Description
Make this mouthwatering Tandoori Chicken at home! Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, this Indian classic is marinated in yogurt and bold spices, then grilled or baked to perfection. Perfect for BBQs, meal prep, or a delicious family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs chicken (bone-in, drumsticks or thighs)
- 1 cup yogurt (full-fat, plain)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch ginger (grated)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp mustard oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- 1 red onion (sliced, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Score the Chicken: Make deep slashes in the chicken pieces to help absorb the marinade.
- Marinate: Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- Grill: Preheat to medium-high heat.
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and place a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grill: Cook over direct heat for 5-7 minutes per side, then move to indirect heat and cook for another 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Oven: Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway. For a charred effect, broil for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Check Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, red onions, and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Boneless Option: Use chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker cook time.
- Spicier Version: Add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Dairy-Free: Replace yogurt with coconut cream or plant-based yogurt.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- marinate time: 4-24 hours
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Baking
- Cuisine: indian
Keywords: Tandoori chicken, Indian grilled chicken, yogurt marinade, spicy chicken, BBQ chicken