Life of Simple Treats (LOST)

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Air fryer Tandoori Chicken

Weeknight meals need to be quick, delicious, and nutritious, and this air fryer tandoori chicken recipe ticks all those boxes. If you're looking for a low-carb, high-protein dish that comes together in just 15 minutes, this is the recipe for you.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Weeknights:

  1. Quick and Easy Preparation:

    • The marinade comes together with just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Chicken thighs, yogurt, minced garlic and ginger, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and salt create a flavorful and aromatic mix that infuses the chicken with traditional tandoori flavors.

  2. Minimal Hands-On Time:

    • After mixing the marinade, the only hands-on work required is skewering the chicken and flipping it halfway through cooking. This allows you to multitask or simply relax while the air fryer does the hard work.

  3. Health Benefits:

    • This recipe is not only low in carbs but also high in protein, making it a great option for those who are mindful of their macros. The use of yogurt in the marinade adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor while keeping the dish light.

  4. Versatile and Customizable:

    • You can adjust the spices to suit your taste. Prefer it spicier? Add more red chili powder. Want a bit more color? Increase the paprika. This recipe is versatile enough to cater to your personal preferences.

  5. Air Fryer Efficiency:

    • Cooking the chicken in an air fryer at 180°C for just 15 minutes ensures that the meat is perfectly cooked and juicy. The air fryer gives it a beautiful char, reminiscent of traditional tandoori chicken cooked in a clay oven, but with much less fuss and time.

  6. Perfect for Meal Prep:

    • This recipe is also great for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken in advance and refrigerate it. When you're ready to cook, just pop it into the air fryer. It's an excellent way to have a nutritious meal ready to go on those hectic nights.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the hot tandoori chicken for a burst of freshness.

  • Pair it with a simple side salad, some steamed vegetables, or a low-carb side like cauliflower rice to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.

Recipe

Ingredients

450 grams chicken thighs cut into bite sized pieces

1/2 cup Greek yogurt plain

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh squeezed

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ginger paste

1 teaspoon paprika sweet or smoked

1 teaspoon chili powder

1.5 teaspoons turmeric

1/2 teaspoon cumin

Method

  • Combine pieces of chicken, yogurt, spices, garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl. Mix well. Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour in the fridge.

  • Add chicken to skewers and place in the basket of air fryer. (you may need to cut down skewers so they fit)


  • Cook the tandoori chicken skewers for 10 minutes at 180 degrees. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Repeat until all kebabs are cooked.


  • Add chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime as a garnish and serve.