Olivia Carter
Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish known for its vibrant red color and rich flavors. Traditionally, it is cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven, which gives it a distinct smoky taste. However, with the rise in popularity of air fryers, many people are now wondering how to cook tandoori chicken in this convenient kitchen appliance.
The good news is that you can achieve great results cooking tandoori chicken in an air fryer, and the cooking time is significantly shorter compared to using a traditional tandoor. With an air fryer, you can enjoy tender and juicy tandoori chicken with that classic charred exterior right in your own kitchen.
So, how long does it take to cook tandoori chicken in an air fryer? The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the power of your air fryer. As a general rule, it takes about 18-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to cook tandoori chicken in an air fryer. However, it is important to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
Before cooking the tandoori chicken, it is recommended to marinate it for at least 2 hours or overnight. The marinade typically consists of yogurt, spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder, as well as ginger and garlic. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
Once marinated, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and place the chicken pieces in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking. To check if the chicken is done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Preparation and Marinating
Before you can cook your tandoori chicken in the air fryer, it’s important to properly prepare and marinate the chicken to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.
Ingredients:
To marinate the chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 kg of chicken pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Follow these steps to properly marinate your chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala, ginger paste and garlic paste. Mix well.
- Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, turmeric powder, and salt to the yogurt mixture. Stir until all the spices are well incorporated.
- Place the chicken pieces in the marinade and coat them thoroughly with the yogurt and spice mixture. Make sure all the chicken pieces are evenly covered.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and tenderize it.
Once the chicken is properly marinated, you’re ready to cook it in the air fryer. Follow the cooking instructions to achieve a delicious and flavorful tandoori chicken right at home.
Cooking Temperature and Time
When cooking tandoori chicken in an air fryer, it’s important to get the temperature and time just right to ensure that the chicken is cooked through and has a delicious flavor. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Temperature
The recommended cooking temperature for tandoori chicken in an air fryer is 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist and tender on the inside.
Time
The cooking time for tandoori chicken in an air fryer can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general guideline:
- For boneless chicken breasts or chicken tenders, cook for approximately 12-15 minutes.
- For bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, cook for approximately 15-20 minutes.
It’s important to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remember that cooking times can vary between different air fryer models, so it’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Additionally, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time can help to ensure even cooking and browning.
By following these temperature and time guidelines, you can achieve perfectly cooked tandoori chicken in your air fryer every time! Enjoy the crispy, flavorful results.
Checking for Doneness
To ensure that your tandoori chicken is cooked to perfection in the air fryer, it’s important to check for doneness. Here are a few ways to determine if your chicken is cooked through:
- Temperature: Using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for the chicken to be fully cooked.
- Color: The chicken should have a golden brown color on the outside, indicating that it has been cooked thoroughly.
- Juices: When you cut into the chicken, the juices should run clear. If the juices are pink or bloody, the chicken needs more time to cook.
It’s important not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and lose its tenderness. If you find that your chicken is not fully cooked, simply return it to the air fryer and cook for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired temperature and doneness.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your tandoori chicken is cooked to perfection in the air fryer, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. Here are a few tips on serving and enjoying your tandoori chicken:
Serving Suggestions
- Traditionally, tandoori chicken is served with naan bread or roti. These Indian breads complement the flavors of the chicken and are perfect for scooping up the marinade and sauces.
- For a healthier option, you can serve the tandoori chicken with a side of steamed basmati rice or quinoa.
- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped coriander (cilantro) leaves and a sprinkle of chaat masala for additional flavor and color.
Sauces and Dips
Tandoori chicken pairs well with various sauces and dips. Here are a few options to consider:
- Mint chutney: This refreshing and tangy dip made with fresh mint, coriander (cilantro), yogurt, and spices is a classic accompaniment to tandoori dishes.
- Tamarind chutney: Sweet and tangy, this sauce made from tamarind pulp, jaggery (or sugar), and spices adds a burst of flavor to your tandoori chicken.
- Yogurt sauce: A simple yogurt sauce with a squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and some freshly chopped mint or coriander (cilantro) is a quick and easy dip for your tandoori chicken.
Remember to let the tandoori chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the juices to distribute evenly, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Enjoy your homemade tandoori chicken with your favorite sides and sauces!
Questions and Answers
How long does it take to cook tandoori chicken in an air fryer?
Tandoori chicken typically takes around 12-15 minutes to cook in an air fryer.
What temperature should I set my air fryer to when cooking tandoori chicken?
The recommended temperature for cooking tandoori chicken in an air fryer is 400°F (200°C).
Can I marinate the chicken before cooking it in the air fryer?
Yes, marinating the chicken before cooking it in the air fryer will enhance the flavor. It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best results.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking tandoori chicken?
Yes, preheating the air fryer before cooking tandoori chicken is important to ensure even and thorough cooking. Preheat the air fryer at the recommended temperature for 3-5 minutes prior to adding the chicken.
Can I use boneless chicken for making tandoori chicken in an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken pieces such as chicken breasts or chicken thighs for making tandoori chicken in an air fryer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken tends to cook faster than bone-in chicken.
