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Flavorful Tandoori Chicken Recipe Easy Juicy Tender 30-Minute Dinner

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This flavorful tandoori chicken recipe is quick, easy, and delivers juicy, tender chicken with authentic smoky spices and a tangy yogurt marinade. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) plain yogurt, full-fat or Greek
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Optional: pinch of red food coloring

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and vegetable oil in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or prepare grill to medium-high heat. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if baking.
  4. Arrange the marinated chicken on the wire rack or foil-lined tray, letting excess marinade drip off.
  5. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and edges are slightly charred. If grilling, cook 6-7 minutes per side, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  6. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  7. Serve hot with lemon wedges and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Marinate for at least 30 minutes for best results; longer marinating (2-4 hours or overnight) yields juicier, more flavorful chicken. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Optional broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra smoky flavor. Can substitute coconut or cashew yogurt for dairy-free version. Adjust cayenne pepper for desired heat level.

Nutrition

Keywords: tandoori chicken, easy tandoori recipe, Indian chicken recipe, yogurt marinated chicken, spicy chicken, oven baked chicken, grilled chicken

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