The Tandoori Chicken Burger is a fusion masterpiece that brings together the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine with the comfort and familiarity of a classic burger. Traditionally, tandoori chicken is a staple of North Indian cooking, known for its deep, smoky essence, vibrant red hue, and perfect balance of heat and tang. By transforming this beloved dish into a burger, this recipe offers a creative and accessible way to enjoy authentic Indian flavors in a whole new form.
At the heart of this burger is tandoori chicken, a dish that dates back centuries to the Mughal era, when meats were marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture and cooked in a tandoor (a clay oven that reaches high temperatures). This method not only imparts a signature charred flavor but also ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy. The marinade, rich in tandoori masala, cumin, and ginger-garlic paste, allows the chicken to absorb layers of flavor, creating a dish that is smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy all at once.
A refreshing mint yogurt sauce is added to complement the boldness of the tandoori chicken. Yogurt-based chutneys and sauces have long been used in Indian cuisine to balance out the heat of spiced dishes. The mint yogurt sauce in this recipe provides a cooling contrast to the chicken, enhancing every bite with a creamy, herbaceous freshness. The combination of mint, lemon juice, and cumin not only elevates the taste but also brings a touch of traditional Indian street food flair.
The choice of brioche burger buns adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced chicken, while crisp lettuce, cool cucumber slices, and crunchy red onion bring texture and a burst of freshness. This burger isn’t just about indulgence—it’s a well-balanced meal with layers of flavors and textures that work in harmony.
One of the great things about this recipe is its adaptability. While grilling is the recommended cooking method to replicate the tandoor’s smokiness, you can also cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or bake it in an oven if grilling isn’t an option. Additionally, the spice levels can be adjusted according to personal preference, making it easy to customize to suit different taste buds.
For those looking to meal prep, this recipe is a fantastic option. The chicken can be marinated overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen, and the mint yogurt sauce can be made in advance for easy assembly. The result is a quick, yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking to try something new, this Spice-Packed Tandoori Chicken Burger is a must-try. It captures the essence of traditional Indian flavors while offering the convenience of a modern burger. Serve it with sweet potato fries, masala-spiced potato wedges, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Indian Tandoori Chicken Burger
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 500 g chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 200 ml plain yogurt full-fat recommended
- 2 tbsp tandoori masala preferably homemade or a reputable brand
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp cumin powder
For the Burger
- 4 pieces burger buns preferably brioche
- 1 cup cucumber slices
- 1 cup lettuce leaves crisped
- ½ cup red onion sliced into rings
- ½ cup mint yogurt sauce recipe below
Mint Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken. In a large bowl, combine 200 ml of plain yogurt, 2 tbsp tandoori masala, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp lemon juice, and salt to taste. Add the 500 g of chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Mint Yogurt Sauce. Mix 1 cup of plain yogurt with 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, and salt to taste. Refrigerate until needed.
- Grill the Chicken. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (approximately 200°C / 400°F). Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and grill each piece for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked with a charred exterior and an internal temperature of 75°C / 165°F.
- Assemble the Burgers. Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill. On the bottom half of each bun, place a lettuce leaf, followed by a grilled chicken thigh, cucumber slices, red onion rings, and a generous dollop of mint yogurt sauce. Top with the remaining half of the bun.