Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Tandoori Chicken Delight?
It is a classic Indian-inspired dish featuring boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a robust blend of spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection.
How many calories are in one serving of this chicken?
This recipe contains approximately 144 calories per serving.
Is this tandoori chicken high in protein?
Yes, it is high in protein, providing 24g per serving.
What type of chicken cut is used for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Why should I make diagonal cuts in the chicken breasts?
Making 3-4 deep diagonal cuts allows the marinade to penetrate deeply into the meat for better flavor and tenderness.
What is the primary liquid used to coat the chicken before marinating?
The chicken is first drizzled with 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What spices are included in the tandoori marinade?
The spice blend includes turmeric, paprika, curry powder, ground cardamom, salt, and chili powder.
Does the recipe require fresh ginger and garlic?
Yes, it uses 2 teaspoons of finely chopped fresh gingerroot and 2 finely chopped garlic cloves.
What kind of yogurt should I use for the marinade?
The recipe recommends using 3/4 cup of plain low-fat yogurt.
How long should the chicken marinate?
The chicken should refrigerate in the marinade for at least 4 hours, though overnight is preferred for maximum flavor.
What is the best way to cook the Spiced Tandoori Chicken?
Grilling on medium-high heat is the recommended cooking method.
How long does the chicken take to grill?
It takes about 12-14 minutes on the grill, turning frequently.
How do I keep the chicken moist while grilling?
Turn the chicken frequently and brush it with extra marinade during the cooking process to maintain moisture.
What should the finished chicken look like?
The chicken should have a slightly charred and blackened exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside.
Is it necessary to rest the chicken after cooking?
Yes, you should cover it with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
What are some recommended side dishes for this recipe?
It is delicious when served with naan bread or a fresh side salad.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 4 grams of fat per serving in this recipe.
Are there many carbohydrates in this tandoori chicken?
No, it is a low-carb option with only 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the purpose of the olive oil in the ingredients?
The olive oil is used for brushing the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Can this recipe be served as a snack?
Yes, its vibrant flavors and tender texture make it perfect for both lunch and snacks.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe calls for 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped.
What is the amount of turmeric used?
You will need 2 teaspoons of ground turmeric for the spice mix.
Is this chicken recipe spicy?
It has an aromatic and tangy profile with a mild heat from 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder.
How much salt is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of salt, or you can adjust to taste.
What amount of paprika is required?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of ground paprika.
Can I use bone-in chicken instead?
While this specific recipe uses boneless breasts, you could adapt it for bone-in chicken, though cooking times would increase significantly.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy recipe featuring lean protein and low-fat yogurt.
What is the role of cardamom in this dish?
Ground cardamom adds a distinct aromatic, sweet-spicy floral note typical of Indian cuisine.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 12 ingredients in this recipe.
What is the best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is ready when it is tender and the juices run clear, usually after 12-14 minutes of grilling.