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easy tandoori chicken recipe.

 



Authentic Tandoori Chicken Recipe: Juicy, Smoky & Full of Flavor

Tandoori Chicken Recipe | Authentic Indian Grilled Chicken
Make restaurant-style tandoori chicken at home with this easy recipe! Marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled to perfection. Juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor.

Introduction

Craving the rich, smoky flavor of authentic Indian tandoori chicken? You don’t need a clay oven (tandoor) to make this mouthwatering dish at home. This easy tandoori chicken recipe brings together bold spices, creamy yogurt, and high-heat cooking to deliver the classic flavor you love—perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying.

Why You’ll Love This Tandoori Chicken Recipe

  • Bold, authentic Indian flavors
  • Juicy and tender thanks to yogurt-based marinade
  • Grill, oven, or air fryer – flexible cooking options
  • Great for meal prep, BBQs, or weeknight dinners
  • Naturally gluten-free and low-carb

What is Tandoori Chicken?

Tandoori chicken is a traditional Indian dish made by marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then cooking it at high heat—traditionally in a clay oven. The result? Smoky, spicy, and irresistibly flavorful chicken with a beautiful charred finish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Chicken: 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks (or boneless breasts/thighs if preferred)
  • Yogurt: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Ginger: 1 tbsp freshly grated
  • Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
  • Oil: 2 tbsp (for marinade + brushing)

Spices for Marinade:

  • 1 ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Score the Chicken

Make deep slashes in the chicken pieces to allow the marinade to penetrate fully.

2. Make the Marinade

In a bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, oil, and all the spices until well combined.

3. Marinate

Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.

4. Cook the Chicken

Choose one of the following methods:

  • Grill: Preheat to medium-high. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side or until charred and cooked through.
  • Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes to char.
  • Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with naan, basmati rice, or roti
  • Add a side of mint chutney or raita
  • Pair with grilled veggies or a fresh cucumber salad

Tips for Perfect Tandoori Chicken

  • Use Greek yogurt for a thicker marinade and juicier chicken
  • Marinate for at least 6–8 hours for full flavor
  • Add a drop of red food coloring if you want that classic restaurant-style red hue (optional)

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freeze: Freeze marinated raw chicken or cooked chicken for up to 2 months
  • Reheat: Reheat in oven or skillet to maintain texture

FAQs

Q: Can I make tandoori chicken without a grill?
A: Absolutely! The oven or air fryer works great. Broil at the end for a smoky, charred finish.

Q: Is tandoori chicken spicy?
A: It’s mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat by reducing or omitting cayenne pepper.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes! Boneless thighs or breasts cook faster but may be slightly less juicy than bone-in pieces.

Conclusion

This easy homemade tandoori chicken recipe brings bold Indian flavors to your table without the need for a tandoor. Juicy, spicy, and packed with aroma, it's perfect for both casual meals and festive occasions. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!


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