Learn How To Grill Chicken Tandoori Like A Pro In Just 5 Easy Steps!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of India with this step-by-step guide on how to grill chicken tandoori. This delectable dish, traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, can be effortlessly recreated on your grill, resulting in succulent, juicy chicken infused with an aromatic spice blend.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala

Prepare the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
2. Cut the chicken into eight pieces (two legs, two thighs, two wings, and two breasts).
3. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and salt.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.

Fire Up the Grill

1. Prepare your grill for direct grilling over medium-high heat (400-450°F).
2. Clean the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any debris.
3. Oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Grill the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade and shake off any excess.
2. Grill the chicken over direct heat for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F for white meat and 180°F for dark meat.
4. Baste the chicken with the remaining marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor.

Make the Tandoori Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and garam masala.
2. Brush the tandoori marinade over the grilled chicken and return it to the grill for an additional 2-3 minutes per side.
3. This will give the chicken a slightly charred and smoky flavor.

Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the grilled chicken tandoori with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.
2. Serve with your favorite sides, such as basmati rice, naan bread, or a cooling raita.

Enjoy the Culinary Symphony

Savor the vibrant flavors and succulent texture of your homemade grilled chicken tandoori. This dish is a testament to the versatility of grilling and the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine.

Tips for Grilling Chicken Tandoori

• For a more tender chicken, marinate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
• If you don’t have a ginger-garlic paste, you can use fresh ginger and garlic instead.
• Use a grill basket to prevent the chicken from falling through the grill grates.
• Keep a close eye on the chicken while grilling to prevent it from burning.
• Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Elevate Your Grilling Game

• Experiment with different spice combinations to create your own unique tandoori marinade.
• Try grilling other types of meat, such as lamb or fish, using the tandoori marinade for a flavorful twist.
• Serve the grilled chicken tandoori with a variety of dipping sauces, such as mint chutney or tamarind chutney.

Top Questions Asked

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. However, they will cook faster than bone-in chicken, so adjust the grilling time accordingly.

2. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F for white meat and 180°F for dark meat. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

3. Can I grill chicken tandoori without a marinade?

You can grill chicken tandoori without a marinade, but it will not have as much flavor. If you choose to grill without a marinade, be sure to brush the chicken with oil to prevent it from sticking to the grill.