Dinner

Tandoori Chicken Recipe

Name: Tandoori Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490314H41M5S
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 4 chicken leg quarters (or 8 chicken thighs/drumsticks); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 2 teaspoons ground coriander; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon paprika (for color); 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); Salt (to taste); Fresh cilantro (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Byluca Carter November 28, 2025November 28, 2025

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Introduction

Tandoori Chicken is a classic Indian dish known for its vibrant color and smoky flavor. Marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, this chicken can be cooked in an oven or on a grill. It’s perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

A white plate holds a bed of yellow and white rice as the base layer, topped with five pieces of grilled chicken that are bright reddish-orange with visible black char marks and a slightly rough texture, garnished with small green herb bits. Around the chicken pieces, there are two lemon wedges placed on the rice, adding a fresh yellow contrast. The plate is on a white marbled surface with two small bowls nearby, one with creamy white sauce topped with green herbs, and the other bowl also containing a similar sauce with thin green strips. A yellow cloth is partially visible on the left side, and a silver fork is placed on the right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 chicken leg quarters (or 8 chicken thighs/drumsticks)
1 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon paprika (for color)
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt (to taste)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
Step 2: Make a few shallow cuts in the chicken pieces to help the marinade penetrate. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil, placing a wire rack on top. Alternatively, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess. Place on the wire rack (if using oven) or directly on grill grates.
Step 5: For oven cooking, bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through and skin is crispy. You can broil for the last few minutes to add extra char. For grilling, cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Step 6: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the cayenne pepper to make the dish milder or spicier according to your taste.
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with paneer or tofu and follow the same marinade and cooking method.
Serve with naan, basmati rice, raita, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftover tandoori chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain moisture and flavor.