🍗 What is Tandoori Chicken?
Tandoori chicken is one of the most iconic Indian dishes—juicy chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, traditionally cooked in a clay oven (tandoor). But don’t worry! You don’t need a tandoor to enjoy this dish. This quick & easy version can be made right at home in your oven, pan, or air fryer, and it’s just as delicious!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken drumsticks | 6 pieces |
| Thick yogurt | ½ cup |
| Ginger-garlic paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Garam masala | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Mustard oil (or any oil) | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh coriander | For garnish |
| Lemon slices & onions | For serving |
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken
-
Wash and pat dry the chicken drumsticks.
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Use a sharp knife to make 2–3 cuts on each piece. This helps the marinade to get inside and adds flavor.
2️⃣ Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine:
🌀 Yogurt + Ginger-Garlic paste + Lemon juice + Chili powder + Turmeric + Garam masala + Salt + Mustard oil.
Mix well until it forms a smooth paste.
3️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
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Rub the marinade all over the drumsticks, making sure it goes into the cuts.
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Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes minimum.
⏳ For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
4️⃣ Cook the Chicken
You have multiple options here:
✅ Oven Method:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Bake the chicken on a wire rack or tray for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through.
✅ Pan Frying:
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan.
Cook the chicken on medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through (about 20–25 minutes).
✅ Air Fryer:
Preheat to 180°C.
Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
5️⃣ Final Touch
Once cooked, sprinkle freshly chopped coriander.
Serve hot with lemon wedges, onion rings, and green chutney for that authentic desi experience! 🌿🍋🧅
💡 Tips & Tricks:
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Kashmiri red chili powder gives beautiful color without too much heat.
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Don’t skip the mustard oil – it adds a real tandoori flavor.
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You can use the same marinade for boneless chicken too!
