Serving Details
- Servings: 4
- Portion Size: 1–2 pieces per person
- Course: Main
- Cuisine: Indian
Recipe Description
Tandoori Chicken from The Cook Book is a fiery, flavor-packed dish that’s been marinated in a rich yogurt-based blend of aromatic spices, then grilled or roasted to smoky perfection. A true staple of Indian cuisine, this dish offers succulent meat with crisp charred edges — perfect with naan, rice, or fresh salad.
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight)
- Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: Approx. 5 hours (including marination)
Nutritional Ingredients (per serving)
- Calories: Approx. 310 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- 500g chicken pieces (bone-in thighs, drumsticks or breast halves)
- 150g plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Optional: red food coloring for traditional hue
For serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Sliced onions
- Fresh coriander
- Mint yogurt or raita (optional)
Instructions
- Score and marinate: Make deep cuts in the chicken. In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients. Coat chicken well and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat grill or oven: Heat grill to medium-high or oven to 220°C (fan 200°C).
- Cook: Place chicken on a rack over a baking tray (or grill directly). Roast or grill for 25–30 minutes, turning once halfway, until chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Rest and serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges, sliced onions, and mint yogurt.
FAQs
Can I cook this in a pan?
Yes. Use a heavy skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook covered until done, finishing uncovered for char.
Is a tandoor oven required?
No. A home oven or grill replicates the effect well. Broiling at the end adds a charred finish.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to avoid drying. Thigh fillets work best for moisture.
How spicy is this?
Medium. Adjust chili powder to control heat level.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes. Freeze after marinating in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw before cooking.
