Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, lemon juice, salt, and vegetable oil to make the marinade.
- Make deep cuts in the chicken pieces, ensuring the marinade penetrates well. Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on the rack, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, turning once halfway through. You can also grill the chicken for an authentic tandoori flavor.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges.
Important Points:
- Marination: Marinate the chicken for an extended period for better flavor absorption. Overnight marination is ideal.
- Cuts in Chicken: Make deep cuts in the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate, ensuring a flavorful and juicy result.
- Yogurt: Use thick yogurt or strain regular yogurt to remove excess water. It helps in creating a thick and flavorful coating.
- Cooking Method: While baking is convenient, grilling over open flames imparts a smoky flavor, mimicking the traditional tandoor.
- Serve Hot: Tandoori chicken is best served hot. Garnish just before serving for a fresh and vibrant look.
FAQs:
1. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces for a quicker cooking time.
2. What if I don’t have a tandoor or grill? Baking in an oven works well, but you can also use a stovetop grill pan for a similar effect.
3. Can I use store-bought Tandoori Masala? While homemade marinade is preferred, you can use store-bought Tandoori Masala as a shortcut.
4. How spicy is Tandoori Chicken? Adjust the red chili powder according to your spice preference. It can be mild to moderately spicy.
5. Can I freeze marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Thaw before cooking.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Tandoori Chicken!