Easy chicken tandoori recipe in oven: your indian summer staple

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with our delectable chicken tandoori recipe made effortlessly in your oven. This classic dish, typically prepared in a tandoor (clay oven), can now be recreated in the comfort of your home, promising an explosion of taste and aroma.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5-2 kg)
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the marinade penetrate better.
2. Create the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roast the Chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken to the prepared baking sheet and roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) when measured with a meat thermometer.
6. Baste the Chicken: During the roasting process, baste the chicken with the remaining marinade every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Tips:

• For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for longer, up to 24 hours.
• If you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute it with buttermilk or sour cream.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.
• Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, such as basmati rice, naan bread, or raita.

Variations:

• Chicken Tikka: Marinated in a yogurt-based marinade with a combination of spices, including cumin, coriander, and paprika.
• Malai Chicken: Marinated in a thick paste made from yogurt, cream, and spices, resulting in a creamy and tender texture.
• Hariyali Chicken: Marinated in a green paste made from cilantro, mint, and green chilies, giving it a vibrant color and herbaceous flavor.

Health Benefits:

• Chicken is a lean protein source, rich in vitamins and minerals.
• Yogurt provides probiotics, which support gut health.
• Spices like cumin and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion:

Our chicken tandoori recipe in oven is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will guide you every step of the way. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and embark on a flavorful adventure today!

FAQs:

Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but the cooking time may vary. Adjust the roasting time accordingly.

Q: What is a good substitute for garam masala?
A: If you don’t have garam masala, you can use a combination of ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and roast it the next day. Alternatively, you can roast the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.