Craving the vibrant flavors of India? Then look no further! This authentic Tandoori Chicken recipe brings the restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. Forget takeout; this easy recipe is surprisingly simple to make and delivers unbelievably tender, juicy chicken bursting with aromatic spices. It’s the perfect healthy meal, quick dinner idea, and a delicious dish to impress your family and friends. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 2 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp tandoori masala (you can find this at most Indian grocery stores or online)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
Marinating the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, paprika, tandoori masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin powder, and salt.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will become.
Cooking the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a grill, you can cook it on that as well (medium-high heat).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. If grilling, cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions:
Garnish your delicious tandoori chicken with fresh cilantro and serve it with rice, naan bread, or a refreshing salad. It's also fantastic served with raita (yogurt dip) to cool down the spice.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat.
- Bone-in chicken: You can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, but increase the cooking time accordingly.
- Grill it: Grilling the chicken adds a lovely smoky flavor.
- Make it ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before for maximum flavor.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This authentic Tandoori Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a simple yet impressive dish that showcases the best of Indian cuisine. Enjoy!