Name: Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 chicken leg quarters (bone-in, skinless); 1/2 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon red chili powder; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Juicy, flavor-packed chicken legs marinated in spiced yogurt and roasted to perfection in the air fryer—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with smoky tandoori flair. This simplified version of the Indian classic requires no tandoor oven, making it accessible, quick, and ideal for busy weeknights or nutritious meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delivers authentic tandoori taste with minimal effort
Air fryer method is healthier and faster than traditional cooking
No need to heat up the oven or grill
Requires only basic pantry spices
Naturally gluten-free and protein-rich
Great for both casual dinners and special occasions

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 chicken leg quarters (bone-in, skinless)
1/2 cup plain yogurt (preferably Greek)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, oil, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, garam masala, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth.
Cut deep slits into the chicken legs to allow the marinade to seep inside.
Rub the marinade thoroughly over the chicken, making sure it gets into the slits.
Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Air fry for 15 minutes, then flip and continue cooking for another 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is slightly charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marination time)
Calories: 290 kcal per serving

Variations

Extra Smoky: Use smoked paprika or finish with the dhungar method for authentic smokiness.
Low-fat Option: Use low-fat yogurt and reduce the oil to 1 teaspoon.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or cauliflower florets.
Spice Control: Adjust chili powder to suit your spice preference.
Herbal Twist: Add chopped mint or fresh fenugreek leaves to the marinade for an herbal accent.

Storage/reheating

Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze marinated uncooked chicken for up to 1 month, or cooked chicken for 2 months.
Reheating: Air fry at 350°F for 5–6 minutes or microwave for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?

A minimum of 4 hours is recommended, but marinating overnight yields the most flavorful results.

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of leg quarters?

Yes, boneless cuts like thighs or breasts can be used. Just reduce cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

What can I serve with air fryer tandoori chicken?

This dish pairs well with naan, basmati rice, raita, or a crisp cucumber salad.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven if I don’t have an air fryer?

Yes, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is the smoked paprika necessary?

It’s optional but adds a smoky depth that mimics traditional tandoori flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Ensure not to overcook. Monitor internal temperature and marinate well to retain moisture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a non-dairy yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt for a dairy-free version.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s moderately spicy. Adjust the red chili powder to your personal preference.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and juices should run clear when pierced.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken offers a quick, flavorful, and healthy way to enjoy the iconic flavors of Indian cuisine. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this dish is a perfect fit for busy households looking to spice up their dinner routine. Enjoy it fresh out of the fryer with your favorite sides and a squeeze of lemon.

Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Juicy, flavor-packed chicken legs marinated in spiced yogurt and roasted to perfection in the air fryer—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with smoky tandoori flair.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marination time)
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: Indian
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, oil, and all the spices into a smooth marinade.
Make deep slits in the chicken legs to help the marinade penetrate.
Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade, making sure it gets into the slits. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 3 minutes.
Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
Cook at 360°F for 15 minutes. Flip the pieces and cook for another 10–12 minutes, or until charred on the edges and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges.