Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken for Marination

Clean and score the chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs). Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Initial Spices

To the chicken, add 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon red chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin powder, 1 tablespoon coriander powder, and 1.5 teaspoons salt.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Paste

Add 1 chopped medium tomato, 1 chopped medium green bell pepper, and 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste to the bowl with the chicken and spices.

Step 4: Mix and Initial Marination

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly with your hands, ensuring the chicken pieces are well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for longer for enhanced flavor.

Step 5: Dry Roast Whole Spices

In a small pan, dry roast 2 small pieces of cinnamon stick and 4-5 green cardamom pods over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant.

Step 6: Add Remaining Spices to Roast

Add 3-4 dried red chilies, 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, and 5-6 cloves to the pan. Continue to dry roast for another 1-2 minutes until all spices are aromatic.

Step 7: Grind Spices

Transfer the roasted spices to a grinder and grind them into a fine powder.

Step 8: Incorporate Ground Spices

Add the freshly ground spice mix to the marinated chicken and mix well to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the new spice blend.

Step 9: Prepare Air Fryer Basket

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with 1 tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 10: Load Air Fryer

Carefully place the marinated chicken pieces into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 11: Air Fry Chicken

Set the air fryer to 200°C (≈390°F) (approximately 390°F) (400°F (≈205°C) (approximately 205°C)) and cook for 25-30 minutes. Flip the chicken pieces halfway through cooking (around 12-15 minutes) to ensure even cooking and browning, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior.

Step 12: Serve Hot

Once the Tandoori chicken is cooked and golden brown with slight charring, remove it from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.

• For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

• Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to allow for even air circulation and crisping.

• Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your preferred spice level.

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked tandoori chicken for an extra tangy flavor.

• You can use other chicken cuts like boneless thighs or breasts, adjusting cooking time as needed.

• Serve with a side of mint chutney or raita for a complete meal.