Grilled Tandoori Chicken with Indian-Style Rice

Mastering the Art of Indoor Tandoor Grill: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Grilled Tandoori Chicken

Cooking tandoori chicken with an indoor tandoor grill is a fantastic way to enjoy one of the most flavorful and healthy dishes right at home. Tandoori chicken has gained fame worldwide for its smoky flavor, tender meat, and rich spices. Although popular in places like India, the USA, and Canada, many versions of this dish can often turn out dry or flavorless if not done correctly. The secret to juicy and mouth-watering tandoori chicken lies in the right technique and the right equipment. Our step-by-step guide will help you create the perfect tandoori chicken using Tandoor Morni’s top-notch indoor tandoor grill.

Why Tandoori Chicken Can Be Tricky to Perfect

Tandoori chicken is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, but mastering it can be a bit challenging. We have all enjoyed it countless times at Indian restaurants across different countries, from the busy streets of Mumbai to cozy eateries in New York or Toronto. It’s a dish that appears on buffets, in sit-down restaurants, and even at backyard barbecues. Yet, not every experience is the same.

Getting tandoori chicken just right requires a blend of the perfect marinade, proper cooking technique, and quality equipment. Even if you have tried making it on a barbecue, there’s something special about using an indoor tandoor grill. With Tandoor Morni’s top-quality grills, you can replicate the authentic flavors and textures at home, no matter the season.

What Makes the Indoor Tandoor Grill So Special?

An indoor tandoor grill brings the magic of a traditional tandoor oven into your home. Unlike regular ovens or barbecues, it cooks the chicken evenly from all sides, sealing in the juices while giving it that signature charred flavor. The grill’s high heat keeps the nutrients intact, making the dish not only delicious but also healthier.

Whether it’s winter or summer, the indoor tandoor grill allows you to enjoy the taste of authentic tandoori chicken whenever you want. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even quick weeknight meals.

Getting Started: Ingredients for Juicy Tandoori Chicken

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential ingredients. A good marinade is crucial for flavorful tandoori chicken, and the spices will create a rich and aromatic experience.

Ingredients for  Grilled Tandoori Chicken

• • 2 lemons (squeezed)

• • 4 teaspoons of paprika

• • 16 pieces of skinless chicken thighs

• • 2 red onions (finely sliced)

• • Vegetable oil (for brushing)

• • 300 ml of yogurt (for the marinade)

• • A large chunk of grated ginger

• • 4 smashed garlic cloves

• • 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala

• • 3/4 teaspoon of ground cumin

• • 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder

• • 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric

Ingredients for Jeera Rice

• • 2 cups of basmati rice

• • Cinnamon stick

• • Cloves

• • Cumin seeds

• • Butter, oil, or ghee (for frying the spices)

• • Frozen peas (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

Start by mixing all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, paprika, garam masala, cumin, chili powder, and turmeric. Stir well to ensure all the spices blend evenly.

Step 2: Preparing the Chicken

Use a sharp knife to make slits in the chicken thighs. Three slits on each drumstick and four to five slits on each thigh should be enough. This step allows the marinade to soak deeply into the meat, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. For best results, remove the skin before marinating. The slits help the spices penetrate the meat and also speed up the cooking process.

Step 3: Marinating the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 16 hours. This long marinating time is crucial for the flavors to infuse into the meat. If possible, prepare the marinade the night before and let the chicken rest in the refrigerator overnight.

Step 4: Preparing the Indoor Tandoor Grill

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator about three to four hours before cooking. Letting it come to room temperature helps it cook more evenly. Preheat the indoor tandoor grill for about 15-20 minutes. It should be hot enough to sear the chicken quickly, sealing in the juices and adding that beautiful charred look.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken on the Indoor Tandoor Grill

Thread the chicken onto grilling skewers, shaking off any excess marinade. Place the skewers in the indoor tandoor grill. Cook the chicken with the grill’s lid closed, but keep a close watch. Excessive smoke can mean the chicken is charring too quickly, so be ready to turn the skewers as needed. The chicken should be rotated frequently to ensure it cooks evenly. In total, it will take about 45 minutes for the chicken to be perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Checking for Doneness

To check if the chicken is cooked, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C) near the bone. Once the chicken reaches this temperature, remove it from the indoor tandoor grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 7: Cooking the Jeera Rice

While the chicken cooks, it’s time to prepare the rice. Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the oil, butter, or ghee in a pan. Once hot, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and cumin seeds. Let the spices fry for two to three minutes to release their flavors.

Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Stir the rice for a couple of minutes before transferring it to a rice cooker. Cook the rice until it is tender and fluffy. For an extra touch, mix in some frozen peas during the last two to three minutes of cooking.

Step 8: Serving Suggestions

Serve the tandoori chicken hot alongside the jeera rice. Garnish the dish with fresh cucumber slices, red onion rings, and chopped cilantro for a refreshing touch. The contrast of the smoky chicken with the fragrant rice will delight your taste buds.

Why Choose Tandoor Morni Indoor Tandoor Grill?

Tandoor Morni’s indoor tandoor grill stands out because of its consistent heat, user-friendly design, and quality materials. The grills come in various sizes, making them perfect for different settings, whether you have a small kitchen or a larger cooking space. The heat distribution is even, ensuring every piece of meat cooks thoroughly without drying out. The indoor tandoor grill‘s design also helps achieve the authentic taste of traditional tandoori dishes.

Tips for Getting the Best Results with Your Indoor Tandoor Grill

Using an indoor tandoor grill is simple, but a few tips can make your cooking experience even better:

1. 1. Preheat the Grill Properly: Make sure the grill is hot before placing the chicken inside. Preheating helps sear the meat, locking in the juices and flavors.

1. 1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the spices and meat plays a big role in the flavor. Freshly grated ginger, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and high-quality chicken will give you the best results.

1. 1. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave enough space between each piece of chicken. If the grill is too crowded, the heat won’t circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking.

1. 1. Rotate the Skewers Often: The key to even cooking is to rotate the skewers frequently. This prevents one side from charring too much while the other side remains undercooked.

1. 1. Keep an Eye on the Smoke: Excessive smoke can be a sign that the marinade is burning. If you see too much smoke, lower the heat or rotate the chicken more often.

Exploring Other Recipes with Your Indoor Tandoor Grill

While tandoori chicken is a classic, the indoor tandoor grill can be used for a variety of other dishes. Here are some more ideas to make the most of your grill.

1. Tandoori Fish: Fish cooks quickly on an indoor tandoor grill, making it an excellent choice for a quick meal. Use firm fish like salmon, cod, or halibut. Marinate the fish in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and spices for at least an hour. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through.

2. Grilled Paneer Tikka: For a vegetarian option, paneer tikka is a fantastic choice. Cut the paneer into cubes and marinate with yogurt, spices, and a touch of lemon juice. Thread the cubes onto skewers along with bell peppers and onions. Grill until the paneer gets a light char on all sides.

3. Tandoori Vegetables: Use the indoor tandoor grill to roast vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms. A quick marinade of olive oil, garlic, and spices will add flavor. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, tossing occasionally.

4. Naan Bread: Believe it or not, you can make naan bread with an indoor tandoor grill. The high heat mimics a traditional tandoor oven, giving the bread its characteristic puffiness and charred spots. Roll out the dough, brush with some butter, and place it on the grill for a couple of minutes on each side.

How to Clean and Maintain Your Indoor Tandoor Grill

To keep your indoor tandoor grill in top condition, it’s important to clean and maintain it properly. Here’s a simple cleaning guide to follow after each use:

1. 1. Let the Grill Cool Down: Before cleaning, allow the grill to cool completely to avoid burns.

1. 1. Remove Any Food Residue: Use a brush to scrub off any burnt food or residue from the grill grates. If necessary, soak the grates in warm soapy water for a few minutes.

1. 1. Wipe the Interior: Clean the inside of the grill with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, use a mixture of vinegar and water.

1. 1. Check for Any Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect the grill for signs of wear, especially if it’s used frequently. Make sure all the parts are in good condition and replace any damaged components as needed.

The Health Benefits of Using an Indoor Tandoor Grill

Cooking with an indoor tandoor grill offers numerous health benefits. The grill’s high heat allows food to cook quickly, sealing in nutrients that might otherwise be lost with longer cooking methods. Additionally, the need for minimal oil makes it a healthier option compared to frying or sautéing.

1. Low-Fat Cooking: Since the high heat sears the meat quickly, you can use less oil while still achieving a tender and juicy result. This makes tandoori cooking a great choice for those who want to maintain a balanced diet.
2. Retains Nutrients: The short cooking time helps retain the natural nutrients in the food. Unlike boiling or steaming, which can cause some nutrients to leach out, grilling locks in the vitamins and minerals.
3. Encourages a Balanced Diet: Using an indoor tandoor grill encourages eating a variety of grilled foods, from meats to vegetables. The ability to quickly cook a range of ingredients means more balanced meals that are rich in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients.

Indoor Tandoor Grill: A Must-Have for Home Chefs

For anyone who loves grilling or Indian cuisine, the indoor tandoor grill is an essential addition to the kitchen. It offers the authentic taste of traditional tandoor cooking without needing a large outdoor setup. Tandoor Morni’s grills are known for their quality and performance, providing an easy way to enjoy delicious and healthy meals all year round.

Conclusion

Mastering tandoori chicken with an indoor tandoor grill might seem challenging, but it becomes an enjoyable cooking experience with the right approach. With Tandoor Morni’s quality grills and these simple tips, you can enjoy a variety of delicious grilled dishes anytime. From juicy tandoori chicken to crispy naan bread, the possibilities are endless. So, fire up your indoor tandoor grill, gather your favorite ingredients, and bring the flavors of traditional tandoori cooking into your home. With Tandoor Morni, you’re not just grilling; you’re crafting a culinary experience that combines health, flavor, and tradition in every bite.

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About Tandoor Morni

Tandoor Morni, in business since 1992, is a trusted name in premium Tandoori Clay Ovens, known for crafting high-quality traditional and commercial tandoors. With a commitment to excellence, Tandoor Morni offers a wide range of tandoors, including commercial, residential, catering, and copper models. Our tandoors are built with durable materials and designed for efficient heat distribution, ensuring authentic flavors and fast cooking. Each oven features customizable options like gas, wood fire, or charcoal compatibility, making them suitable for various cooking needs.