This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Indian chicken tikka to a convenient and delicious sandwich. Tender, marinated chicken tikka, bursting with aromatic spices, is nestled between slices of bread with refreshing toppings, creating a symphony of tastes and textures. It’s a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and fresh, ideal for a quick lunch or a satisfying light dinner.
Imagine succulent chicken pieces, marinated in a rich blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and a medley of spices like tandoori masala, garam masala, and red chili powder. These chicken pieces are then cooked to perfection, achieving a delightful char while remaining juicy and flavorful. This forms the heart of our sandwich. We then layer this flavorful chicken tikka between slices of bread (you can choose your favorite – white, whole wheat, or even naan for an authentic touch). To complement the spiciness of the chicken, we add a smear of cooling mint-coriander chutney and creamy mayonnaise. Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite, while cucumber slices provide a refreshing crunch. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a touch of herbaceousness, completing this culinary masterpiece
Preparation Time
45 Minutes
Serve
4 -5 person
- For the Chicken Tikka:
- 1 lb boneless, cskinless hicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes: Provides the protein base of the sandwich.
- 1 cup plain yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste: A cornerstone of Indian cuisine, adding aromatic depth.
- 1 tbsp tandoori masala powder: A spice blend that gives the chicken its signature red color and flavor.
- 1 tsp garam masala: A blend of warm spices adding complexity.
- 1 tsp red chili powder: Adds heat and color. Adjust to your spice preference.
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder: Adds color and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil: For cooking the chicken.
- For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or naan): Your choice of bread to hold the filling.
- 1/4 cup mint-coriander chutney: A refreshing and cooling accompaniment.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness.
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion: Adds a sharp, pungent flavor.
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber: Provides a cooling crunch.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and combining ingredients.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurements of spices and liquids.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing the chicken and vegetables.
- Large Skillet or Pan: For cooking the chicken tikka. A cast iron skillet works well for achieving a good sear.
- Spatula: For flipping and handling the chicken while cooking.
- Bread Knife (optional): For slicing bread if needed.
- Serving Plates or Platters: For presenting the finished sandwiches.
- Optional: Griddle or Panini Press: For toasting the sandwiches.
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala powder, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Add the chicken cubes and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it is cooked through and slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes. This will depend on the size of your chicken pieces. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the sandwich: Spread mint-coriander chutney on one slice of bread and mayonnaise on the other. Layer the cooked chicken tikka on one of the slices, followed by red onion and cucumber slices. Top with the other slice of bread.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the sandwich with chopped cilantro. You can also lightly toast the sandwich on a griddle or in a panini press for a warm and crispy texture. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!
- This sandwich is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas:
- Classic Sandwich: Simply cut the assembled sandwich in half diagonally and serve on a plate. This is the most common and convenient method.
- Open-Faced Sandwich: Serve the sandwich open-faced, with the chicken tikka and toppings displayed on one slice of bread. This presentation can be visually appealing.
- Cut into Smaller Portions: Cut the sandwich into smaller pieces or triangles for appetizers or party snacks. You can secure the pieces with toothpicks.
- Served with Sides: Enhance the meal by serving the sandwich with complementary sides. Some good options include:
- Spice it up: For a spicier sandwich, add more red chili powder or a few drops of hot sauce to the chicken marinade.
- Veggie boost: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or lettuce for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Chutney alternatives: If you don't have mint-coriander chutney, use store-bought chutney or make your own by blending mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger, and lemon juice.
- Bread choices: Feel free to experiment with different bread types. Naan bread is a popular and authentic choice, but pita bread, ciabatta, or even a croissant can be delicious.
- Healthier twist: Use whole wheat bread and low-fat mayonnaise for a lighter version.
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