Tandoori-Inspired Smoked Chicken Jerky
Ingredients
Chicken
Marinade
Optional Finishing Dust
Instructions
1. Slice the Chicken
-
Partially freeze the chicken breasts for 45–60 minutes.
-
Slice into strips ¼ inch thick with the grain for chewier jerky or against the grain for a more tender bite
-
Try to keep thickness consistent.
2. Make the Marinade
-
Combine Yogurt, Lemon juice, Garam masala, Kashmiri chili/Paprika, Cumin, Coriander, Garlic powder, Ginger, Salt, Pepper, Turmeric, and Honey
-
Whisk until smooth.
3. Marinate
-
Add chicken strips and mix thoroughly.
-
Transfer to Large zip-top bags, Vacuum bags
-
Covered food-safe container
-
Refrigerate 3–4 days.
-
Turn or massage daily if practical.
1. Smoke Day - Prepare the Chicken
-
Remove chicken from marinade.
-
Wipe off excess marinade.
-
You want a thin coating remaining, not clumps.
-
Pat lightly with paper towels.
-
Arrange on Jerky racks, Wire cooling racks, or Smoker grates.
-
Leave space between strips.
2. Smoke
-
Wood: Apple (recommended), Cherry, or Pecan
-
Smoker temperature: Start at 150°F, and increase to 160°F if needed
-
Smoke until Chicken reaches safe temperature and Jerky develops the desired texture
-
Expect: 6–8 hours depending on thickness and humidity
3. Check for Doneness
-
The jerky should Bend before breaking, show some fibers when pulled apart, Feel dry on the surface and not feel wet or spongy inside
Optional Finish:
-
While still warm lightly dust with the finishing spice mix. This gives a little extra tandoori aroma right at the surface.
