Tandoori Chicken Thigh

Elevate your dinner game with this flavor-packed Tandoori Chicken Thigh recipe! These juicy, tender chicken thighs are marinated in a creamy yogurt base infused with aromatic spices like garam masala, paprika, and cumin, along with a zesty hint of lemon juice and freshly ground garlic and ginger. Perfectly cooked in the oven or on the grill, this dish boasts a beautiful char and bold smoky flavor that’s synonymous with traditional tandoori cuisine. Choose to add a dash of optional food coloring for that vibrant signature red hue. Ready in under an hour with minimal prep, this recipe is a winning choice for weeknight meals or weekend entertaining. Serve with warm naan, fragrant basmati rice, or a crisp side salad for a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 6 pieces chicken thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 0.5 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 0.25 teaspoon optional red food coloring

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, garlic paste, and ginger paste. Stir until well mixed.

Step 2

Add coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, paprika, salt, and vegetable oil to the yogurt mixture. Mix well to form a smooth marinade. Add optional red food coloring if using.

Step 3

Make 2-3 deep slashes on each chicken thigh to allow the marinade to penetrate better.

Step 4

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.

Step 5

Refrigerate the marinated chicken thighs for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for best results.

Step 6

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a grill to medium-high heat.

Step 7

Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil or on the grill grates.

Step 8

Bake or grill the chicken for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred in spots.

Step 9

Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Step 10

Let the cooked tandoori chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 11

Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced onions and serve with lemon wedges, naan, or rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1257.1 grams (1257.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2399

Total Fat 131.30g	168%
Saturated Fat 35.30g	177%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.90g
Cholesterol 861mg	287%
Sodium 5383mg	234%
Total Carbohydrate 44.60g	16%
Dietary Fiber 5.70g	20%
Total Sugars 18.50g
Protein 252.20g	504%

Vitamin D 181IU	903%
Calcium 663mg	51%
Iron 14mg	80%
Potassium 3303mg	70%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 49.9%

Protein: 42.6%

Carbs: 7.5%