Tandoori chicken, with its vibrant crimson hue and smoky, subtly sweet flavor, is a culinary delight. Elevating this classic to the next level by grilling it on skewers adds a delightful char and makes it perfect for parties, barbecues, or a weeknight dinner. This guide will walk you through creating the perfect tandoori chicken skewers, addressing common questions and offering tips for a truly memorable experience.
What is Tandoori Chicken?
Tandoori chicken originates from the Indian subcontinent, specifically from the tandoor, a traditional clay oven. The characteristic color and flavor come from a marinade typically based on yogurt, spices, and lemon juice. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, while the spices—including turmeric, ginger, garlic, chili powder, and garam masala—impart a complex and aromatic profile. Cooking in a tandoor oven results in incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken, but you can achieve excellent results using a grill or broiler as well.
How do you make tandoori chicken skewers?
Making tandoori chicken skewers is surprisingly straightforward. The key lies in the marinade. Allow ample time for the chicken to marinate—at least 4 hours, ideally overnight—to fully absorb the flavors and tenderize the meat. Here's a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp tandoori masala (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Wooden or metal skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes (if using wooden skewers)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, tandoori masala, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the chicken cubes and thoroughly coat them with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
- Grill the skewers over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
What are the best cuts of chicken for tandoori skewers?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs are both excellent choices for tandoori skewers. Breasts are leaner, while thighs offer more richness and moisture. You can even use a combination for a balanced flavor and texture. Ensure the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
Can you make tandoori chicken skewers ahead of time?
Yes! The beauty of tandoori chicken skewers lies in their preparation. Marinating the chicken ahead of time is crucial for maximum flavor. You can marinate the chicken the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just thread the chicken onto the skewers right before grilling.
How long should you marinate tandoori chicken?
While a minimum of 4 hours is recommended, marinating overnight (or even longer) yields the best results. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes. The yogurt in the marinade helps break down the chicken fibers, leading to a more succulent final product.
What sides go well with tandoori chicken skewers?
Tandoori chicken skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, including:
- Naan bread: Perfect for scooping up the flavorful chicken.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt-based condiment that balances the spice of the chicken.
- Cucumber raita: A refreshing side dish that complements the rich flavors of the tandoori chicken.
- Rice: Plain basmati rice or jeera rice are both excellent choices.
- Saag paneer: A creamy spinach and cheese dish that offers a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.
How do you make homemade tandoori masala?
While store-bought tandoori masala is readily available, making your own allows you to control the spice level and ingredients. A basic homemade tandoori masala typically includes chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, ginger powder, garlic powder, and salt. Experiment with different ratios to find your perfect blend.
With its vibrant color, exquisite flavors, and ease of preparation, tandoori chicken skewers are sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delicious journey!
