Description
This Tandoori Chicken recipe features tender, boneless chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt, spices, garlic, ginger, and lime juice. The chicken is broiled to achieve a slightly charred and smoky exterior while keeping the inside juicy and aromatic, perfect for a quick and authentic Indian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 lime, juiced
- 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
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and lime juice to season. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, minced ginger, ground cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to create the marinade. Add the chicken to the marinade and ensure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours and up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully infuse the meat.
- Prepare for Cooking: When ready to cook, preheat your oven’s broiler or set the oven to a high temperature of 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure pieces do not overlap for even cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and cook the chicken for about 15 to 20 minutes. Watch for the chicken to develop a dry surface and charred edges, which imparts the characteristic smoky tandoori flavor. Flip the chicken pieces carefully and broil for an additional 10 minutes to ensure thorough cooking and juiciness inside.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- You can use bone-in chicken thighs if preferred; increase cooking time accordingly.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
- Serve with naan bread, rice, or a fresh cucumber raita for a complete meal.
- If you don’t have a broiler, bake at 450°F for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
