Get ready to elevate your dinner game with an irresistible fusion of flavors in the "Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken Chana Masala"! This mouthwatering dish combines succulent, marinated chicken thighs with a hearty chickpea mixture, all brought together by the aromatic spices of traditional Indian cuisine. Perfect for a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll be savoring the delightful taste of India in no time. Ready to discover how to create this culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine plain yogurt, tandoori masala, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a marinade.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes.
- Remove chicken from marinade, gently shaking off excess. Place chicken thighs in air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Air fry chicken for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is crispy and golden brown.
- In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until translucent and lightly golden.
- Add diced tomatoes and drained chickpeas to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season chickpea mixture with additional salt and tandoori masala to taste.
- Once chicken is cooked, slice into pieces and arrange over the chickpea mixture.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. This will infuse the meat with rich, aromatic flavors that are characteristic of tandoori cooking.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy skin.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
- Customize the Chickpea Mixture: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the chickpea mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. Spinach, bell peppers, or even a hint of coconut milk can make delightful additions.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your tandoori chicken chana masala with fluffy rice or warm naan bread to soak up all the delicious juices. A side of yogurt sauce can also enhance the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 135mg
