Spicy Tandoori Chicken & Cucumber Raita Pasta Salad 🌶️🥒🍝✨
Ingredients:
• For the Tandoori Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp tandoori spice mix (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• Salt, to taste
• For the Pasta Salad:
• 8 oz whole wheat fusilli pasta
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup radishes, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crispy chickpeas (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Cucumber Raita Dressing:
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, finely diced
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tandoori Chicken:
• In a bowl, combine the tandoori spice mix, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to form a marinade.
• Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Once cooked, remove from the grill and let rest before slicing into strips.
2. Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
• Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
3. Make the Cucumber Raita Dressing:
• In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped cilantro (if using), lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and creamy.
4. Assemble the Pasta Salad:
• In a large bowl, combine the cooled fusilli pasta, shredded carrots, radishes, and crispy chickpeas. Toss to combine.
• Add the sliced tandoori chicken on top of the pasta salad and drizzle with the cucumber raita dressing.
• Toss gently to coat everything in the dressing.
5. Serve:
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately. This dish can also be served chilled for a refreshing twist.
Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 450-550 per serving (depending on portion sizes and toppings)
This Spicy Tandoori Chicken & Cucumber Raita Pasta Salad brings the heat of tandoori chicken together with the coolness of cucumber raita for a flavorful, satisfying dish. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a unique addition to your next gathering! 🌶️🥒🍝✨
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