Spicy Tandoori Wings
Spicy Tandoori Wings are a flavorful and delicious appetizer inspired by Indian Tandoori cuisine. These chicken wings are marinated in a blend of aromatic spices and yogurt, then baked or grilled to perfection. They are tender, juicy, and packed with a fiery kick of spice that will leave your taste buds tingling.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 pounds chicken wings, tips removed and drumettes and flats separated
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)
- 3 tablespoons tandoori masala spice mix
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your desired level of spiciness)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, tandoori masala spice mix, lemon juice, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, garlic powder, ginger powder, chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
Add the chicken wings to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or ideally overnight) to allow the flavors to infuse.
Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
If using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If using the oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Remove the marinated wings from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
Arrange the chicken wings on the grill or baking sheet in a single layer.
Grill or bake the wings for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate.
Garnish the Spicy Tandoori Wings with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
TIPS
For an authentic Tandoori flavor, you can also add a pinch of saffron threads soaked in warm milk to the marinade.
If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder in the marinade.
The longer the chicken wings marinate, the more flavorful they will be. Aim for at least 2-4 hours of marinating time, but overnight marination is recommended for the best results.
To achieve a crispy texture, you can broil the wings for the last 1-2 minutes after grilling or baking.
Serve the Spicy Tandoori Wings with cooling cucumber raita or mint chutney to balance the heat.
Customize the spice level to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the amount of chili powder and other spices.
If you don’t have tandoori masala spice mix on hand, you can make your own by combining ground coriander, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and garam masala.
Experiment with different side dishes, such as naan bread, basmati rice, or a fresh green salad, to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Ensure the chicken wings are thoroughly cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Leftover wings can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispness.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 calories per serving
- Protein: Around 20-25 grams per serving
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5 grams per serving
- Fat: About 20-25 grams per serving
