Tandoori Chicken (Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe)
When you think of Indian cuisine, the vibrant and aromatic dishes come to mind, and Tandoori Chicken is undoubtedly one of the star attractions. This Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe brings the delicious flavors of traditional tandoori cooking straight to your kitchen without the need for a tandoor oven. With a marinade that’s rich in spices and yogurt, every bite is bursting with flavor, making it a dish that’s not only satisfying but also impressively simple to prepare. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why Tandoori Chicken (Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe) is Worth Your Time
Tandoori Chicken is a classic for a reason! The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, which tenderizes the meat while infusing it with an array of flavors. Cooking it in a skillet allows for a quick and easy preparation without sacrificing the delicious smokiness that tandoori dishes are known for. Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—serve it with rice, in wraps, or alongside fresh salads. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Shopping List
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder or cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste or 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ginger paste or 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons tandoori seasoning (or equivalent spices)
- 6 skinless, bone-in chicken pieces
- 2-4 tablespoons salted butter
- 2-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-1-2 smoking chips or one chunk of untreated charcoal
- Oil for drizzle
- For serving: Thin red onion slices, lemon wedges, cilantro, roughly chopped
Before You Start: Equipment
- Large bowl for marinating
- Skillet (cast iron or non-stick recommended)
- Tongs for turning chicken
- Meat thermometer for checking doneness
- Wooden spoon for mixing
Tandoori Chicken (Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe) in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, red chili powder, red pepper flakes, garlic paste, ginger paste, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and tandoori seasoning. Mix until well combined. This rich marinade is what gives the chicken its signature flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the skinless, bone-in chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a resealable plastic bag. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, although overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat Your Skillet
Once your chicken is ready to cook, heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Allow the butter to melt and start bubbling, which indicates that the skillet is hot enough for cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Using tongs, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the skillet, searing them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
Step 5: Add Smoky Flavor
For that authentic tandoori smokiness, once the chicken is browned, add your smoking chips or chunk of charcoal to the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat. This step captures the essence of traditional tandoor cooking.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If not, continue cooking, checking every few minutes.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Serve your Tandoori Chicken with thin red onion slices, fresh lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Dietary Customizations
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the plain yogurt with coconut yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.
- Adjust the spices according to your heat preference; use less red chili powder for a milder dish.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
- Vegetarian option: Use the marinade on cauliflower or tofu instead of chicken, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Behind the Recipe
This Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe is inspired by the traditional cooking methods of North India, where tandoors are a common sight. The use of yogurt not only adds creaminess but also acts as a tenderizing agent, ensuring juicy chicken with every bite. This recipe aims to replicate that authentic experience without the need for specialized equipment. With just a skillet, you can enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of Tandoori Chicken right at home.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have leftovers, Tandoori Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish also makes for excellent meal prep; pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal throughout the week. You can even shred the leftover chicken and use it in wraps or salads for a quick lunch option.
Common Qs About Tandoori Chicken (Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe)
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless chicken cooks faster than bone-in pieces.
What can I serve with Tandoori Chicken?
Tandoori Chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with raita (yogurt sauce) for a cooling contrast to the spices.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to Tandoori Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with cauliflower, paneer, or firm tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly for each option.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
Ready to Cook?
Get your skillet ready, gather your ingredients, and prepare yourself for a culinary experience that will transport you straight to the streets of India. This Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe is a deliciously simple way to enjoy one of the world’s favorite dishes, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant flavors, and happy cooking!
Tandoori Chicken (Easy Skillet Tandoori Chicken Recipe)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, red chili powder, red pepper flakes, garlic paste, ginger paste, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and tandoori seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Add the skinless, bone-in chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of salted butter. Allow the butter to melt and start bubbling.
- Using tongs, remove the chicken from the marinade and place the chicken pieces in the skillet, searing them for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Add your smoking chips or chunk of charcoal to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If not, continue cooking, checking every few minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute plain yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust spices to your heat preference; use less chili powder for milder flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
