Tandoori chicken

Story behind the dish

Tandoori chicken is a vibrant and aromatic dish that hails from the bustling kitchens of India. Its fiery hues and bold flavors have made it a favorite worldwide, transforming simple chicken into a culinary masterpiece. Imagine the smoky aroma wafting through the air as juicy, tender pieces emerge from the grill, ready to delight any palate. For many, it’s more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of bold spices and rich traditions.

Once you master this flavorful marinade, you'll be able to bring that authentic tandoori taste right into the comfort of your home, impressing friends and family alike. The secret lies in the lively spice blend and the succulence of perfectly grilled chicken. Let's get ready to create a dish that’s both beautiful and bursting with flavor!

Ingredients

• 2 juice lemons (about ¼ cup or 2 fl oz)
• 4 teaspoons paprika
• 2 red onions, finely chopped
• 16 skinless chicken thighs
• Vegetable oil, for brushing
• 1 cup (240 ml) Greek yogurt
• Large piece of ginger, grated (about 2 tablespoons)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ teaspoon garam masala
• ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric

Step-by-step

1. In a large shallow dish, mix together the lemon juice, paprika, and chopped red onions.
2. Slash each chicken thigh three times to help the marinade penetrate, then turn the chicken in the lemon-yellow mixture. Let sit for 10 minutes to begin flavor infusion.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated ginger, minced garlic, garam masala, ground cumin, chili powder, and turmeric to create your marinade.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well coated. Mix everything together, then cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (You can prepare this all a day ahead — flavors deepen with time!)
5. When ready to cook, preheat your grill until hot. Using a rack over a baking tray, lift the marinated chicken thighs onto it.
6. Brush the chicken lightly with vegetable oil to foster that beautiful char.
7. Grill the chicken for about 8 minutes on each side, or until they’re lightly charred and cooked through to the center.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For extra smokiness, add some soaked wood chips to your grill before cooking.
• Serve your tandoori chicken with naan, basmati rice, and a side of cooling raita for a complete, satisfying meal.

Closing thoughts

There's something truly magical about grilling chicken coated in spice and yogurt — it’s a feast for the senses. As the flavors meld and the chicken turns a glorious charred hue, you'll feel like you've brought a small piece of Indian street food magic into your own backyard. Share this dish with loved ones, and watch how it transforms a simple meal into a colorful celebration of flavor. Happy grilling!