Name: Indian Tikka Spiced Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 28 oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into large chunks; 5.3 oz plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 ½ tsp garam masala; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp chili powder, adjust to taste; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper; Fresh cilantro leaves; Lemon wedges; Sliced red onion

Ingredients

28 oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into large chunks

5.3 oz plain Greek yogurt

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp vegetable oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

2 tsp ground cumin

2 tsp ground coriander

2 tsp smoked paprika

1 ½ tsp garam masala

1 tsp ground turmeric

1 tsp chili powder, adjust to taste

1 tsp salt

½ tsp ground black pepper

Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Sliced red onion, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the marinade by whisking together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight to enhance the flavors.

Step 3: Preheat the oven to 430°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top to allow airflow beneath the chicken.

Step 4: Arrange the marinated chicken pieces evenly on the wire rack, shaking off any excess marinade to prevent dripping.

Step 5: Roast the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through cooking. The chicken should be cooked through with slightly charred edges.

Step 6: For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end of roasting.

Step 7: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after roasting. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, lemon wedges, and sliced red onion before serving.

Tips & Variations

Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors and makes the meat more tender.

Adjust the chili powder according to your preferred spice level.

Serve with naan bread or basmati rice for a complete meal.

For a smoky flavor, you can cook the chicken on a charcoal grill instead of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when marinated and cooked with these spices.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. The edges should be slightly charred for the best texture.