Tandoori-style chicken is a classic dish that originates from India, known for its smoky, charred exterior and tender, juicy interior. This recipe uses a blend of aromatic spices, yogurt, and a slow-cooked method that mimics the traditional tandoor oven, giving you the perfect flavor and texture. While you may not have a tandoor oven at home, this recipe works perfectly on a grill, in a conventional oven, or even in a broiler.
Let’s dive into making this flavorful and aromatic Tandoori-Style Chicken at home!
Why You’ll Love Tandoori-Style Chicken:
- Aromatic and Flavorful:Â The marinade is packed with spices that give the chicken a bold, fragrant flavor.
- Tender and Juicy:Â The yogurt and spices in the marinade tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and moist.
- Versatile:Â This dish is perfect for parties, family dinners, or a weekend BBQ. You can serve it with naan, rice, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
- Easy to Make:Â With the right ingredients and a little patience for marinating, this dish is simple to prepare and cook.
Ingredients for Authentic Tandoori-Style Chicken:
For the Marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken drumsticks)
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt (full-fat works best)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (optional, for the signature tandoori color)
For Cooking:
- 1-2 tablespoons oil or ghee (for grilling or baking)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Sliced onions