Chicken Tangri Kebab Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Delicious, Flavorful Kebabs
When it comes to Indian cuisine, kebabs are a beloved dish enjoyed by people across the world. Among the many varieties of kebabs, Chicken Tangri Kebab holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers. This irresistible dish, made from chicken drumsticks, is marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy, flavorful treat that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course.
The Chicken Tangri Kebab stands out because of its tender meat and smoky flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, serving a family dinner, or preparing a special meal for a celebration, these kebabs will be a crowd favorite. But what makes this dish even better is how simple it is to prepare. With the right marination, grilling, or roasting technique, you can make this delicious dish right in your kitchen.
In this article, we will take you through the Chicken Tangri Kebab recipe, providing step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to help you create the perfect kebabs at home. Let’s dive in!
What is Chicken Tangri Kebab?
Chicken Tangri Kebab is a popular Indian appetizer made from chicken drumsticks, marinated in a rich blend of spices and yogurt, and then grilled or baked until it’s tender and juicy. The term “Tangri” comes from the word ‘tangra’, meaning a drumstick in Hindi, which refers to the piece of chicken used in this dish.
The marination process is key to achieving tender, flavorful chicken. The yogurt not only helps tenderize the chicken but also imparts a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the spices. The kebabs are typically flavored with a combination of garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, and lemon juice, giving them a tantalizing taste.
This dish is commonly served as an appetizer or snack during festive occasions, weddings, and parties, but it can also be enjoyed as a main course with naan or rice. The smoky aroma of the grilled chicken adds a special touch that makes Chicken Tangri Kebab so irresistible.
Ingredients for Chicken Tangri Kebab
Let’s start with the ingredients that you’ll need for preparing Chicken Tangri Kebab. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how simple yet flavorful these ingredients are.
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 6-8 chicken drumsticks (tangri)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil or olive oil
- Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), finely chopped (for garnish)
For Grilling / Roasting:
- 1 tablespoon oil (for greasing)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for basting)
Optional Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped onions
- Chaat masala (optional for sprinkling)
Step-by-Step Chicken Tangri Kebab Recipe
Now that we have the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Chicken Tangri Kebab.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
The first step in making Chicken Tangri Kebab is to prepare the chicken drumsticks. Wash the drumsticks thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken ensures that the marinade sticks to the meat properly.
To ensure the spices penetrate deep into the chicken, make a few shallow slits on each drumstick using a sharp knife. This allows the marinade to soak into the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder. Stir well until the spices are thoroughly combined into the yogurt.
Add mustard oil or olive oil to the marinade and mix well. The oil helps in adding richness to the marinade and also helps in the grilling process.
Taste the marinade and adjust the salt as needed. If you like a spicier marinade, you can increase the amount of chili powder.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and coat them thoroughly with the spice mixture. Massage the marinade into the slits you made on the chicken to ensure the flavors penetrate deep into the meat.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
Step 4: Prepare for Grilling or Roasting
Preheat your grill or oven to 180°C (350°F). If using an oven, line a baking tray with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lightly grease the grill or tray with a bit of oil or butter to prevent the chicken from sticking.
If you’re using a grill, you can cook the chicken over medium-high heat for about 25-30 minutes, turning the drumsticks every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking. If you’re using a regular oven, place the chicken on a rack over the baking tray and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is slightly charred and crispy.
Step 5: Baste and Flip (Optional)
To get an even crispier and juicier kebab, you can baste the chicken with melted butter or oil during grilling or roasting. This step helps keep the chicken moist and adds an extra layer of richness to the kebabs. Baste the chicken every 10 minutes for the best results.
Step 6: Serve the Chicken Tangri Kebab
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the grill or oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to settle inside the chicken, ensuring that each bite is juicy and tender.
Garnish the chicken tangri kebabs with fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) and serve with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and a sprinkle of chaat masala (if desired). The acidity of the lemon and the coolness of the onions balance the spicy and smoky flavors of the kebabs beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tangri Kebab
- Marinate Well: The key to a great Chicken Tangri Kebab is in the marination. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will become.
- Use Full-Fat Yogurt: For the best texture and flavor, use full-fat yogurt in the marinade. It makes the chicken tender and adds a creamy texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry. If using a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
- Grill or Roast for Smokiness: If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling the chicken on a charcoal grill or using a tandoor is ideal. If cooking in the oven, you can achieve a smoky flavor by placing the chicken under the broiler for the last 5 minutes.
- Use Fresh Spices: Always use fresh, high-quality spices for the marinade to get the best flavor. Freshly ground spices, such as cumin and coriander, add a wonderful depth to the kebabs.
Variations of Chicken Tangri Kebab
While the classic recipe is delicious, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste preferences:
1. Spicy Chicken Tangri Kebab
Increase the quantity of green chilies, red chili powder, and black pepper to make your kebabs spicier. You can also add a bit of chili paste for an extra kick.
2. Malai Chicken Tangri Kebab
For a creamy, rich flavor, add fresh cream or cashew paste to the marinade. This variation makes the chicken soft, succulent, and rich in taste.
3. Tandoori Chicken Tangri Kebab
To replicate the smoky flavors of a tandoor, cook your tangri kebabs in a tandoor or use a tandoori masala for the marinade. This version is perfect for those who love the flavors of traditional tandoori kebabs.
4. Lemon & Herb Chicken Tangri Kebab
For a lighter, zesty version, marinate the chicken with lemon zest, herbs (such as rosemary and thyme), and a bit of garlic for a fragrant, fresh flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Tangri Kebab
Chicken Tangri Kebabs are not only delicious but also quite nutritious. Here’s how:
- High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Low in Carbs: Since Chicken Tangri Kebabs are primarily made from chicken and spices, they are low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb diets.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken is a good source of B vitamins, such as niacin and vitamin B6, which are important for energy metabolism. The addition of lemon juice and cilantro also adds vitamin C.
FAQs About Chicken Tangri Kebab
- Can I make Chicken Tangri Kebab without a grill?
- Yes! You can bake the kebabs in the oven or cook them in a stovetop pan. For the best results, use a grill pan for a charred effect.
- Can I use boneless chicken for tangri kebabs?
- Tangri kebabs are traditionally made with bone-in chicken drumsticks for their flavor and juiciness. However, you can use boneless chicken thighs if preferred.
- Can I freeze Chicken Tangri Kebab?
- Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to a month. Once you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken and grill or bake it.
Conclusion
Chicken Tangri Kebab is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the perfect combination of spices, tenderness, and smokiness. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or simply craving a delicious snack, these kebabs are sure to impress. With the right marinade and cooking techniques, you can easily recreate this mouthwatering dish at home.
Now that you have the recipe and tips for making perfect Chicken Tangri Kebab, why not give it a try and enjoy a plate of these flavorful, juicy kebabs? Happy cooking!
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