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Tandoori Chicken

Savory Tandoori Chicken: Easy Recipe for Smoky Flavor Lovers

Tandoori Chicken is a smoky, juicy Indian dish packed with flavorful spices and a healthy yogurt marinade.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Marinating Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Marinade Ingredients
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt A great tenderizer for the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Oil Olive or coconut oil can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Replace with lime juice if preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger (grated) Fresh ginger yields the best results.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon Garam Masala Curry powder can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika adds extra smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric No true substitute exists, adjust for color.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Ground coriander is an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Can be omitted or swapped with parsley.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Kosher or sea salt works best.
For Serving
  • 1 bunch Cilantro Optional but highly recommended.
  • 2 pieces Lemon Wedges For serving.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Baking tray
  • Wire rack
  • Oven

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, oil, and lemon juice, whisking until smooth.
  2. Add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and all spices: garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir until well blended.
  3. Make shallow slashes on each chicken piece to allow the marinade to penetrate deeply.
  4. Coat the chicken thoroughly with your prepared marinade and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for a minimum of 12 hours, preferably 24 hours.
  5. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with aluminum foil. Place a greased wire rack on top.
  6. Place marinated chicken on the prepared wire rack and bake for about 30 minutes. Flip the chicken and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  7. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the exterior is slightly charred.
  8. Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Well-marinated chicken yields the best flavor and tenderness. Use a thermometer to ensure proper cooking and avoid overcrowding on the rack.

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