Grilled Yogurt-Marinated Chicken

It's time for a yummy, far-east inspired meal. It comes together quickly if you're impatient like I am, or you can do it properly and let it marinate overnight, in which case I imagine it would be divine. I only let it marinate for 15 minutes. That's how disciplined I am.

The marinade includes garam masala, a beautiful combination of spices that is traditional in Indian cooking. The marinade also includes yogurt, which is traditional in Indian cooking. It's almost like an Indian meal, but I won't go that far because I'm sure the traditionalists would scoff. It's not spicy or particularly exotic, but it has a hint of Indian flavor that will please those of us who can't get enough of the stuff, without offending those who think they are anti-Indian-food.

Grilled Yogurt-Marinated Chicken
adapted from Everyday Food Magazine
serves 2

INGREDIENTS:

1 small onion, roughly chopped
1 large garlic clove, smashed and peeled
juice of 1 lemon, divided
1 1/2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
1/2 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek, but regular is fine)
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
coarse salt and ground pepper
1 large chicken breast, butterflied and halved
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 cucumber, peeled, halved lengthwise, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro
whole wheat pita bread or naan for serving

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a food processor or blender, puree the onion, garlic, 1/2 the lemon juice, and ginger until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and stir in yogurt, garam masala, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for as long as you can wait (up to overnight) - longer is better, but mine was still tasty with only 15 minutes of marinating.

2. Preheat grill pan over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, make the salad by combining cucumber, cilantro, oil, and remaining lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Spray grill pan with nonstick spray. Remove chicken from marinade, and wipe off excess. Grill until done, about 5 minutes per side. Serve with salad and pita or naan.

This is great made into pita sandwiches. Enjoy!