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Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread

A cozy and indulgent treat, this Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread combines garlicky bread with smoky, tangy tandoori-spiced chicken for a delicious family meal or festive appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion, Indian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tandoori Chicken
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 ounces) slice thinly; breasts or thighs both work.
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt use Greek yogurt for creaminess, swap for sour cream if you prefer.
  • 2 tablespoons tandoori masala store-bought or homemade for the most authentic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens the marinade.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced fresh garlic for depth.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil plus extra for brushing the bread.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional but lovely for a gentle smoky note.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper taste as you go.
For the Garlic Bread
  • 1 large loaf of French bread or a baguette day-old bread holds up well.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro or parsley to finish.
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced for a crisp, bright contrast.
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or mild melting cheese (optional) for an indulgent topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add thinly sliced chicken and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 10 minutes; if you have 30 minutes, even better.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil.
  2. Sear the chicken slices 2–3 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
  3. Remove and slice into bite-sized pieces.
Preparing Garlic Butter
  1. In a small bowl, combine softened butter with a teaspoon of minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and half the chopped cilantro or parsley. Stir until smooth.
Assembling the Dish
  1. Slice the loaf lengthwise, then score the inside in a diamond pattern.
  2. Spread the garlic butter generously over both halves and brush any remaining butter on the crust.
  3. Layer the sliced tandoori chicken over the buttered bread.
  4. Scatter thin red onion slices and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly if using.
Baking
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the assembled bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges of the bread are golden and crisp.
Finishing Touches
  1. Remove from oven, sprinkle with remaining cilantro, a squeeze of lemon, and a grind of black pepper.
  2. Slice into portions and serve warm.

Notes

You can make healthier options by using whole-wheat bread and low-fat yogurt in the marinade. Make ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor; assemble just before baking.