Tandoori Chicken Recipe
If you are searching for the best tandoori chicken recipe, you’ve landed at the right place. Tandoori chicken is one of the most iconic Indian dishes, loved for its smoky aroma, spicy marinade, and tender meat. From roadside dhabas in Punjab to five-star restaurants around the world, this dish has made its mark as a symbol of Indian cuisine.
In this article, you’ll discover everything about homemade tandoori chicken—its origin, ingredients, authentic recipe, cooking tips, variations, and even nutrition details. By the end, you’ll be ready to prepare this easy tandoori chicken recipe in your own kitchen and impress your family and guests.
What is Tandoori Chicken?
Tandoori chicken is a dish of roasted chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, cooked at high temperatures in a clay oven known as a tandoor. The intense heat gives the chicken its unique smoky flavor and slightly charred edges. Traditionally, wood or charcoal is used in tandoors, adding natural smokiness.
Today, even without a tandoor, you can make this dish at home using an oven, grill, or even a stovetop pan. The secret lies in the marinade and the right cooking method.
History of Tandoori Chicken
The roots of tandoori chicken go back to Punjab, India. It was popularized in the 1940s by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi. His clay oven recipes revolutionized Indian cooking and introduced dishes like tandoori chicken, butter chicken, and naan to the world.
Since then, tandoori chicken has become a global favorite, often featured in Indian buffets, restaurants, and street food stalls.
Ingredients for Tandoori Chicken Recipe
To prepare the authentic tandoori chicken, gather the following fresh and organic ingredients:
Chicken
1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces) or 1 kg chicken legs/thighs
Marinade
- 1 cup thick yogurt (hung curd)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tbsp mustard oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
Optional (for deeper flavor & color):
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- A pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Tandoori Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Wash and pat dry chicken pieces.
- Make 2–3 deep cuts on each piece so the marinade penetrates.
Step 2: First Marination
- Rub chicken with lemon juice, salt, and chili powder.
- Let it rest for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Second Marination
- In a bowl, whisk yogurt until smooth.
- Add ginger-garlic paste, mustard oil, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and black pepper.
- Mix well into a thick marinade.
- Coat chicken pieces generously.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight is best).
Step 4: Cooking Methods
Oven Method (Most Common at Home):
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Place marinated chicken on a wire rack over a baking tray.
3. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway.
4. Broil for 5 minutes to get charred edges.
Grill Method (For Smoky Flavor):
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high.
2. Place chicken pieces on the grill.
3. Cook for 15–20 minutes, brushing occasionally with oil.
Stovetop Pan Method (Quick & Easy):
1. Heat a heavy pan or skillet.
2. Add a little oil and cook chicken pieces on medium heat.
3. Cover with a lid and cook for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
Step 5: Serving
- Garnish with coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with mint chutney, onion rings, and lemon wedges.
Variations of Tandoori Chicken
1. Tandoori Chicken Tikka – Boneless cubes of chicken marinated and grilled on skewers.
2. Malai Tandoori Chicken – A creamier version with fresh cream and cheese.
3. Spicy Tandoori Chicken – Add extra chili powder and green chilies for heat lovers.
4. Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken – A healthier option cooked with little oil.
Serving Suggestions
Tandoori chicken is versatile and pairs beautifully with many side dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- With naan or roti and green chutney.
- Alongside jeera rice or biryani.
- As a starter for parties with salad.
- Shredded in wraps, sandwiches, or rolls.
- With chilled lassi or masala chai for an Indian touch.
Nutrition Value of Tandoori Chicken (Per Serving ~200g)
- Calories: 265 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
It is high in protein, relatively low in fat (if cooked without excess oil), and packed with antioxidants from the spices.
Tips for Making the Best Tandoori Chicken
1. Use thick yogurt for a rich marinade.
2. Marinate overnight for the best flavor.
3. Add mustard oil for an authentic taste.
4. Char the edges for restaurant-style smokiness.
5. Do not overcook the chicken will dry out.
The authentic tandoori chicken recipe is simple yet full of flavor. With its smoky aroma, tender meat, and spice-rich marinade, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy at home with family and friends. Whether you make it in an oven, on a grill, or in an air fryer, this dish never disappoints.
So next time you crave an Indian classic, try this best homemade tandoori chicken recipe and bring restaurant-style flavors right into your kitchen.
