Tandoori chicken and garlic bread are both beloved dishes in their own right, but when combined, they create a mouthwatering fusion that is sure to impress. This Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread is a delightful twist on the classic garlic bread, infused with the aromatic spices of tandoori chicken. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a unique appetizer, or simply craving something different, this recipe is a must-try. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious dish, offer helpful tips, explore variations, and answer some frequently asked questions. Plus, we’ll cover how to make it ahead of time, freezing options, and storage tips.

How to Make Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala spice mix
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 loaf of Italian or French bread
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the marinated chicken thighs on it.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Remove from the oven and let the chicken cool slightly. Once cooled, shred the chicken into small pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Assemble the Garlic Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. Spread the garlic butter evenly over both halves of the bread.
4. Sprinkle the shredded chicken evenly over the buttered bread.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Garlic Bread

1. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice the garlic bread into individual servings.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious combination of tandoori chicken and garlic bread.

Helpful Tip!

• Marinate Longer: For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for varied flavors.

Variations of this Recipe

1. Spicy Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread

• Ingredients: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
• Tip: Use pepper jack cheese to enhance the spicy flavor.

2. Herb-Infused Garlic Bread

• Ingredients: Add a tablespoon of dried oregano and a teaspoon of dried basil to the garlic butter.
• Tip: Use fresh basil leaves as a garnish for added freshness.

3. Cheesy Jalapeño Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread

• Ingredients: Include sliced jalapeños in the chicken mixture and use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
• Tip: Add a few drops of hot sauce to the chicken for an extra kick.

4. Mushroom and Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread

• Ingredients: Sauté sliced mushrooms with a bit of garlic and add them to the chicken mixture.
• Tip: Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a rich taste.

5. Vegetarian Tandoori Garlic Bread

• Ingredients: Replace the chicken with paneer or tofu and marinate it in the same tandoori spices.
• Tip: Add roasted bell peppers and onions for a vegetarian twist.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.

2. How do I store leftover garlic bread?

Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze the garlic bread?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked garlic bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time, covering with foil for the first half of the baking process.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with paneer or tofu and marinate it in the same tandoori spices. Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers and onions for a vegetarian version.

5. What can I serve with Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread?

This garlic bread pairs well with a side of yogurt dip or a fresh salad. It can also be served as a main dish with a side of soup or curry.

---

Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the best of both worlds: the spicy, aromatic flavors of tandoori chicken and the comforting, buttery taste of garlic bread. With the variations, tips, and storage options provided, you can customize and enjoy this dish in a way that best suits your preferences. So go ahead, give it a try, and savor the delightful fusion of flavors in every bite.