Tandoori chicken is a popular dish in Indian cuisine that is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, and cooked in a tandoor oven. The dish is famous for its tangy, smoky flavor that is achieved from the high heat of the tandoor oven. However, not everyone has access to a tandoor oven or the time to prepare a traditional tandoori chicken recipe, which involves lengthy marination and cooking times. Fortunately, there are "almost tandoori chicken recipes" that mimic the familiar flavor profile of tandoori chicken, but with simplified preparations.
The Basic Ingredients of Tandoori Chicken
While tandoori chicken recipes may differ in their specific spice blends, there are several essential ingredients that are needed to achieve the dish's signature taste. These ingredients include:
Yogurt
Plain, full-fat yogurt is a foundational ingredient in tandoori chicken marinades. The yogurt adds tanginess and helps to tenderize the chicken. Greek yogurt or strained yogurt can also be used, although they will result in a slightly thicker marinade.
Spices
Tandoori chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and garam masala. These spices contribute to the dish's warm, earthy flavor, and give it its distinctive vibrant red color. Other herbs and spices that may be included in the marinade include ginger, garlic, paprika, and fenugreek.
Lime or Lemon Juice
Acidic ingredients such as lime or lemon juice help to tenderize the chicken and add brightness to the marinade. They also help to balance out the bold flavors of the spices.
Oil
A small amount of neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, helps to distribute the spices evenly and keeps the chicken from sticking to the grill or pan.
What Makes an Almost Tandoori Chicken Recipe?
An almost tandoori chicken recipe is one that captures the essence of traditional tandoori chicken, but is simplified for easier preparation. While traditional tandoori chicken recipes involve lengthy marination times, skewering the chicken, and cooking it in a tandoor oven, almost tandoori chicken recipes offer a quicker and more accessible alternative that can be made in a home kitchen.
Some Popular Almost Tandoori Chicken Recipes
Tandoori Chicken Skewers
These almost tandoori chicken skewers are perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor broiling. The key to this recipe is using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which are more flavorful and tender than chicken breast.
To make the marinade, combine yogurt, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, ginger, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours.
When ready to cook, preheat your grill or broiler to high heat. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. Serve with naan bread and yogurt sauce.
Almost Tandoori Chicken Wraps
These almost tandoori chicken wraps are a flavorful and healthy lunch option. The recipe uses baked chicken breast instead of grilled chicken, which makes it a low-fat alternative to traditional tandoori chicken.
To make the marinade, combine yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken breast and toss to coat evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken breast on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Let cool for 10 minutes, then slice thinly.
To assemble the wraps, lay a large lettuce leaf or tortilla on a clean surface. Add a few slices of chicken, sliced cucumber and red onion, and a dollop of yogurt sauce. Roll up the wrap tightly and enjoy.
Almost Tandoori Chicken Pizza
This almost tandoori chicken pizza combines the flavors of Indian cuisine with the comfort of classic pizza. It uses naan bread as the crust, which makes it a quick and easy dinner option.
To make the marinade, combine yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add boneless, skinless chicken breast and toss to coat evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours.
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread a tablespoon of tomato sauce on each naan bread and top with sliced mozzarella cheese. Add a few pieces of marinated chicken and sliced red onion. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and browned. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Conclusion
Almost tandoori chicken recipes are a great way to enjoy the spicy, tangy flavors of tandoori chicken without the need for a tandoor oven or complicated preparation. With some basic ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can recreate the beloved dish in your own kitchen. Whether you prefer skewers, wraps, or pizzas, almost tandoori chicken recipes offer a satisfying and flavorful alternative to traditional tandoori chicken.
The rich and smoky flavors of tandoori chicken have made it a favorite dish across the globe. However, not everyone has access to a tandoor oven or the skills required to cook the perfect tandoori chicken at home. Fortunately, there are recipes for 'almost' tandoori chicken that can be made in a regular oven or on a grill. This article will offer valuable tips for anyone who wants to make 'almost' tandoori chicken at home.
Tip 1: Marination is Key
The secret to making delicious tandoori chicken is marination. Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also tenderizes the meat making it juicy and succulent. For 'almost' tandoori chicken, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. The longer you marinate the chicken, the better the flavors will be. Use a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and tandoori masala to give the chicken a tangy and spicy flavor.
Tip 2: Use the Right Cut of Chicken
The traditional tandoori chicken recipe calls for a whole chicken to be marinated and cooked in a tandoor oven. However, for 'almost' tandoori chicken, it is best to use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. These cuts of meat are more flavorful and hold their shape better during cooking. Make sure to remove the skin before marinating the chicken, as the skin can block the marinade from penetrating the meat.
Tip 3: Add Color the Right Way
Tandoori chicken is known for its vibrant red color, which comes from the use of a natural red food color called Kashmiri red chili powder. However, for 'almost' tandoori chicken, it is best to avoid using artificial colors and instead, use a combination of paprika, turmeric, and red chili powder to add color to the chicken. Adding too much color can make the chicken taste bitter and can stain your hands and utensils.
Tip 4: Use the Right Cooking Method
Tandoori chicken is traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, which gives it a smoky flavor and a crispy texture. For 'almost' tandoori chicken, you can use a regular oven or grill to cook the chicken. You can also use a stovetop grill pan to give the chicken char marks. Preheat the oven or grill to 400°F and cook the chicken for 30-40 minutes, turning it once halfway through the cooking time. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F before removing it from the heat.
Tip 5: Serve with the Right Accompaniments
Traditional tandoori chicken is served with a side of mint chutney and lemon wedges. For 'almost' tandoori chicken, you can serve it with a simple salad, rice pilaf, or naan bread. Make sure to garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro or mint leaves to add a pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Making 'almost' tandoori chicken at home is easy and requires only a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques. Remember to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, add color the right way, choose the right cooking method, and serve with the right accompaniments. With these valuable tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of tandoori chicken in the comfort of your own home.
