Homemade Tandoori Chicken: A Twist on the Classic

Tandoori chicken is a classic Indian dish featuring chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor oven. Here’s a recipe to make this flavorful dish at home: marinate chicken in a yogurt-based sauce with warming spices like coriander, cumin, and turmeric.

Bake or grill the chicken until cooked through. Enjoy with basmati rice, naan, and raita for a complete and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• For the Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 cup plain yogurt (or buttermilk)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon salt

• For the Chicken
  • 4 bone-in, skinless chicken leg quarters (or thighs, drumsticks)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

• In a small pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add coriander, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and paprika. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant (about 3 minutes). Let cool completely.

• In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled spice mixture, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and salt.

• Add chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, for the flavors to develop.

Cook the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
• Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can also broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end for a crispier exterior.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Tips

• For a richer flavor: You can substitute Greek yogurt (hung curd) for the plain yogurt in the marinade.
• No oven? No problem! You can grill the chicken on a preheated grill pan or even grill it outdoors for an authentic smoky flavor.
• Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier Tandoori chicken, add a chopped green chili pepper to the marinade.
• Serve with your favorites: Enjoy your Tandoori chicken with basmati rice, naan bread, and a cooling raita.

Enjoy your flavorful homemade Tandoori Chicken!