Introduction: Grilled Tandoori Chicken Thighs are a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant taste of Indian cuisine to your barbecue. This recipe infuses succulent chicken thighs with a rich blend of traditional Tandoori spices, creating a perfect balance of smokiness and spice. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious grilled dish, these Tandoori Chicken Thighs are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 8 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons Tandoori spice blend
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Marination:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, Tandoori spice blend, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Pat dry the chicken thighs and make deep cuts on each piece.
- Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade, ensuring it gets into the cuts.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.
Grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
- Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked and charred with grill marks.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Important Points:
- Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for an extended period enhances the flavor. Overnight marination is recommended for the best results.
- Grilling Temperature: Maintain a medium-high heat on the grill for perfectly cooked and juicy chicken thighs.
- Cuts on Chicken: Making deep cuts on the chicken allows the marinade to penetrate, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Internal Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it’s thoroughly cooked.
FAQs: Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe? A: Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs. Adjust the grilling time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have Tandoori spice blend? A: You can make your own by combining cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garam masala.
Q: Can I bake the Tandoori Chicken thighs instead of grilling? A: Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.
Enjoy your Grilled Tandoori Chicken Thighs – a perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and juicy goodness!