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Authentic TANDOORI CHICKEN In Air Fryer

Authentic TANDOORI CHICKEN In Air Fryer

Tandoori chicken gets its name from the traditional Indian clay oven called a tandoor. The chicken is marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then cooked at high temperatures, resulting in a flavorful and slightly charred dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 1 day 1 hour 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 460
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 ½ cups full-fat plain yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons Kashmiri chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • ½ teaspoon red food coloring optional, for color
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, grated ginger, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Kashmiri chili powder, ground coriander, garam masala, ground cumin, vegetable oil, lemon juice, red food coloring, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk until fully blended.
  2. Remove excess fat and skin from the chicken leg quarters. Add chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken in the basket, skin-side down (even without skin). Do not overcrowd. Air fry for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken on a wire rack over a roasting pan for even cooking. Roast for 55-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Blend together cilantro, mint leaves, green chili, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust consistency with a splash of water if needed.
  6. Rinse 2 cups of basmati rice until the water runs clear. Cook with 3 cups of water, a pinch of salt, and a bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until fluffy.

Notes

Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or in a 350°F oven until heated through.