Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Chicken

   Score the chicken leg pieces with a knife to allow the marinade to penetrate deeply.

2. 2.Mix the Marinade

   In a large bowl, combine 1½ tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp kasuri methi, 1 tsp coriander powder, 2 tbsp red chilli powder, ½ tsp turmeric powder, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp grated garlic, ½ cup yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp salt.

3. 3.Form the Marinade Paste

   Mix all the marinade ingredients thoroughly until a thick, uniform paste is formed.

4. 4.Marinate the Chicken

   Add the scored chicken leg pieces to the marinade bowl. Use your hands to mix and coat the chicken evenly with the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well covered.

5. 5.Refrigerate Chicken

   Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

6. 6.Prepare Mint Chutney Base

   To prepare the mint chutney, add 1 cup mint leaves, ½ cup coriander leaves, 1 tsp sugar, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp cumin powder, ½ tsp chaat masala powder, and 1 spoon yogurt to a food processor.

7. 7.Blend Chutney Ingredients

   Blend the ingredients in the food processor until they form a coarse paste.

8. 8.Add Aromatics to Chutney

   Add 2 cloves garlic and 2 green chillies to the food processor with the mint mixture.

9. 9.Final Chutney Blend

   Blend again until the chutney mixture is smooth and well combined.

10. 10.Whisk Yogurt for Chutney

    Pour 1 cup of yogurt into a separate bowl and whisk until it is smooth and creamy.

11. 11.Combine Chutney

    Add the blended mint chutney into the whisked yogurt and mix well to combine, creating a refreshing dipping sauce.

12. 12.Prepare Air Fryer

    Preheat your air fryer. Lightly spray cooking oil onto the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.

13. 13.Air Fry Chicken (First Round)

    Carefully place the marinated chicken pieces into the air fryer basket. Spray a little more oil over the chicken pieces for extra crispiness. Air fry the chicken at 200°C for 15 minutes.

14. 14.Air Fry Chicken (Second Round)

    After the first 15 minutes, remove the basket, flip the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking, and air fry for another 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, tender, and has a nice charred exterior.

15. 15.Serve

    Serve the hot air-fried tandoori chicken immediately with the prepared mint chutney and sliced red onions. Garnish with fresh coriander for a vibrant finish.