Print

Tandoori Chicken Recipe

4.7 from 60 reviews

This Tandoori Chicken recipe features tender, boneless chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of Greek yogurt, spices, garlic, and ginger, delivering the authentic smoky and spicy taste of traditional Indian tandoori cooked conveniently using your oven’s broiler. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion, the chicken is juicy inside with a charred, aromatic exterior.

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

  1. Marinate Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs thoroughly with the salt, black pepper, and lime juice to season and tenderize the meat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with minced garlic, fresh ginger, ground cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, and cayenne pepper, mixing well to create a smooth marinade. Add the seasoned chicken into the bowl and mix until each piece is completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours, preferably up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken.
  2. Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: About 20 minutes before cooking, preheat your oven’s broiler or conventional oven to high heat, approximately 450°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and enable easier cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the lined baking sheet ensuring they do not overlap, which allows even cooking and charring.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Cook the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes until the tops appear dry and have developed charred edges, mimicking the effect of a traditional tandoor oven. Flip the chicken pieces over carefully using tongs or a spatula, then continue to broil for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F. Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight or at least 6 hours to allow spices and yogurt to tenderize fully.
  • You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness level according to your preference.
  • Serving suggestion: Serve with naan bread, basmati rice, and a side of cucumber raita for a complete meal.
  • Make sure to monitor the chicken while broiling to prevent burning because oven broilers can vary in intensity.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Keywords: Tandoori Chicken, Indian Chicken Recipe, Broiled Chicken, Spicy Chicken Thighs, Yogurt Marinated Chicken