– **Title**: Grilled Chicken Thighs with Garam Masala
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 2 tablespoons garam masala
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
– **Instructions**:
1. In a bowl, combine garam masala, olive oil, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lemon juice to create a marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and ensure they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes or until the skin is crispy and well-marked.
6. Flip the chicken thighs and grill for another 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you could use chicken breasts or even legs, but adjust cooking times since breasts can dry out more easily.
Garam Masala: This spice blend is key for flavor. If you can’t find it, try mixing equal parts cumin, coriander, and a bit of cinnamon and cardamom for a homemade version.
Plain Yogurt: Yogurt helps tenderize the chicken. Greek yogurt works wonderfully if you like a thicker marinade. If dairy-free, consider coconut yogurt for a similar creaminess.
Fresh Ginger: Grating fresh ginger adds a zing. If you’re in a pinch, you could use ground ginger, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a fresh finish. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions make good alternatives for garnish.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for juicy chicken. A good marinade not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it. Here’s how to make sure it’s effective:
- Mix the marinade well so the spices are fully blended.
- It’s best to marinate the chicken overnight if you can. This helps the flavors penetrate deeply.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. It helps in even cooking.
Also, be careful not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. Resting the chicken after grilling will keep it juicy!
Grilled Chicken Thighs with Garam Masala
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you should marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor. Once it’s marinated, grilling takes about 15 minutes. So plan for a total of about 2 hours and 30 minutes, mainly for marinating, plus grilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the garam masala, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, minced garlic, grated ginger, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil. Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything well until it forms a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for even more flavorful chicken!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Season the thighs with salt and pepper to taste. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and they have nice grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! If you like, slice the chicken into pieces and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken breast, just keep in mind that it cooks a bit faster, so adjust your grilling time to about 5-6 minutes per side. You may also want to brine the chicken breasts beforehand to keep them juicy, as they can dry out easier than thighs.
Can I Marinate for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for even more flavor. Just be cautious not to marinate for much longer than that, as the acids in the yogurt and lemon juice can begin to break down the chicken and affect its texture.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet to avoid drying it out. Adding a splash of broth can help keep it moist.
What Sides Pair Well with Grilled Chicken Thighs?
This dish goes wonderfully with naan or basmati rice to soak up the flavors. You could also serve it with a refreshing cucumber salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal!
