Mum’s Curried Chicken Bake (Tandoori Chicken Curry)

Tandoori Chicken Curry, or Mam's Curried Chicken Bake, is a fusion of traditional Indian spices and homey comfort food. The secret lies in its marinade—a blend of yogurt, tomato paste, ginger, garlic, tandoori masala, and more. This mixture not only infuses the chicken with deep, complex flavors but also tenderizes it, making every bite juicy and succulent.

The baked method allows the flavors to meld together in a way that stovetop cooking simply can’t match. The result? A dish that is both flavorful and convenient to make, perfect for those busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

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• Mum’s Curried Chicken Bake (Tandoori Chicken Curry)
• 📖Printable Recipe:
• Mum’s Curried Chicken Bake (Tandoori Chicken Curry)
• 📋Ingredients
• 🔪How Do I Make It?
• 🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
• ⏲️Chef's Tip
• 💭Frequently Asked Questions
• 🥘More Easy Casseroles

Mum’s Curried Chicken Bake (Tandoori Chicken Curry)

🎥Video Recipe:

📖Printable Recipe:

📋Ingredients

• 1 medium chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1 ½ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoon tandoori masala
• 2 teaspoon salt
• 1 whole green chili
• cilantro and lemon for serving

🔪How Do I Make It?

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.

In a bowl add yogurt, onion, tomato paste, ginger, garlic, masala, salt and chili. Blend until smooth.

Mix chicken with yogurt marinade, cover with plastic and let sit in the fridge for 4-6 hours up to overnight.

Next day remove chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for at least an hour. 

Transfer chicken with all of the marinade into a baking pan and bake for 30 minutes under foil, then remove the foil and continue baking for 30 minutes more. 

Serve with lemon slices and cilantro as is or with cooked rice and chapati.

🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?

Rice

Rice is a classic companion to this Tandoori Chicken Bake. The fluffy grains soak up the spicy, tangy marinade, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Basmati rice is often preferred for its fragrant aroma and long grains, but jasmine or even plain white rice works just as well.

Chapati or Naan

For those who prefer bread over rice, chapati or naan is an excellent choice. These soft, chewy flatbreads are perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce. You can buy them pre-made or try your hand at making them from scratch for an authentic experience.

Fresh Salad

A simple salad of cucumber, tomatoes, and onions dressed in lemon juice and olive oil can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy chicken. The crispness of the vegetables adds a delightful crunch, making each bite even more enjoyable.

⏲️Chef's Tip

Marination is Key

One of the most crucial steps in this recipe is marinating the chicken. Allowing the chicken to sit in the yogurt mixture for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply. This not only enhances the taste but also makes the chicken incredibly tender.

Room Temperature Chicken

Before baking, make sure to bring the marinated chicken to room temperature. This step helps the chicken cook more evenly, preventing the outer layer from drying out while the inside remains undercooked.

Baking Under Foil

Start by baking the chicken covered with foil. This traps the moisture, keeping the chicken juicy. Removing the foil halfway through allows the top to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, adding a delightful textural contrast.

💭Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken?

Absolutely! While bone-in pieces add more flavor, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work just as well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless pieces tend to cook faster.

Is there a substitute for tandoori masala?

If you can’t find tandoori masala, you can make a simple spice blend using paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. This will give you a similar flavor profile.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The cooked dish also reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.

How can I make it less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of tandoori masala or skip the red chili powder entirely. Alternatively, adding a bit more yogurt to the marinade can help to balance out the heat without sacrificing the dish’s richness.

Can I add vegetables to the bake?

Certainly! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, potatoes, or cauliflower can enhance the nutritional value and texture of the dish. Simply toss them in the marinade along with the chicken, adjusting seasoning as needed, and bake them together for a complete meal.

What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the dish's delicious flavors and texture. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to a month; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

🥘More Easy Casseroles

Did this easy chicken casserole leave you hungry for more? Me too, friend! Good news for you, I've got some of my family's favorite chicken casseroles gathered together for you right here:

• Chicken Poppy Seed Casserole
• Potato and Chicken Casserole
• Chicken Coconut and Rice Casserole
• Italian Chicken Casserole