoori chicken are bone-in, skinless chicken thighs, legs, and drumsticks. The bone helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor, while the skin can be removed to reduce the fat content. Skinless chicken breasts can also be used, but they can dry out easily, so it’s important to marinate them for a longer period. It’s best to use fresh, organic chicken if possible, as it will have more flavor and be healthier.

What is the traditional tandoori chicken marinade made of?

The traditional tandoori chicken marinade is made of yogurt, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, and salt. The yogurt acts as a tenderizer for the chicken and also helps the spices to stick to it. The garlic and ginger give it a strong flavor, while the lemon juice adds acidity and brightness. The turmeric, cumin, coriander, and paprika provide a warm, earthy flavor, and the garam masala adds depth and complexity. Salt is added to taste. The marinade is usually left to sit for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop.

What are some tips for marinating tandoori chicken?

Marinating tandoori chicken properly is important to ensure that the chicken is flavorful and tender. Here are some tips for marinating tandoori chicken:

Use a zip-lock bag or a deep dish to marinate the chicken.

Apply the marinade evenly on all sides of the chicken.

Add the yogurt, lemon juice, and spices to the marinade.

Make sure to pierce the chicken with a fork to allow the marinade to penetrate the meat.

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight.

How can I make tandoori chicken without a tandoor?

Making tandoori chicken without a tandoor is quite easy. You can use an oven or a grill to cook the chicken. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) or heat the grill. Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet or skewers and cook it for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. You can also use a grilling pan and cook the chicken over medium heat for 10-12 minutes per side. Once the chicken is cooked, you can brush it with melted butter or ghee to give it a rich flavor.

How long should I cook tandoori chicken in the oven?

Tandoori chicken should be cooked in the oven for about 30-35 minutes at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) or until the chicken is cooked through. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer, which should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) or higher. It’s important to not overcook the chicken, as it can dry out quickly.

How do I know when tandoori chicken is cooked?

Tandoori chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the middle. You can check the temperature by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the chicken with a fork, and if the juices run clear, it is cooked.

How can I make my tandoori chicken spicier?

To make tandoori chicken spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also use hot green chilies or red chilies in the marinade. Additionally, you can sprinkle some red chili powder on the chicken before cooking it.

Can I use aluminum foil for tandoori chicken in the oven?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil for tandoori chicken in the oven. Cover the baking tray with aluminum foil, and then place the marinated chicken on it. The aluminum foil will prevent the marinade from burning and sticking to the tray.

Can I bake tandoori chicken in a regular oven?

Yes, you can bake tandoori chicken in a regular oven. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and bake the marinated chicken for 30-35 minutes or until it is cooked through.

What can I serve with tandoori chicken?

You can serve tandoori chicken with naan bread, rice, or salad. Some popular side dishes to serve with tandoori chicken include cucumber raita, onion salad, green chutney, and mint chutney. You can also serve it with lemon wedges on the side.

Can I make tandoori chicken in a convection oven?

Yes, you can make tandoori chicken in a convection oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and bake the marinated chicken for 25-30 minutes or until it is cooked through.

Can I use boneless chicken for tandoori chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken for tandoori chicken. Boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast work well for this recipe. However, bone-in chicken pieces are more flavorful and moist.

What is the shelf life of tandoori chicken?

The shelf life of tandoori chicken depends on how it is stored. If it is stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, it can last for 3-4 days. If it is frozen, it can last for up to 3 months. Always thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before reheating it.

Can I use a grill pan for tandoori chicken?

Yes, you can use a grill pan for tandoori chicken. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for 10-12 minutes per side or until it is cooked through. Make sure to oil the grill pan before adding the chicken to prevent it from sticking.

Conclusion

Making tandoori chicken is a simple process that involves marinating the chicken in a yogurt-based marinade and cooking it in an oven, grill, or tandoor. It is important to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight to ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat. When cooking the chicken, it is essential to ensure that it is cooked through but not overcooked to avoid dry and tough meat. Tandoori chicken can be served with various accompaniments like rice, naan, or salad. With these tips and techniques, you can make the perfect tandoori chicken at home and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.