Tandoori Chicken Strips

Tandoori Chicken Strips are a popular dish made with marinated chicken that is cooked in a tandoor, which is a traditional clay oven used in Indian cuisine. The chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of yogurt and a blend of spices, giving it a vibrant red color and a distinct flavor.

To make Tandoori Chicken Strips, boneless chicken breasts are cut into thin strips or strips of chicken tenders are used. The chicken is then marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala powder, ginger-garlic paste, and a combination of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, salt, and sometimes cayenne pepper for added heat. The marinade helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Traditionally, Tandoori Chicken Strips are cooked in a tandoor oven, which gives them a smoky flavor and a slightly charred exterior. However, they can also be prepared on a grill or in an oven. Grilling or baking the marinated chicken strips results in juicy, flavorful chicken with a slight charred or grilled appearance.

Tandoori Chicken Strips are versatile and can be served in various ways. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, served as a main course with a side of rice and naan bread, used as a filling in wraps or sandwiches, or added to salads for a protein-rich option. They are often garnished with fresh cilantro and served with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken, which adds a bright, citrusy element to the dish.

Tandoori Chicken Strips are loved for their aromatic flavors, tender texture, and vibrant appearance, making them a popular choice in Indian and international cuisine.

Here's a recipe for Tandoori Chicken Strips:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala powder
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala powder, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to form a marinade.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, making sure each strip is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
3. Preheat your grill or preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat.
4. If grilling, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken strips on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have charred grill marks. If using an oven, place the marinated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Once the chicken strips are cooked, remove them from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
6. Garnish the Tandoori Chicken Strips with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, added to wraps or sandwiches, or served with a side of mint chutney or yogurt dip.

Enjoy the flavorful and succulent Tandoori Chicken Strips!