Description

Tandoori Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic Indian dish made by marinating chicken in a blend of yogurt, spices, and herbs, then cooking it in a traditional tandoor (clay oven) for that signature smoky flavor. The marinade typically includes ingredients like garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and a hint of garlic and ginger, which infuse the chicken with bold and vibrant flavors.

The result is juicy, tender chicken with a charred exterior and a beautiful red hue, often served with naan bread or rice, and garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for added zest. Whether prepared on the grill or in the oven, tandoori chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Tandoori Chicken:

4–6 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks (you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts, but thighs or drumsticks provide more flavor)
1 cup plain yogurt (unsweetened)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1–2 teaspoons red chili powder (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee (clarified butter)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Ingredient Highlights

Yogurt: The yogurt in the marinade acts as a tenderizer and adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the spicy and aromatic seasoning.
Garam Masala: This is a traditional Indian spice mix that typically includes a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and coriander. It adds depth and warmth to the dish.
Turmeric: Known for its vibrant yellow color, turmeric is a staple in Indian cuisine and imparts a subtle earthy flavor.
Chili Powder: The heat from chili powder brings spice and depth to the marinade, and you can adjust the level of heat based on your preference.
Fresh Ginger and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients add sharpness and flavor, making the marinade more complex and fragrant.

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Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare perfect Tandoori Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cleaning and patting the chicken pieces dry. If using bone-in chicken, you may want to make a few shallow cuts into the flesh to allow the marinade to penetrate deeply.
Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, ginger, garlic, red chili powder, and vegetable oil. Add salt to taste. Mix everything together until you have a smooth, thick marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

2. Prepare the Grill or Oven:

Preheat the Grill: If you’re using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re cooking indoors, you can use your oven or broiler. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or set the broiler on high.
Prepare a Baking Sheet (if using the oven): Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

3. Grill or Bake the Chicken:

Grill the Chicken: If you’re grilling, place the marinated chicken directly on the grill. Cook the chicken for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the chicken has a slightly charred exterior. If you prefer the crispy charred edges, grill the chicken for an additional 5-10 minutes.
OR

Bake the Chicken: If you’re using an oven, place the marinated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. You can also broil the chicken during the last 5 minutes to get a crispy char.

4. Rest and Serve:

Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Tandoori Chicken with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve it alongside some naan, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4-6
Calories: 250-300 kcal
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g