Tandoori Chicken Over Rice

Craving something bold and flavorful? Tandoori Chicken Over Rice is just the dish to hit all the right notes. This meal takes juicy, marinated chicken coated in aromatic tandoori spices, grills it to perfection, and serves it on a bed of fluffy rice for the ultimate comfort food. Every bite is a mix of smoky, savory goodness, with a burst of rich, tangy flavor from the marinade. Trust me, this one’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or serving it up at a weekend gathering, it’s sure to steal the show.

Why You’ll Love Tandoori Chicken Over Rice

Flavors that Pop: Tandoori chicken is famous for its complex blend of spices—cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, just to name a few. When grilled, these spices create a smoky, charred crust that’s nothing short of irresistible.

Easy to Make: Sure, tandoori chicken might sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! With a simple marinade and a few basic steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish in no time.

Healthy and Hearty: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the rice, this meal will keep you full and satisfied without feeling heavy.

Customizable: Want to adjust the spice level? No problem! You can tone down the heat for a milder flavor, or add extra chili powder for that fiery kick you love.

Comforting: The warm rice acts as the perfect base to soak up all the delicious juices from the tandoori chicken, making it the perfect hearty meal for any night.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible dish:

For the Tandoori Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts work just as well!
• Plain yogurt: The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken and gives the marinade its creamy texture.
• Lemon juice: Adds a fresh tang to balance the rich flavors.
• Fresh garlic and ginger: These aromatic ingredients bring a deep, savory flavor to the marinade.
• Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, chili powder: These spices are the heart and soul of tandoori chicken, giving it that bold and aromatic flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning the chicken to perfection.
• Olive oil: To help the marinade stick to the chicken and ensure it doesn’t dry out while cooking.

For the Rice:

• Long-grain white rice: A fluffy, non-sticky base to serve under your tandoori chicken.
• Water or chicken broth: For cooking the rice and infusing it with a little extra flavor.
• Butter or oil: Adds richness to the rice.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and all your spices—cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and chili powder. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Add the chicken to the marinade and coat it evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours if you want even more flavor!).

2. Cook the Rice

While the chicken marinates, cook your rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or chicken broth for more flavor) to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in a little butter or oil for extra richness.

3. Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking. Once the grill is hot, cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is beautifully charred and cooked through.

4. Serve

To serve, spoon the cooked rice onto plates and top with the grilled tandoori chicken. You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lemon, or even a side of cool, tangy raita to balance the spice!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 460
Total Fat: 17g

• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 125mg
  Sodium: 400mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
  Protein: 38g
  Vitamin A: 8%
  Vitamin C: 12%
  Calcium: 8%
  Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

How to Serve Tandoori Chicken Over Rice

With a Side of Raita: Cooling raita (a yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, mint, and spices) is a perfect complement to the spiced chicken. It helps balance the heat and adds a refreshing element.

With Naan Bread: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve this dish with warm naan bread. It’s perfect for scooping up any sauce or rice.

Steamed Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or green beans are a great side dish to add more nutrients and color to your plate.

Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber or tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil adds a nice lightness to the meal.

Additional Tips

Spice Adjustments: If you like it spicier, feel free to add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade. If you prefer a milder flavor, cut back on the chili powder.

Make it in the Oven: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before or early in the day to let those flavors really soak in. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Double the Rice: If you want leftovers, feel free to double the rice! The rice is a great side for other meals too.

Leftovers: If you have leftover chicken, it’s perfect for wraps, salads, or even mixed with a little yogurt for a quick snack.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A1: Yes, you can! Chicken breasts will work fine, though they may dry out a little quicker than thighs, so be sure to watch them carefully while grilling.

Q2: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A2: Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the day before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it on the grill or bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: Can I make this without a grill?

A3: Yes! You can cook the chicken in a grill pan or even bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Just be sure to flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking.

Q4: Can I use frozen chicken?

A4: It’s best to thaw the chicken before marinating it for the best results. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Q5: How can I make this recipe spicier?

A5: If you love heat, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top after cooking!

Q6: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A6: Yes! Swap the chicken for cauliflower or paneer (Indian cheese) for a vegetarian version. Just marinate and cook them the same way.

Q7: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A7: Of course! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just note that it will take longer to cook than white rice.

Q8: Can I add vegetables to the rice?

A8: Yes, you can stir in some cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers into the rice for added flavor and nutrition.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?

A9: Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep the rice from drying out.

Q10: Can I freeze this meal?

A10: Yes, you can freeze the chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

Conclusion

Tandoori Chicken Over Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. With its perfect balance of spices, tender chicken, and comforting rice, it’s the ideal meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or sharing it with friends, this dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and savor every bite!

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