When it comes to mouth-watering barbecue, Tandoori chicken is definitely a must-try dish. This popular Indian dish is loved for its flavorful and juicy chicken, cooked to perfection on a skewer in a tandoor oven. Traditionally, tandoori chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice, giving it a unique tangy and spicy taste that is hard not to love.
Barbecue tandoori chicken is a delightful twist on this Indian classic, perfect for an outdoor barbecue party with family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic grilling techniques, you can easily prepare this dish at home and wow your guests with the amazing flavors and textures.
To start with, you will need some chicken pieces, preferably boneless and skinless, that are cut into small cubes. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the marinade by combining the following ingredients:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala spice mix
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
Whisk the marinade ingredients together and then add the chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure each piece is coated well with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken and make it tender and juicy.
When you are ready to cook the chicken, take it out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grease the grates with some oil or cooking spray. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece and making sure they are not packed too tightly.
Grill the chicken skewers over direct heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. You can also brush some extra marinade on the chicken while it's cooking for an added burst of flavor.
Serve the barbecue tandoori chicken skewers hot, garnished with some chopped cilantro and lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs well with some fluffy naan bread, cucumber raita, and a refreshing salad for a complete and balanced meal.
There are also various ways to customize the marinade according to your preferences and dietary needs. For example, you can use Greek yogurt or coconut milk instead of plain yogurt for a thicker and creamier texture. You can also use different spice blends, such as garam masala or curry powder, to create your own unique flavor profile.
Barbecue tandoori chicken is not only delicious but also healthy, as it is high in protein and low in fat and carbs. Chicken is a great source of lean protein that can help build and repair muscle tissue, while yogurt and spices provide various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that have been linked to improved digestion, immunity, and overall health.
In addition, grilling is a healthy cooking method that does not require any added oils or fats, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake or trying to maintain a healthy weight. To make the dish even lighter, you can opt for skinless chicken breast or swap some of the yogurt with unsweetened almond milk or low-fat cottage cheese.
Overall, barbecue tandoori chicken is a tasty and nutritious dish that is easy to make and a crowd-pleaser. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice, you can enjoy this Indian-inspired barbecue recipe and impress your guests with a culinary adventure that is full of flavor and aroma. So fire up your grills and let the magic happen!