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Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken recipe

Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken

Megan FosterMegan Foster
A delicious and healthy version of traditional tandoori chicken made in the air fryer with bold Indian spices.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 pieces
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 air fryer
  • 1 Mixing bowl large
  • 1 measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

Marinade

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp salt

Chicken

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs skinless and bone-in

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
  • Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Cooking

  • Set the air fryer to 360°F and preheat for about 5 minutes.
  • Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

Serving

  • Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges. Serve with naan or rice.

Storage

  • Allow chicken to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Notes

Pro Tips: Marinate overnight for the best flavor. Lightly spray chicken with oil before air frying for extra crispiness.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
How to Serve: Serve with basmati rice and a side salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge.
Keyword Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken, Easy Tandoori Chicken, Tandoori Chicken