Tandoori Chicken Smoky Indian Style (Printable)

Tender chicken marinated in spiced yogurt, roasted to smoky perfection with aromatic Indian spices.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken

01 - 2.6 lbs chicken pieces, bone-in, skinless

→ Marinade

02 - 3/4 cup plain yogurt
03 - 3 tbsp lemon juice
04 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil
05 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 thumb-sized piece ginger, grated
07 - 2 tsp ground cumin
08 - 2 tsp ground coriander
09 - 2 tsp paprika
10 - 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
11 - 1 tsp turmeric
12 - 1 tsp chili powder
13 - 1 1/2 tsp salt

→ Garnish & Serving

14 - Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
15 - Lemon wedges
16 - Sliced red onion

# Steps:

01 - Using a sharp knife, cut deep slashes into the chicken pieces to allow marinade penetration.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt until smooth.
03 - Add chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for optimal flavor.
04 - Preheat oven to 430°F or prepare grill for medium-high heat. Line a baking tray with foil and place a wire rack on top.
05 - Arrange marinated chicken on the rack. Roast or grill for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and slightly charred with crispy edges.
06 - Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped cilantro, lemon wedges, and sliced red onion. Serve hot with naan, rice, or salad.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The marinade does double duty tenderizing the chicken while infusing every fiber with deep aromatic flavor
  • That slightly charred edge from high heat creates restaurant worthy results without any fancy equipment
02 -
  • Pat the chicken somewhat dry before marinating so the yogurt actually sticks instead of sliding right off
  • Let the chicken come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before hitting the oven for more even cooking
03 -
  • Line that baking sheet with foil or you will regret the cleanup later
  • Use chicken thighs only if you want the most forgiving juicy results

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