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Flavorful Tandoori Spiced Grilled Chicken Thighs

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Juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant tandoori spice yogurt blend and grilled to smoky, charred perfection. Perfect for quick, flavorful meals and crowd-pleasing cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900 grams)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) plain full-fat yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable or mustard oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, tandoori masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix until smooth (about 5 minutes).
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add chicken to the marinade and coat thoroughly, including under the skin where possible. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a ziplock bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  4. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes until a nice char forms. Flip and grill the other side for another 6-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove chicken from grill and let rest on a wire rack or plate for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Serve hot with lemon wedges and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken overnight for best flavor and tenderness. Pat chicken dry before marinating to encourage crispy skin. Control grill heat to avoid burning spices. Use tongs to flip chicken gently to keep juices inside. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. Adding a pinch of sugar to the marinade can enhance caramelization without burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: tandoori chicken, grilled chicken thighs, Indian spices, barbecue, smoky chicken, yogurt marinade, easy grilled chicken

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/flavorful-tandoori-spiced-grilled-chicken-thighs-easy-recipe-for-perfect-charred-flavor/