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Authentic Tandoori Chicken Recipe with a Flavorful Twist

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    ChefPandas
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🍲 About This Dish

Tandoori Chicken, a beloved dish from Punjab, holds cultural significance in Indian cuisine. This iconic dish is known for its vibrant blend of spices and the unique method of cooking in a tandoor (clay oven). Originating from the Indian subcontinent, Tandoori Chicken has gained worldwide popularity for its smoky flavor and tender texture.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Chicken (Murgh)
  • Yogurt (Dahi)
  • Ginger (Adrak)
  • Garlic (Lehsun)
  • Garam Masala
  • Turmeric (Haldi)
  • Red Chili Powder (Lal Mirch)
  • Cumin Powder (Jeera Powder)
  • Coriander Powder (Dhaniya Powder)
  • Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves)
  • Lemon Juice

✨ What Makes It Special

Tandoori Chicken showcases regional variations within India, with each region adding its unique touch to the dish. While the Punjabi version is known for its robust flavors and medium spice level, other regions may adjust the spices to suit local preferences.

📝 Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 2 tbsp Kasuri Methi
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

To make the Tandoori Masala:

  • 1 tbsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tbsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tbsp black peppercorns
  • 1 tbsp green cardamom pods
  • 1 tbsp cloves
  • 1-inch cinnamon stick
  • Grind the spices into a fine powder.

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Marinate the chicken in yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, Tandoori Masala, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, Kasuri Methi, lemon juice, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours.
  2. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  3. Skewer the marinated chicken pieces and place them in the oven.
  4. Cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has a charred exterior.
  5. Serve hot with lemon wedges and onion rings.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 20 minutes
  • Marination: 2 hours
  • Cooking: 25-30 minutes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Tandoori Chicken is traditionally served with mint chutney, sliced onions, and fresh lemon wedges. Pair it with naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • For an authentic smoky flavor, you can add a piece of charcoal to the marinated chicken before cooking.
  • Adjust the spice levels to suit your preference, keeping in mind that Tandoori Chicken is typically medium-spicy.
  • To achieve a vibrant red color, you can add a pinch of food-grade red color or Kashmiri red chili powder.

📦 Storage

Store any leftover Tandoori Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the flavors and texture.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Tandoori Chicken, a dish that represents the rich culinary heritage of Punjab and the diverse tapestry of Indian cuisine.