Description
A flavorful and tender tandoori chicken made with a rich marinade of yogurt, spices, and love, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken legs or thighs (bone-in)
- 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
- Optional: a dash of red food coloring
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, and salt. Coat chicken thoroughly and marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare for cooking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Use a tandoor or grill if available.
- Bake the chicken: Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with oil, and optionally sprinkle with food coloring. Bake for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Achieve perfect char: Broil the chicken for an additional 5-10 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Rest and serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, onions, and serve with raita or naan.
Notes
The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb. Aim for at least 2-3 hours but overnight is ideal for maximum tenderness.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: tandoori chicken, Indian recipe, homemade chicken, family recipe, marinated chicken