- Prepare the Tandoori Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt, tandoori masala spice mix, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, vegetable oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, paprika (if using), and salt to taste. Mix well until smooth and combined.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the whole chicken in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the tandoori marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is thoroughly coated, including inside the cavity.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies.
- Cover the bowl or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Tandoori Chicken:
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Place the marinated whole chicken breast side down in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
- Flip and Continue Cooking:
- After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken over using tongs or silicone-coated tongs.
- Continue to air fry at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the tandoori chicken from the air fryer basket and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Conclusion: Air frying a whole tandoori chicken yields tender, flavorful meat with a crispy skin, reminiscent of traditional clay oven cooking. This recipe allows you to enjoy the bold flavors of tandoori cuisine in a convenient and healthier way using an air fryer.
Pro Tips:
- For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
- Serve the tandoori chicken with naan bread, basmati rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size and model of your air fryer, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juices run clear.
Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Whole Tandoori Chicken, and savor the aromatic spices and crispy texture with every bite!