Description:
This air fryer tandoori chicken is juicy, flavorful, and infused with aromatic spices. Perfectly cooked with a golden char, it’s a delicious dish served with naan, rice, or salad.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marination Time: 2-4 hours (or overnight)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~4 hours 35 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs, skinless
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp tandoori masala powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Red food coloring (optional for traditional color)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lemon wedges
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic paste, ginger paste, tandoori masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Add red food coloring if desired.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Make small cuts in the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Place the marinated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges, naan bread, or cucumber salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
Notes:
- For a smoky flavor, briefly grill the chicken after air frying.
- Substitute chicken drumsticks with boneless thighs or breasts.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes.
Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic air fryer tandoori chicken—a healthy and delicious take on a classic! 🍗✨