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I'm sharing my all-time favorite Original Tandoori Chicken with you guys today. This dish completely won me over during my first trip to India. There's just nothing better than that combo of spicy marinade and juicy chicken. After tons of kitchen experiments, I've finally nailed a version that comes really close to what you'd get in India.
Keys to making it amazing
I only use chicken thighs for my Tandoori Chicken. They stay nice and juicy while soaking up all those spices perfectly. I always remove the skin so the marinade can work its magic deep into the meat. Making a few small cuts helps the flavor reach every part of the chicken.
It's all about the spice blend
The Tandoori Masala really steals the show in this dish. I grind my spices myself which makes a huge difference in taste. The mix of coriander, cumin, paprika and turmeric gives the chicken its signature flavor. When freshly ground, these spices really come alive with aroma.
The marinade makes the difference
I mix Greek yogurt with my spice blend in a big bowl. I always grate fresh garlic and ginger into it for better flavor. A splash of lemon juice helps tenderize the meat. I make sure the thighs get thoroughly coated, covering every little crack. Letting them sit overnight creates the perfect taste.
My baking approach
I don't have a real tandoor oven at home but my regular oven works great. The chicken turns golden brown and juicy at 175 degrees. I brush it with melted butter every few minutes to get that crispy skin. At the end, I turn on the broiler function for a bit.
What I serve alongside
Fresh baked naan bread always goes with my Tandoori Chicken. A mint yogurt dip is a must - it adds such a refreshing touch. Thinly sliced red onion rings and fresh cilantro finish everything off nicely.
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Why thighs work better
Chicken thighs are truly the top choice for this dish. They stay juicy even with longer cooking times. The marinade penetrates deeply and gives them that intense flavor. Breast meat tends to dry out too quickly in comparison.
Yogurt does the trick
The yogurt is absolutely essential in my marinade. It makes the meat wonderfully tender and helps all the spices stick properly. I go for Greek yogurt since it's nice and creamy. Its slight tanginess brings great balance to the dish.
My special spice mix
I love grinding spices fresh whenever possible. In my spice grinder, coriander, cumin and paprika come together as a fragrant powder. Turmeric adds that beautiful color. This homemade mix tastes so much better than anything store-bought.
Lemon for brightness
A good squeeze of lemon is absolutely necessary in my book. It not only tenderizes the meat but also brings out all the spice flavors beautifully. That slight acidity perfectly balances the spiciness.
Butter takes it up a notch
Melted butter is my little secret weapon. I carefully brush it over the chicken every few minutes. This makes the outside crispy while keeping the meat juicy inside. The shine that butter creates really gets your appetite going.
Getting the authentic taste
After lots of trial and error, my version comes very close to the real deal. The traditional marinade with the right spices, the juicy meat, the crispy exterior. My Indian friends give it two thumbs up, and that's the biggest compliment I could ask for.
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Taking enough time
Good Tandoori Chicken can't be rushed. The marinade needs time to work its magic, preferably overnight. The meat rewards you with incredible flavor. The prep work is always worth it.
Tasty meatless options
For my vegetarian guests, I often marinate paneer instead. This Indian fresh cheese absorbs the spices wonderfully. Veggies like bell peppers and zucchini also taste fantastic with the tandoori marinade.
That signature color
The bright red color comes from my spice mixture. Paprika powder and Tandoori Masala give the chicken its characteristic look. Sometimes I add a tiny bit of food coloring, but that's totally optional.
Baking advice
The chicken needs plenty of space on the baking sheet or it won't cook evenly. I watch it carefully, especially when the broiler is on. Just a few minutes too long and that nice crust gets too dark.
Heat level your way
I like to adjust the spiciness based on who's eating. Less chili for the kids, more for the grown-ups. Fresh green chilies make it really fiery. Everyone can find their perfect spice level.
Other cooking methods
During summer, my Tandoori Chicken goes straight on the barbecue. That slight smoky flavor makes it extra delicious. It also turns out great in a grill pan. The most important thing is giving the marinade enough time to soak in.
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Ghee vs regular butter
I use ghee for brushing whenever I can get it. This clarified butter adds a special flavor. Regular butter works great too, just make sure it's fully melted.
Perfect pairings
We always have naan and basmati rice on the side. A fresh cucumber salad or my homemade mint chutney adds a refreshing element. These combinations really make the meal complete.
Prep sets you up for success
For me, preparation is key. All spices ready to go, marinade mixed the night before. This way I can focus just on cooking the next day. This calm approach shows in the final taste.
Tandoor vibes at home
My Tandoori Chicken turns out amazing even without a traditional clay oven. The regular oven does a fine job. Regular butter brushing and that final broiler heat create the typical crust we all crave.
Leftover magic
Leftovers get creative treatment in my kitchen. Yesterday's Tandoori Chicken goes into wraps or on top of salads. The spicy flavors are still there, sometimes tasting even more intense.
Marinade for everything
My Tandoori marinade works wonders on so many foods. It transforms not just chicken but also lamb or fish into something special. Over time, you develop a feel for how long different meats need to marinate.
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A taste of India
This Tandoori Chicken means more to me than just a recipe. It brings India's aromas and flavors straight to my kitchen. The vibrant colors, the spicy smell, that crispy crust - making it always feels like a mini vacation to the East.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is Tandoori Masala?
- Tandoori masala is a special Indian spice mix for making tandoori stuff. You'll find spices like ginger, cumin, coriander, garlic, and a bunch of others in it.
- → Why do you cut into the meat?
- Cutting little slits helps the marinade soak deeper. That way, the chicken gets loads more flavor and stays soft.
- → Can I use chicken breast or other cuts?
- Sure, swap in chicken breast or any part you like. Just remember—cooking time will need a little change.
- → Why use the oven’s grill at the end?
- Blasting the heat at the end gives you those charred bits, just like in a real tandoor oven.
- → How long does the marinade work?
- You can let your chicken hang out in the marinade up to a day. Don’t skimp—let it sit at least 2-3 hours so the flavors blend in.