🍽️ The BEST Tandoori Chicken Recipe – Juicy, Smoky & Full of Flavor!

Share
  • August 22, 2025

🔥 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Full of rich, aromatic Indian spices

  • Perfectly juicy inside with a charred, smoky exterior

  • Uses simple ingredients

  • Great for family dinners, parties, or festive occasions

  • No tandoor needed – just your oven or stovetop!

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need:

Ingredient Quantity
Chicken leg quarters 2 large pieces
Thick yogurt ¾ cup
Ginger-garlic paste 1.5 tablespoons
Kashmiri red chili powder 1.5 teaspoons
Coriander powder 1 teaspoon
Cumin powder ½ teaspoon
Turmeric powder ½ teaspoon
Garam masala 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt As per taste
Mustard oil (preferred) 1 tablespoon
Optional: red food color A pinch
Fresh coriander & lemon For garnish

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken

  • Wash and pat dry the chicken leg quarters.

  • Use a knife to make deep slits (3–4 per piece). This helps the marinade seep inside and cook evenly.

2️⃣ Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix the following:
Yogurt + Ginger-garlic paste + Spices + Lemon juice + Mustard oil + Optional color
Mix well to form a thick, flavorful paste.

3️⃣ Marinate the Chicken

  • Rub the marinade generously over the chicken, making sure it goes into the cuts.

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours – preferably overnight.

4️⃣ Cook the Chicken

Oven Method:

  • Preheat to 200°C (400°F)

  • Bake for 35–40 mins, turning halfway

  • Broil for last 3–5 mins to get a charred finish

Grill/Pan Method:

  • Use grill pan, medium flame

  • Turn occasionally, cook for 25 mins or until fully cooked

  • Brush with butter for extra flavor


🌿 Garnishing & Serving Tips

  • Sprinkle chopped coriander

  • Serve with lemon wedges, onions, or mint chutney

  • Pair with naan or rice for a full meal


💡 Chef Tips:

  • Use mustard oil for authentic tandoori flavor

  • Cut deep slits to help marinade penetrate

  • Broil/torch the chicken for smoky edges

  • Marinate overnight for best taste