Spiced Bombay Grilled Chicken
Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Mumbai with this delicious Spiced Bombay Grilled Chicken recipe. Marinated in a tangy blend of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice, this dish infuses your chicken with rich flavors, ensuring a tender and juicy bite every time. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, serve it alongside naan and a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal that celebrates Indian cuisine.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
plain yogurt
1 1/2 cups (none)
lemon juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
chili powder
2 tablespoons (none)
paprika
2 tablespoons (none)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
salt
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
cayenne pepper
1/2-1 teaspoon (to taste)
garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon (none)
ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon (none)
ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon (none)
skinless chicken thighs and legs
4-5 lbs (bone-in, skin removed)
Instructions
1
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, chili powder, paprika, olive oil, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, ground ginger, ground cardamom, and ground cinnamon. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.
2
Add the skinless chicken thighs and legs to the marinade. Seal the bag tightly and gently massage the marinade into the chicken until well coated. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let it marinate overnight to develop the flavors.
3
When ready to cook, preheat your grill over medium-hot heat. Meanwhile, prepare the grill by rubbing the grill rack with oil or spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off before discarding it. Do not rinse the chicken.
5
Place the chicken on the grill, cover it, and cook for about 15 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes, until the internal juices run clear and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6
Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Spiced Bombay Grilled Chicken with your favorite accompaniments!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Bombay Grilled Chicken?
Spiced Bombay Grilled Chicken is an Indian-inspired dish featuring chicken marinated in a tangy blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon.
How long should I marinate the chicken for this recipe?
For the best flavor development and tenderness, the chicken should be marinated in the refrigerator overnight.
What chicken cuts are recommended for Bombay Grilled Chicken?
This recipe calls for 4-5 lbs of bone-in skinless chicken thighs and legs to ensure the meat stays juicy during grilling.
Is this grilled chicken recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a medium spice level due to the chili powder and cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the cayenne to your taste preference.
What are the primary ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of plain yogurt, lemon juice, chili powder, paprika, olive oil, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, ground ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon.
What temperature should the chicken reach when cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Prepare your grill by rubbing the rack with oil or using a high-heat cooking spray before adding the chicken.
Should I rinse the chicken after removing it from the marinade?
No, do not rinse the chicken. Simply let any excess marinade drip off before placing it on the grill.
What is the total grilling time for this recipe?
The chicken typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes total on the grill, flipping halfway through.
What should I serve with Spiced Bombay Grilled Chicken?
It pairs perfectly with naan bread and a fresh cucumber salad for a traditional Indian-style meal.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but keep in mind that they cook faster and may be less juicy than thighs and legs.
Why is yogurt used in the marinade?
Yogurt acts as a natural tenderizer thanks to its lactic acid, which helps break down the meat fibers for a softer texture.
Do I need to leave the skin on the chicken?
This recipe specifically recommends using skinless chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate the meat directly.
What grill heat setting is best?
A medium-hot heat setting is recommended to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning the exterior spices.
Can I use fresh ginger and garlic?
While the recipe calls for garlic powder and ground ginger for convenience, you can substitute with fresh minced versions for a more intense flavor.
How much cayenne pepper should I use?
The recipe suggests 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, depending on how much heat you enjoy.
Can I bake this chicken in an oven?
Yes, if a grill is unavailable, you can bake it at 400°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients for the chicken and marinade are naturally gluten-free.
How do I store leftover grilled chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Should I cover the grill while cooking?
Yes, covering the grill helps maintain a consistent temperature and ensures the bone-in chicken cooks evenly.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade bag for up to 3 months; thaw it in the fridge before grilling.
Why let the chicken rest after grilling?
Resting for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken is moist when you bite into it.
What kind of oil is best for the marinade?
The recipe calls for olive oil, which helps carry the spice flavors and prevents the chicken from drying out.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a high-protein, low-carb dish that uses healthy fats and spices instead of heavy sauces.
What if I don't have cardamom?
If you lack cardamom, you can add a little extra cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to maintain the warm spice profile.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What is the origin of this dish?
The recipe is inspired by the vibrant street food and culinary traditions of Mumbai (formerly Bombay), India.
How many servings does 4-5 lbs of chicken provide?
Depending on the size of the pieces, this recipe generally serves about 6 to 8 people.
Can I make this with boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time significantly as boneless pieces cook much faster than bone-in cuts.
Is Greek yogurt okay to use?
Yes, Greek yogurt works well, though you may need to add a splash of water if the marinade is too thick.