Tandoori chicken

Tandoori chicken

This Tandoori chicken recipe infuses juicy chicken thighs with a vibrant and aromatic marinade, delivering a smoky, spicy delight. It's perfect for grilling and serves as a flavorful centerpiece for any meal.

Chicken

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

16 min

Servings

8

Tandoori chicken is a classic Indian dish known for its bold flavors and vivid red hue, traditionally cooked in a clay tandoor oven. This recipe replicates that signature taste by marinating succulent chicken thighs in a mixture of yogurt, fragrant spices, lemon juice, and freshly chopped onions before grilling. The marinade tenderizes the meat, infusing it with a harmonious blend of heat, tang, and earthiness. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, tandoori chicken has become a globally loved dish that pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, and refreshing yogurt-based sauces like raita. The smoky char from the grill adds a depth that complements spice-laden curries or fresh salads, making it a versatile option for both casual barbecues and festive gatherings. This recipe invites you to prepare the chicken ahead of time allowing the flavors to fully permeate the meat. The combination of aromatic garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and paprika alongside the creamy Greek yogurt creates a rich marinade that yields a juicy, subtly smoky grilled chicken that's simply irresistible.

Ingredients

  • 2 juice lemons
  • 4 tsp paprika
  • 2 finely chopped red onions
  • 16 skinnles chicken thighs
  • For brushing vegetable oil
  • 300 ml Greek yogurt
  • large piece ginger
  • 4 garlic clove
  • ¾ tsp garam masala
  • ¾ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp chilli powder
  • ¼ tsp turmeric

Instructions

Begin by combining the fresh lemon juice, vibrant paprika, and finely chopped red onions in a large, shallow dish. This mixture not only imparts a tangy zest but also helps begin tenderizing the chicken. Take each skinless chicken thigh and make three deliberate slashes; these cuts will allow the marinade to deeply penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Submerge the chicken pieces in the lemon-onion mixture and let them rest for 10 minutes to start the tenderizing process. Next, prepare the marinade by blending Greek yogurt with freshly grated ginger, minced garlic cloves, aromatic garam masala, warm ground cumin, a touch of chilli powder, and vibrant turmeric. Pour this luscious mixture over the chicken, making sure every thigh is thoroughly coated. Gently toss everything together to ensure even coverage, then cover the dish tightly and place it in the fridge for at least one hour. For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance—just remember to bring it back to room temperature before grilling. When ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat. Carefully transfer the chicken thighs onto a wire rack set over a baking tray to catch any drips. Lightly brush the chicken with vegetable oil to promote a beautiful char and prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for about 8 minutes on each side, watching for a lovely lightly charred exterior and ensuring the meat is cooked completely through. Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute—this step guarantees juicy, tender bites every time. Tip: Keep an eye on the grill to avoid burning the turmeric-rich marinade; adjust the heat as necessary and turn chicken carefully using tongs. Serve alongside cooling cucumber raita or vibrant coriander chutney for an authentic experience.

Quick Info

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
16 min
Total Time
36 min
Servings
8

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