Tandoori Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Tandoori Chicken is a flavorful Indian dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a spicy yogurt blend. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and aromatic spices that make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare at home with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 3/4 teaspoon table salt
• 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 (7-ounce) container plain Greek yogurt
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rub the chicken thighs evenly with salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cayenne until well combined.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken to the yogurt mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 6 to 24 hours to marinate.
4. Step 4: Preheat your broiler or oven to high heat (450°F). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
5. Step 5: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet without overlapping.
6. Step 6: Broil the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes until the tops are dry with some charred spots.
7. Step 7: Flip each piece and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Step 8: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of broiling.
• Use bone-in thighs for juicier results, but increase cooking time accordingly.
• If you prefer a milder heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
• Serve with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.

Storage

Store leftover tandoori chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful after cooking. If using breasts, watch the cooking time closely to prevent drying out.

Do I need a tandoor oven to make authentic tandoori chicken?

No, traditional tandoori chicken is cooked in a tandoor, but broiling or grilling at a high temperature at home replicates the smoky charred effect quite well.