Crispy Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks: Easy and Flavorful

I’m very happy to share with you one of my favorite dishes: air fryer tandoori chicken drumsticks. This dish is bursting with bold flavors from the traditional Indian spices and has a wonderful smoky aroma.

Using an air fryer makes this easy tandoori chicken recipe a healthier option compared to the traditional method, while still delivering that authentic taste. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.

Essential Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients:

Cooking Equipment

To prepare and cook tandoori chicken drumsticks, you’ll need the following equipment:

How to Prepare Tandoori Chicken Marinade

Creating the perfect tandoori marinade is key to this dish. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of yogurt.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for acidity.
3. Mix in 2 tablespoons of tandoori masala, 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and paprika.
4. For extra heat, add 1 teaspoon of chili powder (optional).
5. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 inch of grated ginger.
6. Finally, add 1 teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
7. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, spiced yogurt mixture.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is essential for optimal flavor. Here’s how to do it:

1. Using a sharp knife, make 2-3 slashes on each chicken drumstick. This helps the marinade penetrate better.
2. Coat the drumsticks thoroughly with the tandoori marinade. Make sure each piece is well-covered.
3. Place the marinated drumsticks on a plate or tray.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavor infusion to develop fully.

Air Frying the Chicken

Cooking tandoori chicken in the air fryer is easy. Follow these steps:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Arrange the marinated drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. Use tongs to turn the drumsticks for even cooking.
4. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Tips for Perfect Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks

For the best results, keep these tips in mind:

1. Pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the marinade stick better.
2. Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking for even browning.
3. Avoid overcrowding to ensure each piece cooks evenly.

Essential Note: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll have crisp, flavorful tandoori chicken that’s sure to impress.

Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks Serving Suggestions

Serving cooked tandoori chicken drumsticks is a joy because it pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing the overall meal experience. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Naan: Serve the drumsticks with warm, soft naan bread. It’s perfect for scooping up every bit of the delicious marinade and spices.
• Rice: A side of basmati rice is a classic choice. The rice can absorb the flavors of the chicken, making each bite a flavorful delight.
• Chutney: Pair your tandoori chicken with a variety of chutneys. Mint chutney or tamarind chutney add a tangy and refreshing contrast to the rich spices of the chicken.
• Salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp and cooling element to the meal.
• Yogurt Sauce: A simple yogurt sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, mint, and a pinch of salt can be a great dip for the drumsticks.

These side dishes for tandoori chicken complement the bold flavors and make your meal complete and satisfying.

FAQs on Air Fryer Cooking Instructions

The Bottom Line

Air fryer tandoori chicken drumsticks are a delicious and easy recipe to try at home. The bold flavors and tender texture make this dish a standout.

Using an air fryer ensures a healthier version without compromising on taste. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make this at home.

I would like you to give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful Indian meal. Your kitchen will be filled with the aroma of spices and deliciousness!

More Delicious and Healthy Air Fryer Recipes

See all in at KitGiz for Air Fryer Recipes.

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