Description
Chicken Tandoori is a classic dish packed with bold, vibrant flavors and tender, juicy chicken. The yogurt-based marinade infused with a mix of Indian spices gives the chicken deep flavor, while grilling or baking adds a delicious char. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it with naan, rice, or cucumber raita for a complete meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin removed)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp tandoori masala (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garam masala, cayenne pepper, garlic, ginger, and salt to make the marinade.
- Make slits in the chicken thighs to help the marinade penetrate. Add the chicken to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, or oven to 400°F (200°C). If using the oven, line a baking sheet with foil and place a rack on top.
- Grill or bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through with a slight char.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan, basmati rice, or cucumber raita.
Notes
- Marinating Time: For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to make the dish milder or spicier.
- Cooking Tip: If baking in the oven, use the broiler for the last 5 minutes to get a nice char on the chicken.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding marinating)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken Tandoori, easy chicken recipe, Indian chicken, grilled chicken