Tandoori Chicken
This Tandoori Chicken recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Indian dish right from your kitchen. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this dish features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful yogurt and spice mixture. The result is tender chicken with beautifully charred edges that is both keto-friendly and low carb.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
- Rich Flavor: The yogurt marinade infuses the chicken with spices, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course, serve it with rice, or add it to salads for a healthy meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this recipe aligns perfectly with keto diets.
- Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners or lunch prep.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Tandoori Chicken requires just a few essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Foil or parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Essential for broiling or baking the chicken evenly while allowing excess moisture to escape.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing the marinade thoroughly with the chicken.
- Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken without making a mess and ensuring even coating with the marinade.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
- 1 lime, juiced (1-2 tablespoons)
- 3/4 teaspoon table salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 (7-ounce) container plain greek yogurt
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
How to Make Tandoori Chicken
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Rub salt, pepper, and lime juice over all surfaces of chicken thighs; set aside. Stir together all marinade ingredients in a large bowl until well-mixed. Add chicken thighs to the bowl one at a time, using tongs to stir them around until smeared with marinade before adding another. Cover and refrigerate for 6 to 24 hours.
Step 2: Prepare
Position oven rack in center of oven. Turn on broiler, set to high. If broiler is not available, plan to bake instead by preheating oven to 450°F. Prepare baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper, optionally fitted with greased wire rack. Use tongs to transfer marinade-covered chicken thighs to baking sheet, spreading out each thigh to lay it flat without touching others. Discard excess marinade in bowl.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
Place baking sheet in oven, cooking until chicken appears mostly dry on top with a few blackened tips, about 15 to 20 minutes. Take out baking sheet, flip chicken thighs, and return to oven. Cook until chicken appears dry and is cooked through, about 10 minutes while monitoring frequently to avoid burning. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Tandoori Chicken!
How to Serve Tandoori Chicken
Serving Tandoori Chicken can elevate your dining experience, making it a flavorful centerpiece for any meal. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, there are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish.
With Rice
- Basmati Rice – Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice pairs perfectly with the spiced chicken.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – A fresh twist that adds brightness and complements the flavors well.
With Naan
- Garlic Naan – Soft and chewy, garlic naan is perfect for scooping up the chicken.
- Butter Naan – Rich and buttery, this naan enhances the meal’s indulgent feel.
With Salads
- Cucumber Raita – A cooling yogurt-based salad that balances the spices in Tandoori Chicken.
- Kachumber Salad – This fresh vegetable salad adds crunch and freshness to your plate.
With Dips
- Mint Chutney – A refreshing dip that provides a vibrant contrast to the smoky chicken flavors.
- Mango Chutney – Sweet and tangy, mango chutney adds an exciting flavor pairing.
How to Perfect Tandoori Chicken
Perfecting your Tandoori Chicken involves mastering a few key techniques. These tips will help ensure your dish is full of flavor and cooked to perfection.
- Marinate Long Enough – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 6 hours for the best flavor penetration.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating without overcooking.
- Don’t Skip the Broiler – Broiling gives the chicken its signature char and crispiness that makes it irresistible.
- Let It Rest – Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify spices based on your heat preference; less cayenne for mildness or more for extra kick.
Best Side Dishes for Tandoori Chicken
To complement your Tandoori Chicken, consider these delectable side dishes. They enhance the meal while providing variety on your table.
- Pulao Rice – Aromatic rice pilaf cooked with spices; pairs beautifully with Tandoori Chicken.
- Saag Paneer – Creamy spinach dish featuring paneer cheese; offers a rich vegetarian option alongside meat.
- Masoor Dal – Spicy red lentils that add protein and earthiness; perfect for scooping with naan.
- Aloo Gobi – Flavorful potato and cauliflower curry; adds warmth and texture to your meal.
- Chickpea Salad – Protein-rich salad with chickpeas, tomatoes, and onions; lightens up heavier dishes.
- Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickles provide a zesty contrast that brightens up the overall flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Tandoori Chicken at home can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough marinating time can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Yogurt: The yogurt is crucial for the marinade. Always opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess and richness in taste.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your broiler or oven has reached the desired temperature before placing the chicken inside.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many chicken thighs in one layer can cause steaming rather than crisping. Space them out to allow proper air circulation.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Relying solely on time without checking for doneness can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Tandoori Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Tandoori Chicken
- Wrap Tandoori Chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tandoori Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. Cover and steam until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Tandoori Chicken.
How do I make Tandoori Chicken more spicy?
You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add fresh chopped green chilies to your marinade for an extra kick.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts, but be aware that they may dry out faster. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is Tandoori Chicken keto-friendly?
Absolutely! This recipe is low-carb and fits perfectly into a keto diet plan.
What should I serve with Tandoori Chicken?
Pair it with basmati rice, naan, or a fresh salad to balance the meal beautifully.
Can I make Tandoori Chicken without yogurt?
While yogurt adds creaminess and tanginess, you can substitute it with coconut milk or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for similar effects.
Final Thoughts
Tandoori Chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust spices and serving options based on your preferences. Whether enjoyed in wraps, salads, or simply as is, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different marinades or side dishes!
Tandoori Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Tandoori Chicken is a mouthwatering Indian classic that brings the flavors of a traditional tandoor right to your kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich blend of yogurt and spices, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, Tandoori Chicken offers a delightful balance of smoky char and aromatic spices. Plus, it’s keto-friendly and low in carbs, making it an ideal dinner option for health-conscious eaters. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice, fresh naan, or a crisp salad to elevate your meal experience.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 3/4 teaspoon table salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 7 ounces plain Greek yogurt
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, rub salt, pepper, and lime juice over chicken thighs. Mix remaining marinade ingredients thoroughly and coat each thigh with the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or up to overnight.
- Prepare for Cooking: Preheat your oven's broiler on high. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and arrange marinated chicken thighs without overlapping.
- Cook the Chicken: Broil chicken for about 15-20 minutes until mostly dry with some charred edges. Flip and continue broiling for another 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (approximately 113g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
