Grilled Tandoori Chicken is a bold, flavor-packed twist on traditional grilled chicken. Marinated in Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and a medley of warm Indian spices like garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and coriander, this dish delivers juicy, aromatic results every time. Easy to prepare and quick to grill, it’s perfect for summer dinners, BBQs, or meal prep, and pairs beautifully with rice or naan. An optional honey-yogurt dipping sauce adds a sweet and tangy finish.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- For the Chicken & Marinade
½ cup (5 oz) Greek yogurt
2–3 tablespoons olive oil
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 tablespoon paprika (smoked preferred)
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 to 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders - Optional Dipping Sauce
⅔ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional garnish)
Directions
Marinate the Chicken
In a zip-top bag or bowl, combine all marinade ingredients and mix well. Add the chicken and coat evenly.
Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Remove chicken from marinade and discard the excess.
Grill for 4–5 minutes per side (8–10 minutes total), or until internal temp reaches 165°F.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Make the Dipping Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk all sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust sweetness and seasoning to taste.
Serve
Garnish chicken with chopped cilantro and serve with the dipping sauce and sides like rice or grilled veggies.
Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 511
Protein: 54g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Sodium: 1269mg
Cholesterol: 128mg
Sugar: 11g
Fiber: 2g
The Power Of The Marinade
The heart of this recipe is its marinade. A thick, rich blend of Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and spices forms a paste that clings to the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor. Unlike oil-based marinades, this yogurt-based version breaks down the muscle fibers in the meat gently, which enhances tenderness without making the chicken mushy. The spices add color, aroma, and complexity—turmeric lends a golden hue, paprika brings a smoky edge, and garam masala provides that unmistakable Indian warmth. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense and balanced the flavors become.
Ideal For The Grill
Grilling adds an additional layer of smokiness and char that enhances the spiced profile of tandoori chicken beautifully. While the traditional Indian version is cooked in a tandoor clay oven, this adaptation works just as well on a home grill. Medium-high heat is ideal for searing the chicken quickly and sealing in the juices. The marinade caramelizes slightly on the outside, creating a lightly crisp crust that contrasts with the tender meat inside. You don’t need any special equipment or techniques to get great results—just a hot grill and a few minutes of attention.
A Versatile Dish For Any Occasion
Grilled tandoori chicken is incredibly versatile. It’s ideal for summer dinners, casual gatherings, BBQs, or meal prep. Serve it fresh off the grill with rice, naan, or roasted vegetables, or slice it and use it for wraps, grain bowls, or salads. It works equally well as a main course or a protein-packed addition to a larger spread. The vivid red-orange color and aromatic scent also make it a showstopper at any dinner table or buffet. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, which makes it perfect for entertaining.
Bold, Balanced Flavors In Every Bite
What sets this dish apart is its balance of flavors. There’s the tang from the yogurt and lemon juice, the earthiness from cumin and coriander, and the sweet-smoky backdrop of paprika. A pinch of cayenne adds optional heat for those who like a spicy finish. The spices aren’t overpowering but work together to create a rich, layered experience. The optional dipping sauce—made with Greek yogurt, honey, vinegar, and olive oil—adds a cooling, tangy counterpoint that complements the spices perfectly. Drizzle it over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
Nutritious And Satisfying
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrition. Each serving delivers a hearty 54 grams of protein, which supports muscle repair and keeps you full longer. The use of Greek yogurt boosts calcium and probiotics, while the spices offer natural anti-inflammatory benefits. With about 511 calories per serving, this dish is filling but not overly indulgent, especially when paired with light sides like grilled vegetables or salad. It fits well into high-protein, low-carb, and Mediterranean-style eating patterns, and it’s naturally gluten-free.
Easy To Customize For Any Diet
Grilled tandoori chicken is easy to adapt for different dietary needs. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt in the marinade and the dipping sauce. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, coconut yogurt makes a good substitute, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. You can also adjust the spice level to taste by dialing back the cayenne or boosting the paprika. For vegetarians or those looking to cut back on meat, the same marinade works beautifully on tofu, paneer, or cauliflower steaks.
Ideal For Meal Prep And Leftovers
This dish keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it a smart choice for meal prep. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently in the microwave or oven. It also tastes great cold, making it an excellent protein option for lunchboxes or picnic spreads. Leftovers can be sliced and added to flatbreads, wraps, or grain bowls. The dipping sauce also keeps well and can be used as a salad dressing or sandwich spread, so nothing goes to waste.
Presentation And Serving Suggestions
The presentation of grilled tandoori chicken is almost as impressive as its flavor. The vibrant color makes it stand out on any plate, especially when garnished with chopped cilantro and served alongside a small bowl of yogurt sauce. For a full meal, try pairing it with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, and a fresh cucumber salad. You can also serve it with grilled corn, roasted potatoes, or a dollop of chutney for added variety. If you’re hosting a gathering, arrange the chicken pieces on a platter with lime wedges and a drizzle of sauce for a stunning centerpiece.
Great For Entertaining
This recipe is a go-to option when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The marinade can be prepared the night before, and the chicken cooks quickly once it hits the grill. The bold flavors and colorful appearance make it feel festive and special, even though it’s easy to execute. Because it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free, it accommodates a variety of dietary preferences, making it a safe and crowd-pleasing choice for group dinners or celebrations.
Conclusion
Grilled tandoori chicken is a bold, aromatic dish that brings together the best of Indian spices and the irresistible flavor of grilled meat. It’s simple to prepare, deeply satisfying, and incredibly versatile, making it a must-have recipe for summer cooking and beyond. Whether you’re looking to elevate your backyard barbecue, prep healthy lunches for the week, or impress guests with minimal effort, this dish delivers on all fronts. From its juicy texture to its layered spice profile and optional sweet-and-tangy dipping sauce, every element of this meal is designed to please. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it earns a regular spot on the grill.