If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the smoky allure of tandoori chicken and the irresistible comfort of cheesy garlic bread, this is the hybrid you never knew you needed. Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread fuses the bold flavors of Indian spices with buttery, aromatic garlic bread, melting two worlds into one crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Whether you’re planning a laid-back get-together or just want to jazz up a weeknight dinner, every bite brings a punch of flavor, gooey cheese, and that signature kick from tandoori chicken. Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread starts with simple ingredients chosen for their irresistible flavors and textures. Each element has a special role, from creamy cheeses to savory chicken, making every bite a delightful surprise.
- Cooked tandoori chicken (2 cups, shredded or chopped): Use store-bought or homemade for that signature smoky, spicy flavor.
- French baguette or Italian loaf (1 large, halved lengthwise): The perfect base — crispy on the edges, fluffy inside.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Helps the garlic and herbs seep into every nook of the bread.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Real garlic elevates that classic aromatic punch.
- Fresh cilantro (1 tbsp, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to balance the rich toppings.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully for the ultimate stretch and gooeyness.
- Cheddar cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Adds sharp, tangy flavor to complement the milder mozzarella.
- Red onion (1/4, thinly sliced): Lends a pop of color and gentle bite that cuts through the richness.
- Mayonnaise or sour cream (1 tbsp, optional): For extra creaminess in the chicken mixture.
- Garam masala (1/2 tsp, optional): Deepens the tandoori aroma for authentic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning all those layers.
- Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish (optional): Ties everything together with brightness and freshness.
How to Make Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Fire up your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready by the time you assemble your masterpiece. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper — not only does this help prevent sticking, but it makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, blend together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. This spread takes your bread from ordinary to extraordinary, infusing each bite with garlicky goodness and a pop of fresh herbs.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded tandoori chicken with a spoonful of mayonnaise or sour cream if you’re after creaminess. Toss in the garam masala if you love those deep Indian spice notes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This ensures every bite of Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread is bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Assemble Your Garlic Bread
Slather the garlic butter generously on the cut sides of your baguette or loaf, getting it into every cranny. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the buttered bread, then sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top. Add those lovely thin slices of red onion for the final touch before baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your loaded breads onto the baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, watching for bubbling cheese and golden edges. The smell is irresistible, but try to resist peeking too often!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is gooey and the bread looks golden, pull it out. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if you like, then slice and serve your Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread piping hot.
How to Serve Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread
Garnishes
A generous scatter of chopped cilantro over your Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread adds freshness and color, while a squirt of lime brightens each bite. For extra flair, you can sprinkle on some sliced green chilis or pickled onions for vibrant flavor and crunch.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal with crunchy cucumber salad, a cooling raita, or a bowl of tomato soup. Each makes a fabulous companion, balancing the flavors of the bread and keeping things light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, slice the Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread into appetizer-sized pieces and spear them with fancy toothpicks for a fun, shareable platter. Or, top each slice with a tiny dollop of chutney for an extra punch. Individual baguette rounds also make adorable, mini versions that are perfect for potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread left, wrap it snugly in foil or an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay delicious for up to three days without losing too much moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread for up to a month. Simply cool them completely, wrap each slice well, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To bring your Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread back to its original glory, heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid the microwave, which can make the bread chewy instead of crisp.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of tandoori chicken?
Absolutely! If time is tight, shred some rotisserie chicken and toss it with a bit of tandoori spice mix or paste before using it in your Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread. It’s a quick shortcut with all the flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the tandoori chicken for roasted tandoori vegetables or marinated paneer for an equally mouthwatering, veggie-friendly garlic bread.
How spicy is Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread?
The spice level really depends on your chicken and whether you add jalapeños or extra garam masala. You can always control the heat by choosing mild tandoori chicken or omitting additional spicy toppings.
Which cheese is best if I want to try something different?
Feel free to experiment! Gouda, provolone, or pepper jack can all bring unique flavors to your Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread. Just aim for a cheese that melts well for that signature stretch.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely. Substitute a gluten-free baguette or loaf and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that’s guaranteed to steal the show, look no further than Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread. It’s fun to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit with family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes the new favorite at your table!
Print
Tandoori Chicken Garlic Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious fusion recipe combining the flavors of tandoori chicken with the comfort of garlic bread. Perfect for a party appetizer or a flavorful lunch, this cheesy, garlicky dish is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Tandoori Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked tandoori chicken (shredded or chopped)
Garlic Bread:
- 1 large French baguette or Italian loaf (halved lengthwise)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 tsp garam masala (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare garlic butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Prepare chicken mixture: In another bowl, combine the shredded tandoori chicken with mayonnaise or sour cream (if using), garam masala, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble: Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the garlic-buttered bread. Top with mozzarella, cheddar, and thinly sliced red onions.
- Bake: Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden around the edges.
- Serve: Slice and garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can use store-bought tandoori chicken or leftover homemade.
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- This recipe works great as a party appetizer, game day snack, or fusion lunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian-Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
