Tandoori Chicken Yogurt Marinade (Printable Format)

Tender chicken marinated in spiced yogurt, oven-baked for smoky flavor and served with fresh garnishes.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Chicken and Marinade

01 - 3.3 lbs chicken pieces, drumsticks and thighs preferred
02 - 1 1/2 cups plain full-fat yogurt
03 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
04 - 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
05 - 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
06 - 5 garlic cloves, minced
07 - 3 teaspoons garam masala
08 - 1 1/2 tablespoons paprika
09 - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
10 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin
11 - 2 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
12 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
13 - 1 teaspoon salt

→ To Serve

14 - Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
15 - Lemon wedges, for serving

# Preparation Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, vegetable oil, lemon juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth and uniform.
02 - Using a sharp knife, make 2 to 3 deep slashes into each chicken piece. Add chicken to the marinade, ensuring every piece is completely coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours to allow flavors to infuse.
03 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and set a wire rack over it. Lightly grease the rack to prevent sticking.
04 - Arrange marinated chicken pieces on the prepared rack. Bake for 30 minutes, then turn each piece and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred at the edges. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
05 - Rest chicken for several minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with lemon wedges. Complements well with rice, naan, or a fresh salad.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - For deeper flavor, marinate chicken for the full 24 hours and allow it to come to room temperature before baking.