Greek Yogurt Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks
Tender, smoky drumsticks marinated in a vibrant Greek yogurt tandoori sauce, bursting with flavor and color.
Total: 55 minPrep: 20 minCook: 35 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Steps
- 1 In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, tomato paste, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, paprika, turmeric, cayenne, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 2 Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
- 3 Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- 4 Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil.
- 5 Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place on the grill.
- 6 Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- 7 Transfer the drumsticks to a serving platter.
- 8 Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Equipment
- grill
- medium bowl
- whisk
Variations
- Substitute chicken thighs for drumsticks for a juicier option.
- Add bell peppers and onions to the grill for a veggie accompaniment.
Substitutions
- If garam masala isn't available, use a mix of coriander, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper.
Pairings
- Basmati rice
- Cucumber raita
- Warm naan bread
Nutrition
Calories:
320 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
4g carbohydrates
Protein:
30g protein
Fiber:
0g fiber
Sugar:
2g sugar
Sodium:
500mg sodium
Tips
- For extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.
- If grilling isn't an option, these drumsticks can also be baked in a preheated 400°F oven for 35-40 minutes.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with basmati rice and a side of cucumber raita.
- Pair with warm naan bread for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use buttermilk instead of Greek yogurt?
Absolutely, buttermilk will add tang but won't provide the same richness.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe is mild to medium; adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference.