Name: Baked Tandoori Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups plain whole-milk yogurt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 1/2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger; 5 garlic cloves; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 1/2 tablespoons Kashmiri chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 1/4 teaspoons turmeric powder; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 2 1/4 teaspoons ground coriander; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 1/2 pounds chicken drumsticks; Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

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Every time I think of the Baked Tandoori Chicken, I can almost taste that rich, spiced flavor dancing on my palate. There’s something undeniably special about gathering friends and family around the table to share this dish. The aroma wafting through the air as the chicken bakes is simply irresistible, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and warmth. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was for a cozy gathering, and everyone raved about how juicy and flavorful it was. The vibrant colors and spices always have a way of brightening up any meal, transforming an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. I can’t help but smile every time I serve it, as the joy on my loved ones’ faces is priceless.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
390 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
26 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Whisk, Grater, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife

Why We Love This Baked Tandoori Chicken

1. Flavor Explosion

The Baked Tandoori Chicken is not just chicken; it’s a flavor journey! The combination of spices creates a rich tapestry of tastes that dance together harmoniously. From the depth of the garam masala to the zing of the ginger and garlic, each bite is an invitation to savor.

2. Healthier Option

This version of tandoori chicken is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to fried chicken. Using yogurt as a marinade helps tenderize the meat while adding a rich creaminess without excess fat. Plus, it’s baked instead of fried, which makes it a guilt-free indulgence!

3. Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up with minimal effort. Just marinate the chicken, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a knockout dish ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough for special occasions.

4. Versatile Serving Options

The Baked Tandoori Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side of rice, naan, or a fresh salad to balance the spices. You can even shred the leftover chicken for sandwiches or wraps the next day. It adapts beautifully to various sides!

5. A Crowd-Pleaser

Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of spices appeals to all palates, making it a beloved staple at gatherings. Your guests will be asking for the recipe!

Essential Ingredients for Baked Tandoori Chicken

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s rich in flavor and deeply satisfying. The magic lies in the combination of spices, which enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this recipe special.

1 1/2 cups plain whole-milk yogurt: The base of the marinade; it tenderizes the chicken and adds creaminess.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist during baking.
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds a zesty flavor that brightens the dish.
2 1/2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger: Provides a warm, spicy note.
5 minced garlic cloves: Enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic essence.
1 tablespoon garam masala: A spice blend that brings warmth and depth.
1 1/2 tablespoons Kashmiri chili powder: Adds color and mild heat.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Use to adjust the heat level to your liking.
1 1/4 teaspoons turmeric powder: Contributes a beautiful golden color and earthy flavor.
2 teaspoons ground cumin: Works well with other spices to create a robust flavor.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of sweetness and color.
2 1/4 teaspoons ground coriander: Adds a citrusy element that complements the spices.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
2 1/2 pounds bone-in and skin-on chicken drumsticks: The star of the dish!
Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds a fresh touch and color.

Step by Step Guide for Baked Tandoori Chicken

Cooking the Baked Tandoori Chicken is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll create a dish that not only looks fantastic but tastes divine. Let’s get started!

In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, ginger, garlic, garam masala, Kashmiri chili powder, cayenne pepper, turmeric, cumin, paprika, coriander, and salt. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a smooth marinade. The texture should be creamy and slightly thick.
Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss well to coat them in the marinade. Make sure every piece is generously covered. This step is crucial for flavor penetration. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This setup helps the chicken cook evenly and allows excess marinade to drip away.
Once preheated, arrange the marinated chicken on the rack in a single layer. The chicken should not be overcrowded to ensure it cooks properly. Bake for 20 minutes, then baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade to keep it moist.
Continue baking for another 10 minutes. During this time, the chicken will start to develop a lovely golden color. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Next, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C). This step is vital to achieve a slight char on the chicken. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is lightly charred in spots. The skin should look crispy and golden brown.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Before serving, garnish the Baked Tandoori Chicken with freshly chopped cilantro. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinade Time Matters: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight is ideal!
Even Cooking: Using a wire rack helps circulate the heat, giving you a perfectly cooked chicken that’s crispy on the outside.
Check the Temperature: For safety, make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste; add more cayenne pepper for heat or use paprika for a sweeter profile.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

The Baked Tandoori Chicken is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to adapt this recipe to suit your style. Here are some tips that can help you customize this dish.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
Pairing: This chicken goes wonderfully with naan, rice, or a fresh salad.
Spice Level: Adjust the level of heat in your marinade by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Garnishes: Try topping the chicken with additional fresh herbs like mint or green onions for a fresh finish.

Pairing Suggestions for Baked Tandoori Chicken

Pairing your Baked Tandoori Chicken with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some fantastic ideas to serve alongside this dish:

Fluffy Basmati Rice: The perfect canvas for soaking up all the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Garlic Naan: A must-have for mopping up every bit of marinade; it adds a lovely touch to the meal.
Fresh Salad: A simple salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light dressing balances the spices.
Raita: A cooling yogurt-based sauce that complements the spices well; it’s refreshing and helps tone down the heat.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and spices for a vibrant touch.
Ideal for Gatherings: This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings, where everyone can enjoy and share!

FAQ

The Baked Tandoori Chicken is special because it combines traditional Indian spices with the health benefits of baking instead of frying. The marinade, made from yogurt and a blend of spices, ensures that the chicken remains tender and flavorful. This dish not only pleases the palate but also brings a burst of color to your table, making it perfect for gatherings.

Absolutely! You can prepare the Baked Tandoori Chicken in advance by marinating it the night before. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in an even more flavorful dish. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

There are plenty of delicious options to serve with Baked Tandoori Chicken. Consider pairing it with fluffy basmati rice, garlic naan, or a fresh salad. Raita, a yogurt-based sauce, is also a great accompaniment to cool down the spices and add a fresh flavor.

Yes! The Baked Tandoori Chicken can be adjusted to be kid-friendly by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper. The spices used are flavorful without being overwhelmingly spicy, making it appealing for younger palates. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids to new flavors!

Conclusion

The Baked Tandoori Chicken truly stands out with its rich blend of spices and healthy cooking method. It’s a fantastic dish to make for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you! It’s an enjoyable cooking experience that results in a meal everyone will love.