Tandoori Chicken

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1. 1Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, stir together yogurt, ginger garlic paste, garam masala, red chili powder, pepper, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, salt, kasuri methi, chaat masala (optional), oil and lemon juice. Taste test to adjust salt and spice/heat levels to your preference.
2. 2Step 2: Make 3 to 4 deep slits on chicken legs/quarters (or 2 to 3 on drumstick, thighs or breasts). Coat them with the marinade well and cover with cling wrap. Let rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours to overnight for best results (or maximum of 36 hours)
3. 3Step 3: Bring the chicken out of the refrigerator 20 mins before you plan to grill.
4. 4Step 4: Preheat the oven to 470 F – 240 C. (If using a smaller oven like an OTG, preheat at 430 F – 220 C). Place a wire rack over a baking tray, lined with foil for easy clean-up. Spray or brush oil over the wire rack.
5. 5Step 5: Arrange the marinated chicken on the rack, spacing 1 to 2 inches apart. Roast/ bake for 15 mins. Baste with leftover marinade or chili oil.
6. 6Step 6: If using chicken quarters/ legs or thighs, using a tong, turn them to the other side and repeat roasting for another 12 to 15 mins (omit this if using drumsticks & breasts). Brush them with chili oil/ melted butter or spray oil.
7. 7Step 7: Place the tray in the top rack & broil for 3 to 4 mins, until you see some charred spots. The timings can vary depending on your oven and the size of chicken. So adjust accordingly.
8. 8Step 8: When the chicken is cooked through, an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165 to 170 F (75 C). (Optionally you may smoke the chicken following the steps in my post.)
9. 9Step 9: Brush Tandoori Chicken with melted butter, sprinkle a few pinches of chaat masala (for a restaurant style) and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
10. 10Step 10: Serve with Cilantro Chutney or Pudina Mint Chutney alongside sliced onion, cucumbers and lemon wedges. For a complete meal, serve it with Turmeric rice, kachumber and Cucumber raita.
11. 11Step 11: Preheat your air fryer to 390 F or 200 C. Place the marinated chicken on the greased basket. Air fry for 20 mins, turning to the otherside after 10 to 12 mins or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165 F.
12. 12Step 12: Brush tandoori chicken with red chili oil if you want for extra flavor. Air fry for another 2 mins. Brush with melted butter before serving.