The 4 Best Tandoori Chicken Spots in Brampton [2024]

Tandoori chicken, as the name suggests, is typically made using a traditional tandoor or clay oven. The primary ingredients include chicken, usually bone-in, and a marinade composed of yogurt and a blend of spices such as turmeric, cayenne pepper or Kashmiri red chilli (for its distinct red colour), coriander, cumin, garam masala, and garlic and ginger paste. Additionally, a few squeezes of lemon juice and vegetable oil are usually added for added flavour and moisture.

Tandoori chicken can be considered a healthier choice among other types of dishes as it’s low in fat and high in protein because it’s made from skinless pieces of chicken. The cooking method in a tandoor also means there’s no additional oil needed since it’s cooked in its own juices. Additionally, the spices and yoghourt in the marinade offer various health benefits including aiding digestion, providing antioxidants, and even potentially reducing inflammation.

While tandoori chicken is known for its bold and aromatic flavours, it’s not typically very spicy. It’s the blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric that give the dish its rich flavour rather than heat. However, the level of spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference by modifying the amount of chilli powder used in the marinade.

Tandoori chicken has a unique and distinct flavour. Its taste is characterised by smoky, slightly charred notes from the clay oven cooking, combined with the tangy, mildly spicy, and aromatic flavours from the marinade. The yoghourt tenderises the chicken and gives it a tangy note, while the spices add depth and warmth. Despite its vibrant red appearance which may suggest heaviness, tandoori chicken is surprisingly light and nuanced with its layers of flavour.