Imagine the tantalizing aroma of succulent chicken, spiced to perfection, wafting through your home. There’s something magical about the process of whipping up Tandoori Chicken – the sizzle, the vibrant colors, and the anticipation of that first bite. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family together. Whether it’s a weekend gathering or a special occasion, Tandoori Chicken makes its mark with its rich flavors and festive appeal. Let’s celebrate these golden culinary moments and create lasting memories around the table.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably full-fat)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Start by prepping the chicken drumsticks. Make a few deep slashes in each piece to help the marinade penetrate better.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks on the wire rack, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for that extra zing.
Helpful Tips
- If you are short on time, a minimum of 1-hour marination can work, but longer marination ensures deeper flavor.
- For a smokier flavor, consider grilling the chicken over charcoal instead of baking.
Storage and Ingredient Substitutions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- If you don’t have garam masala, you can substitute with an equal amount of curry powder.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt as a substitute for plain yogurt.
Pairings
Serve your Tandoori Chicken with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal. A side of cucumber raita and a cooling mint chutney would complement the spicy flavors perfectly. Don’t forget a refreshing glass of mango lassi to balance out the heat!
