tandoori chicken

Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish that is made by marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices and cooking it in a tandoor, a clay oven that is traditionally used in Indian cuisine. The chicken is typically marinated for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and to make it tender and moist.

Here is a basic recipe for tandoori chicken:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken pieces (such as drumsticks or thighs)
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp tandoori masala (a spice blend that can be found at an Indian grocery store or made at home)
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ginger paste
1 tsp garlic paste
1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
salt, to taste
juice of 1/2 lemon

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, tandoori masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, ginger paste, garlic paste, chili powder (if using), and salt.

Step 2

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

Step 3

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5

Place the chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6

Remove the chicken from the oven and brush it with the lemon juice.

Step 7

Serve the tandoori chicken with rice or naan bread and your choice of side dishes.

Step 8

Step 9

You can also grill the tandoori chicken on a barbecue instead of baking it in the oven. Simply preheat the grill to medium-high heat, place the chicken on the grill, and cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).