Tandoori Chicken over Rice

Tandoori Chicken Over Rice is a vibrant, flavourful twist on the classic halal cart style chicken and rice. Inspired by the bold, aromatic flavours of South asian & Middle Eastern spices. This dish combines flavourful chicken thighs, fragrant rice, and a creamy white sauce for a meal that’s truly satisfying. Chicken over rice is a blank canvas type meal with endless flavour possibilities- this tandoori one just might be my new favourite.

Here's how its made

The chicken thighs are the star of the dish, marinated in a mixture of garlic, tandoori masala, coriander, and more earthy spices. This combination of spices creates robust flavour with a slight heat and a hint of citrus from the lemon juice. The yogurt in the marinade helps tenderize the chicken, while olive oil gives it a nice sear when cooked. After marinating, grill or sear the chicken until golden brown and crispy on the edges, locking in those flavours. The result is a deliciously flavourful and tender chicken that pairs perfectly with the fluffy, aromatic rice.

The rice is infused with ghee, Middle Eastern seven-spice, and cardamom pods, giving it a warm, fragrant base that complements the bold flavors of the chicken. The ghee adds a subtle richness, while the spices and bouillon bring savory depth to the rice. The rice is soft and fluffy, which creates a satisfying bed for the tandoori chicken to lay on.

Every good chicken & rice dish needs that addicting white sauce. I make it by combining plain yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon, and a touch of sugar. The sauce adds a cooling contrast to the heat of the tandoori seasoning and ties the dish together with a creamy, tangy finish.

This Tandoori Chicken Over Rice is perfect for those who love the classic meal but want something new. Whether you're enjoying it for a casual dinner or serving it to impress guests, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. The combination of the juicy spiced chicken, aromatic rice, and creamy sauce creates a perfect balance—making every bite a satisfying experience.

Tandoori Spice

I like to use a very specific brand tandoori spice by a brand called Kissan. It's recommended by my desi mother-in-law so you know it's the good stuff. You may be able to find it at your local middle eastern/south asian market or simply order it on amazon by clicking here. This specific brand makes their tandoori spice with a subtle sweetness which nicely balances out the intense spices.