Marinated Chicken (Tandoori)
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Tandoori Chicken is a classic North Indian dish where chicken is marinated in a vibrant mixture of yogurt and spices, then traditionally cooked in a tandoor, a cylindrical clay oven. The marinade typically includes yogurt, lemon juice, and a blend of spices like garam masala, cumin, coriander, and the iconic Kashmiri red chili powder or food coloring that gives it a signature red hue. It's a staple of Punjabi cuisine and a popular appetizer or main course worldwide.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a high-protein, relatively low-carbohydrate meal, with the yogurt marinade contributing some healthy fats. A typical serving (about 100-150g of cooked chicken) provides a good source of lean protein, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium, and generally ranges from 200 to 300 calories, depending on the cut of chicken and the amount of oil used.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the dish is a direct result of the tandoor cooking method, which imparts a unique smoky flavor and char that's difficult to replicate. Nutritionally, the yogurt in the marinade acts as a natural tenderizer, breaking down the chicken's proteins to create a remarkably juicy texture while also adding probiotics.