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Authentic Tandoori Chicken

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Authentic Tandoori Chicken is a flavorful, smoky dish that brings the bold spices of India straight to your grill. Marinated in a blend of yogurt, cumin, garam masala, and other fragrant spices, the chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a tender, juicy texture with a delicious char. Perfect for BBQs or family dinners, this vibrant dish is a must-try for anyone craving an authentic Indian experience.

Ingredients

1-inch ginger, minced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup plain yogurt

2 pounds chicken quarters (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Marinade: Combine minced ginger, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, garam masala, ground coriander, salt, smoked paprika, olive oil, and yogurt in a large bowl. Mix until smooth.

  • Marinate the Chicken: Make deep slashes in the chicken pieces to allow the marinade to penetrate. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

  • Prepare for Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For charcoal, allow the coals to turn white and hot; for gas, set to medium-high.

  • Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through and charred, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

  • Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving with naan, rice, or a cucumber salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon juice.

Notes

Storage: Leftover tandoori chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months before grilling. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Customizations: Add more heat by increasing smoked paprika or fresh chili in the marinade. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with paneer or vegetables like cauliflower.