Frequently Asked Questions
What is Penzeys Inspired Tandoori-Style Grilled Chicken?
It is a vibrant Indian-style dish where chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, citrus, and aromatic spices like cumin, cardamom, and turmeric, then grilled or baked.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor penetration, you should marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 2 to 6 hours.
Can I cook this chicken in the oven?
Yes, you can preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, brown the chicken in a pan for 2-3 minutes per side, and then bake for 11-13 minutes.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
What type of chicken is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts.
What are the main spices used in the marinade?
The spice blend includes sweet Hungarian paprika, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric, ground cardamom, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
What kind of yogurt should I use?
The recipe specifies using 1 cup of plain yogurt for the marinade base.
How much lime juice is needed?
You will need 1/3 cup of fresh lime juice.
What sides go well with Tandoori-Style Grilled Chicken?
It is excellent served with rice, naan bread, and a fresh cucumber salad.
How long does it take to grill the chicken?
On a grill set to medium-high heat, it typically takes about 6-7 minutes per side.
Do I need to use fresh ginger and garlic?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of minced fresh ginger and 3 minced garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Should I let the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to ensure it remains succulent before slicing.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe contains cayenne pepper and mustard powder for a bit of heat, balanced by the yogurt and citrus.
How much salt is in the marinade?
The marinade uses 2 teaspoons of salt.
What is the role of lime zest in this recipe?
Freshly grated lime zest (2-3 teaspoons) adds a bright, aromatic citrus note to the marinade.
Can I use a different type of paprika?
While the recipe specifies sweet Hungarian paprika, you could use standard sweet paprika if necessary.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Combine all marinade ingredients in a large zip-lock bag and massage them together until well combined before adding the chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is ideal for weeknight family meals or summer barbecues and can be marinated ahead of time.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe uses 6 chicken breasts, which typically serves 6 people.
Does this recipe use turmeric?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of turmeric is used to provide both flavor and a traditional golden color.
How much coriander is required?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground coriander.
What heat level should the grill be?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat.
Is cardamom necessary for this dish?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom is a key aromatic component of the tandoori-style flavor profile.
How much cinnamon and cloves are added?
The recipe uses a small amount of warm spices: 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Should I remove excess marinade before cooking?
Yes, when removing the chicken from the bag, let any excess marinade drip off before placing it on the grill or in the pan.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
While designed for chicken breasts, this tandoori-style marinade would also work well with chicken thighs or lamb.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is a healthy option using lean chicken breasts, yogurt, and a variety of antioxidant-rich spices.
What equipment do I need for the oven method?
You will need an oven-proof pan that can transition from the stovetop to the oven.
How much cumin is in the recipe?
The recipe includes 1 teaspoon of ground cumin.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, especially since the recipe also calls for fresh lime zest.