DifficultyIntermediate

TANDOORI-STYLE CHICKEN WITH OLYMPUS

This recipe combines the intensity of Middle Eastern spices with the Mediterranean freshness of Olympus Greek yoghurt and an original melon relish. The tandoori-style chicken is juicy and well-balanced, creating a dish full of contrasts that’s perfect for impressing guests on any occasion.

Prep Time20 minsCook Time15 minsTotal Time35 mins

Ingredients

1/2 cup OLYMPUS low-fat natural yoghurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice, divided

1/2 tablespoon garam masala or curry powder

1/2 tablespoon salt

1/4 to 1/2 tablespoon crushed red chilli flakes

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (6 ounces each)

1/2 cup chopped melon

1/2 cup of peeled, deseeded and chopped cucumber

2 spring onions, finely chopped

2 tablespoons of chopped fresh coriander

1 tablespoon of chopped fresh mint

1/4 cup of toasted sliced almonds (optional)

Produced with Olympus

In a bowl, mix together the OLYMPUS yoghurt, a tablespoon of lemon juice, garam masala, salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. Pour 1 cup of the marinade into a large bowl. Add the chicken; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for up to 6 hours. Cover and refrigerate the remaining marinade.

To serve, mix the melon, cucumber, spring onions, coriander, mint and the remaining lemon juice in a small bowl.

Drain the chicken and discard the marinade into a bowl. Cook the chicken, covered, on a greased grill rack. Place it over a medium heat or 10 cm from the heat source. Grill until it reaches 165°C. Cook for about 6–8 minutes on each side. Serve with the seasoning and the reserved marinade. If desired, sprinkle with almonds.

The contrast of flavours that makes this recipe so special

One of the most interesting features of this tandoori-style chicken is the combination of very different flavours in a single dish. On the one hand, there is the aromatic character of the garam masala, the slight heat of the red chilli flakes and the tang of the lemon.

On the other hand, the yoghurt adds creaminess and smoothness, whilst the relish introduces fresh, slightly sweet notes thanks to the melon. Coriander and mint round off the dish with their herbal aromas.

This combination results in a well-balanced dish, in which none of the accompaniments overshadows the chicken.

Ideas for serving tandoori-style chicken

The presentation can be simple yet elegant. Place a portion of chicken in the centre of the plate and arrange the melon relish around it or to one side, allowing the different colours of the ingredients to stand out.

Toasted flaked almonds are optional, but they add a crunchy contrast that complements the tender texture of the chicken. You can also finish the dish with a few leaves of coriander or fresh mint to enhance its aromatic qualities.

As this is a recipe featuring different textures and colours, there’s no need to add too many elements: the chicken, the relish and the fresh herbs are enough to create an attractive presentation.

A different way to enjoy chickeno

Tandoori-style chicken is an interesting alternative to the more common ways of preparing this meat. The marinade allows you to incorporate spices and flavours inspired by the East, whilst the yoghurt and melon relish provide a striking, refreshing Mediterranean contrast.

What’s more, you can prepare part of the recipe in advance: the chicken can be left to marinate in the fridge and the relish can be made whilst you wait. This way, when it’s time to cook, all you need to do is drain the chicken, cook it and assemble the dish.

The result is an aromatic, colourful dish full of contrasts, perfect both for a special meal and for surprising your guests with a different way of preparing chicken.