Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread is a unique twist on classic garlic bread, combining the aromatic spices of tandoori chicken with the rich flavor of garlic-infused bread. The tender chicken, marinated in yogurt and spices, is paired perfectly with a crispy, buttery garlic bread that will surely be a hit at your next meal. This dish is both indulgent and flavorful, making it a great option for a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Whether you're a fan of tandoori chicken or just love garlic bread, this fusion dish will not disappoint.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless chicken breasts

• ½ cup yogurt

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tablespoon tandoori masala

• ½ teaspoon red chili powder

• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

• Salt to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (preferably French or Italian)

• ¼ cup butter, softened

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

2. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

3. Prepare the Garlic Bread: While the chicken is resting, slice the loaf of bread into thick slices. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each slice of bread. If you like, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

4. Toast the Garlic Bread: Place the garlic bread slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy.

5. Assemble the Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread: Once the garlic bread is toasted, top each slice with the sliced tandoori chicken. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes 4-6 servings, depending on portion sizes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding marination time)

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including marination)

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Spicy Version: Add extra red chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade for an added kick.

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add more cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to the garlic butter before baking for a cheesy garlic bread experience.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bread as a base for a gluten-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the garlic bread and chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. For best results, avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.

FAQs

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

For more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight if possible. You can also experiment by adding different spices like garam masala or cumin to the marinade.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I use store-bought garlic bread?

Absolutely! If you're short on time, you can use pre-made garlic bread and top it with the grilled tandoori chicken for a quicker version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and prepare the garlic bread separately, but it's best to assemble and serve the dish fresh for the best taste and texture.

How do I grill the chicken if I don't have a grill?

If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked, or cook it on a stovetop grill pan.

Can I use a different bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any bread of your choice, but a crusty French or Italian loaf works best for holding the garlic butter and chicken toppings.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, increase the amount of red chili powder or add some chopped fresh green chilies to the chicken marinade.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it's best served fresh, you can freeze the grilled tandoori chicken separately for up to 1 month. However, the garlic bread may lose its crispness upon freezing and reheating.

Can I make this recipe without yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute the yogurt with sour cream or buttermilk for a slightly different flavor but still a tender texture for the chicken.

Conclusion

Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread is a delicious fusion dish that brings together the best of Indian spices and classic comfort food. With its rich flavors, crispy texture, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual meal or a special gathering, it's a unique and irresistible treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds.