Tandoori Chicken is a traditional Indian dish known for its smoky, spicy, and tangy flavor. Chicken is marinated in a mix of yogurt, lemon juice, and aromatic spices, then cooked at a high temperature to achieve its signature charred edges and juicy texture. Whether grilled, baked, or cooked in an air fryer, it brings restaurant-quality taste right to your home.
Ingredients
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2 lbs chicken legs or thighs, skin removed
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1 cup plain yogurt
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp ginger paste
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2 tsp garam masala
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2 tsp ground cumin
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2 tsp paprika
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1 tsp ground turmeric
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1½ tsp salt
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1½ tsp chili powder (adjust to spice preference)
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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Fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Marinating time: 6–8 hours (or overnight)
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Cook time: 30 minutes
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Total time: about 8 hours 45 minutes
Serving
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Serves 4
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, chili powder, and oil until smooth. -
Marinate the Chicken:
Make small slits in the chicken pieces for better flavor absorption.
Add the chicken to the bowl and coat each piece thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor. -
Cook the Chicken:
For Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the chicken pieces on the rack and bake for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until slightly charred and cooked through.
For Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 12–15 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning once. -
Serve:
Garnish with chopped cilantro and lemon wedges. Serve hot with naan, basmati rice, or a side of cooling cucumber raita.
Tips
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Use full-fat yogurt for a creamier marinade and better adherence to the chicken.
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For authentic smoky flavor, add a small piece of hot charcoal in a bowl inside the marinated chicken dish, drizzle oil over it, cover, and let it smoke for 5 minutes before cooking.
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Adjust chili powder based on how spicy you like it.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 310
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Protein: 35g
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Fat: 15g
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Fiber: 1g
Juicy, smoky, and bursting with bold spices, Tandoori Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy Indian-style grilled chicken that’s rich in flavor yet simple to make at home.
