Classic Tandoori Chicken, Morni Style

Juicy, smoky, and bursting with bold Indian spices The Classic Tandoori Chicken — your grill's new best friend!

PREP TIME

15 mins

COOK TIME

30 mins

SERVINGS

For 4 People

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1½ teaspoons Kashmiri red chili powder (for color and mild heat)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
½ teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smokiness)
1½ teaspoons salt
A few drops of red food coloring (optional, for restaurant-style look)

For the Chicken:

8 bone-in, skinless chicken drumsticks or thighs (about 2 lbs)
Fresh coriander leaves & lemon wedges (for garnish)
Sliced onions (optional, for serving)

Equipment Used:

To achieve that authentic smoky flavor and perfect char, we recommend using the following Tandoor Morni equipment:

Tandoor Model: R26 – 20″ x 26″ Round – Residential Mini Tandoor

Compact yet powerful, the R26 Residential Mini Tandoor is perfect for backyard cooking. Made with authentic clay and fueled by charcoal or wood fire, it brings home the traditional tandoori flavor. Ideal for small gatherings, it can cook up to 10 servings with that signature smoky char.
Accessories: Stainless Steel Skewers

Built for high heat, these skewers are perfect for tandoor cooking. They hold your chicken firmly while allowing even roasting in the clay oven.

Nutrition Facts

(per servings)

Calories…………………………..…………………..…………. 285

Protein…………………………..…………………..………….. 28g

Fat.…………………………..…………….……………………..16g

Saturated Fat…………………………………………………… 4g

Carbohydrates………………………..…………………..……5g

Fiber………………………….………………….……………….1g

Sugars………………………..………………….………………3g

Sodium………………………..………………….……….700mg

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

To begin making classic tandoori chicken, rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Use a sharp knife to make 2–3 deep slits in each piece. These cuts allow the rich marinade to seep deep into the meat, creating that signature depth of flavor we all love in authentic classic tandoori chicken.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, prepare the vibrant marinade that gives classic tandoori chicken its bold personality. Combine thick yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, a drizzle of oil, and a mix of traditional Indian spices—like turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and Kashmiri red chili powder. For a restaurant-style look, add a touch of red food coloring (optional). Whisk until smooth and aromatic.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken into the marinade, making sure every piece is evenly coated. The slits will help absorb all those spicy, tangy flavors. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours. For the most flavorful classic tandoori chicken, let it marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!

Step 4: Preheat the Tandoor Morni Oven

Before cooking, fire up your Tandoor Morni gas or charcoal tandoor. Preheating is crucial when making classic tandoori chicken, as the high heat ensures a crispy exterior while sealing in the juices. Wait 30–45 minutes until your tandoor reaches 500°F to 600°F and the walls are evenly hot.

Step 5: Skewer the Chicken

Carefully skewer the marinated pieces, leaving a little space between each to allow the heat to circulate. Proper skewering ensures even cooking and that delicious smoky char associated with classic tandoori chicken made in traditional clay ovens.

Step 6: Cook in Tandoor

Lower the skewers into the preheated tandoor, letting the ends rest securely on the rim. Cook your classic tandoori chicken for about 20–25 minutes, rotating the skewers halfway through for a balanced sear. Use tandoor gloves or a skewer handle for safety. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Once your classic tandoori chicken is beautifully charred with that irresistible tandoori crust, remove the skewers and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle for maximum tenderness.

Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges, crunchy onion rings, and a refreshing mint-coriander chutney. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend dinner or showcasing Indian cuisine at your restaurant, classic tandoori chicken is always a hit.

Pro Tips for Perfect Classic Tandoori Chicken

Marinate Overnight for Maximum Flavor: The longer the chicken soaks in the marinade, the more flavorful your classic tandoori chicken will be. Overnight marination is ideal.
Use Hung Curd or Thick Yogurt: Watery yogurt can make the marinade runny and less effective. Always use thick or strained yogurt for a richer coating that clings well to the chicken.
Get the Tandoor Smoking Hot: For that authentic char and smokiness, make sure your Tandoor Morni oven is fully preheated. The intense heat creates the classic texture that defines classic tandoori chicken.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave enough space between pieces on the skewer to allow for even cooking. It helps get that uniform tandoori char.
Rest Before Serving: Let your classic tandoori chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking. This locks in the juices and keeps the meat tender and moist.
Add a Smoky Finish Indoors: No tandoor? No problem! You can replicate the smoky flavor by heating a piece of charcoal until red hot, placing it in a small bowl inside your dish, and pouring a spoon of ghee over it. Cover the dish immediately for 5–10 minutes for a quick dhungar (smoke) effect.

Need Help? Order and Technical Support

Have questions or ready to place an order? Reach out to us via phone at +1(727) 251 6924 or email us at info@tandoormorni.com. Need detailed instructions? Explore the Operation Manual for our CH & CS models to get started with your Tandoor oven today.

About Tandoor Morni

Tandoor Morni, in business since 1992, is a trusted name in premium Tandoori Clay Ovens, known for crafting high-quality traditional and commercial tandoors. With a commitment to excellence, Tandoor Morni offers a wide range of tandoors, including commercial, residential, catering, and copper models. Our tandoors are built with durable materials and designed for efficient heat distribution, ensuring authentic flavors and fast cooking. Each oven features customizable options like gas, wood fire, or charcoal compatibility, making them suitable for various cooking needs.