
Tandoori Chicken Recipe
Authentic tandoori chicken features traditional marination in yogurt and spices, then grilled instead of clay oven cooking for accessible home preparation. This classic preparation demonstrates how traditional tandoori flavors can be achieved using conventional grilling equipment without sacrificing authentic taste. The yogurt and spice marinade ensures tender, flavorful results while the grilling process adds smoky notes that enhance the overall experience. This authentic approach honors traditional tandoori cooking while adapting techniques for modern home kitchens and equipment. The marinated chicken develops incredible flavor penetration that makes this tandoori preparation rival restaurant and traditional clay oven versions.

Try this authentic tandoori chicken that’s marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked on the grill instead of a clay oven so you can make it at home. Serve with long-grain basmati rice, grilled veggies, roasted corn on the cob, and a cucumber salad.
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken, cut into pieces
1 medium lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon salt
1 ¼ cups plain yogurt
½ medium onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon red food coloring (Optional)
1 teaspoon yellow food coloring (Optional)
2 teaspoons finely chopped cilantro
1 medium lemon, cut into wedges
Directions
Gather all ingredients.
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Remove and discard skin from chicken pieces. Cut slits into meat and place into a shallow dish. Season chicken on both sides with lemon juice and salt. Let sit for 20 minutes.
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Mix yogurt, onion, garlic, garam masala, ginger, and cayenne pepper together in a medium bowl until smooth, then stir in food coloring.
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Spread yogurt mixture over chicken, cover, and refrigerate for 6 to 24 hours (the longer the better).
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When ready to cook, preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. Remove chicken from marinade. Discard remaining marinade.
Cook chicken on the preheated grill until no longer pink and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
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Garnish with cilantro and lemon wedges.
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Recipe Tip
This dish can also be baked in a 450 degrees F (230 degrees C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
356 | Calories |
19g | Fat |
14g | Carbs |
36g | Protein |
Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings Per Recipe 4 | |
Calories 356 | |
% Daily Value * | |
Total Fat 19g | 24% |
Saturated Fat 6g | 28% |
Cholesterol 102mg | 34% |
Sodium 734mg | 32% |
Total Carbohydrate 14g | 5% |
Dietary Fiber 3g | 12% |
Total Sugars 6g | |
Protein 36g | 71% |
Vitamin C 45mg | 50% |
Calcium 201mg | 15% |
Iron 2mg | 12% |
Potassium 575mg | 12% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.