Juicy and Flavorful Full Chicken Tandoori

Full Chicken Tandoori is one of my family favorite dishes. It is a Pakistani dish in which whole chicken is coated in yogurt-based marinade and then it is roasted in an oven until it gets a crispy exterior and a perfect juicy and tender chicken from inside.

Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven, this authentic tandoori chicken recipe offers a simplified method for achieving succulent and tender chicken infused with a medley of spices.

Full Chicken Tandoori is very popular in Pakistan. The meat is extremely juicy, seasoned with aromatic spice and can be paired with rice or naan making a complete meal.

You can try our more chicken recipes like Authentic Chicken Chargha Recipe: Perfect for Special Occasions, Air Fryer Chicken Kebab Recipe, Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Skewers.

What is Tandoori Chicken?

Tandoori chicken is a beloved dish renowned for its bold flavors and tender texture. Marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric, the chicken is then cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven that imparts a smoky essence and charred exterior. The high heat of the tandoor seals in the juices, resulting in succulent, flavorful chicken with a vibrant red hue. Roast tandoori chicken is often served alongside naan bread, rice, or accompanied by various sauces and chutneys, making it a versatile and satisfying dish enjoyed worldwide.

WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS

1. Authentic Flavor: This recipe stays true to the traditional flavors of Full Chicken Tandoori, allowing you to experience the authentic taste of Pakistan right in your own kitchen. The blend of spices, combined with the yogurt marinade, creates a rich and aromatic dish.
2. Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe makes it convenient for anyone to recreate the magic of Full Chicken Tandoori at home.
3. Versatile Dish: Whether you’re serving it as the star of your dinner table or incorporating it into wraps, salads, or sandwiches for a quick and flavorful meal, the possibilities are endless. You’ll love how versatile and adaptable this dish is, allowing you to get creative with your meal planning and satisfy your cravings in a variety of ways.
4. Healthy Indulgence: Unlike fried or heavily sauced dishes, this recipe marries bold flavors with wholesome ingredients like yogurt and lean chicken, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for any meal.

INGREDIENT NOTES

1. Whole Chicken: A whole chicken, approximately 3-4 pounds, cleaned and patted dry, serves as the flavorful canvas for this Tandoori masterpiece.
2. Plain Yogurt: 1 cup of plain yogurt serves as the base for the marinade, imparting creaminess and tanginess while tenderizing the chicken.
3. Ginger Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons of ginger garlic paste add aromatic depth and pungent flavor to the marinade.
4. Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons of lemon juice provide a bright and citrusy note to the marinade.
5. Tandoori Masala Spice Blend: 2 tablespoons of Tandoori masala spice blend infuse the chicken with the signature flavors.
6. Paprika: 1 tablespoon of paprika adds vibrant color and subtle sweetness to the marinade.
7. Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon of ground cumin contributes earthy and nutty undertones to the marinade, enhancing its complexity.
8. Ground Coriander: 1 teaspoon of ground coriander lends citrusy and floral notes to the marinade, elevating its aromatic profile.
9. Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder provides vibrant color and mild warmth to the marinade.
10. Salt: Salt to taste balances the flavors of the marinade, ensuring a well-seasoned and delicious final dish.
11. Fresh Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish, add a pop of freshness and herbal brightness to the finished Full Chicken Tandoori.
12. Lemon Wedges: Lemon wedges, for serving, provide a refreshing citrusy burst that enhances the overall dining experience.

OPTIONAL ITEMS:

• For an extra layer of warmth and complexity, consider adding 1 tablespoon of garam masala to the marinade.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of red chili powder to the marinade.
• While the yogurt in the marinade helps keep the chicken moist, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for additional richness and flavor.
• For added flavor and visual appeal, consider adding sliced onion and bell pepper to the roasting tray alongside the chicken.

HOW TO MAKE FULL CHICKEN TANDOORI: STEP BY STEP

Marinating the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons of ginger garlic paste, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of Tandoori masala spice blend, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined, forming a smooth and creamy marinade.
2. Score the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the whole chicken, making shallow cuts all over. This allows the marinade to penetrate the meat, ensuring maximum flavor infusion and tenderization.
3. Coat the Chicken: Place the scored chicken into the bowl with the marinade, ensuring it is well coated on all sides. Massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure to get it into all the nooks and crannies. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the chicken to tenderize.

Cooking the Tandoori Chicken:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for roasting the chicken.
2. Prepare the Roasting Rack: Place a roasting rack inside a baking tray. This allows the air to circulate around the chicken while it cooks, ensuring even browning and crispiness.
3. Transfer the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and transfer it to the prepared roasting rack, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken breast-side up, ensuring it is evenly positioned on the rack.
4. Roast the Chicken: Place the baking tray with the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for 45-55 minutes, or until the skin is charred and crispy, and the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F (75°C) on a meat thermometer.
5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the Full Chicken Tandoori from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken. Enjoy the succulent and flavorful Full Chicken Tandoori.

ALTERNATIVE COOKING METHODS   

• Grilling: Cook marinated whole chicken tandoori on a preheated grill over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Broiling: Place chicken on a broiler pan or wire rack set inside a baking sheet. Broil on high for 6-8 minutes per side, about 6 inches from the heat source, until charred and cooked through. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
• Instant Pot: Sear marinated chicken in Instant Pot on sauté mode for 2-3 minutes per side. Add chicken broth, lock lid, and pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes. Natural release for 5 minutes, then broil in the oven to crisp skin.

TEMPERATURE INSTRUCTIONS

For Full Chicken Tandoori, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure optimal cooking temperature. Roast the marinated chicken for 45-55 minutes until the skin is crispy and charred, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). After cooking, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. These temperature instructions ensure perfectly cooked Tandoori chicken with a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

VARIATIONS

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian alternative, you can use tofu or paneer (Indian cottage cheese) instead of chicken. Marinate the tofu or paneer in the same Tandoori marinade and grill or broil until charred and cooked through.
• Tandoori Chicken Wings: For a fun twist, you can use chicken wings instead of a whole chicken. Marinate the wings in the Tandoori marinade and bake them until crispy.
• Tandoori Chicken Salad: Use leftover Tandoori chicken to create a vibrant and flavorful salad. Slice the cooked chicken and serve it on a bed of mixed greens, along with diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of mint yogurt dressing.
• Tandoori Chicken Pizza: Transform the Tandoori chicken into a unique pizza topping. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce or yogurt sauce on pizza dough, top with sliced Tandoori chicken, red onions, bell peppers, and mozzarella cheese.

ADDITIONS

• Pickled Onions: Add a tangy crunch to your Tandoori chicken by serving it with quick-pickled onions. Thinly slice red onions and soak them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roast a medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant to serve alongside the Tandoori chicken. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized
• Lemon Wedges and Fresh Herbs: Garnish the Full Chicken Tandoori with lemon wedges and fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Squeezing lemon juice over the chicken adds a burst of citrusy flavor.
• Mango Chutney: Add a sweet and tangy element to your Tandoori chicken spread with mango chutney. Serve a spoonful of mango chutney on the side to complement the savory flavors of the chicken.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH FULL CHICKEN TANDOORI

• Basmati Rice: Fragrant Basmati rice is the perfect accompaniment to Full Chicken Tandoori.
• Naan Bread: Serve warm naan bread brushed with garlic butter or sprinkled with chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling cucumber raita is the perfect contrast to the spicy Tandoori chicken. Mix together grated cucumber, plain yogurt, chopped mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, salt, and a pinch of sugar for a refreshing and creamy side dish.
• Mint Chutney: Spicy mint chutney adds a burst of flavor to the meal and complements the Tandoori chicken perfectly.

COOKING TIPS

1. For the most flavorful and tender chicken, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Before marinating, score the surface of the chicken with a sharp knife. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat.
3. When roasting the chicken in the oven, place it on a roasting rack set inside a baking tray.
4. During the cooking process, baste the chicken with the leftover marinade at regular intervals.
5. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s safe to eat.

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