Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken
Ready in about 40 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Yoghurt and spice marinated chicken with the smoky char of a tandoor, made easy in the air fryer. The high heat crisps the edges while keeping the meat succulent, giving you vibrant, restaurant-style tandoori at home.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks, skin removed and slashed
- 200 g natural yoghurt
- 2 tbsp tandoori masala
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chilli powder
- Salt to taste
Method
- 1Mix the yoghurt, tandoori masala, lemon, garlic, ginger, cumin, chilli and salt.
- 2Coat the drumsticks and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
- 4Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer and cook for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway.
- 5Check the thickest part reaches 74°C (165°F).
- 6Rest briefly and serve with lemon wedges and onion.
Tips for the best results
- Slashing the meat helps the marinade penetrate for deeper flavour.
- A longer marinade time gives the most tender, flavourful result.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer tandoori chicken steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the flip halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Trusting the clock instead of a probe - Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken is ready at 74°C / 165°F in the thickest part.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer tandoori chicken?
A typical starting point is 190°C / 375°F for 18-22 min, flip halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
How do I know air fryer tandoori chicken is cooked through?
Use a probe in the thickest part. Air Fryer Tandoori Chicken should reach 74°C / 165°F. Rest a few minutes before slicing so juices settle.
How many people does air fryer tandoori chicken serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.