These scrumptious Tandoori Chicken Wings combine the rich, smoky flavors of traditional Indian tandoori cooking with the ease and convenience of your oven or air fryer. Marinated in a zesty yogurt and spice blend, these wings will have your taste buds dancing in delight. Perfect for a cozy night in or a lively gathering with friends, these wings deliver an explosion of flavor with every bite!
Budget Information
This Tandoori Chicken Wings recipe can be made on a budget! Here’s the breakdown:
Total Recipe Cost: $12.00
Cost per Serving (assuming 4 servings): $3.00
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe brings the authentic taste of India right to your home without the need for fancy cooking equipment. The yogurt in the marinade not only tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful, but also helps the spices cling to the wings for a satisfying burst of heat. Plus, the contrasting smoky aroma from the cooking process is so inviting! You won’t just be feeding your hunger; you’ll be creating an experience that whisks you straight to the streets of India, all while having fun cooking them in your own kitchen. Isn’t that what we all strive for when we cook?
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Gather these tasty ingredients for a finger-licking experience:
- 2 pounds chicken wings – $8.00 (You can substitute with drumsticks if preferred)
- 1 cup plain yogurt – $1.00 (Greek yogurt works beautifully too!)
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala (store-bought or homemade) – $0.70
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste – $0.30
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste – $0.30
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – $0.50 (lime juice is a great alternative)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – $0.10
- Salt to taste – $0.01
- Chopped cilantro for garnish – $0.10
Step-by-step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start off by prepping your chicken wings. Give them a good rinse under cold water and use paper towels to pat them dry. This helps the marinade cling better and ensures your wings get that crisp texture you’ll love. Once that’s done, place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Now, let’s whip up that glorious marinade! In a separate bowl, combine the plain yogurt, tandoori masala, garlic paste, ginger paste, lemon juice, vegetable oil, and a sprinkle of salt. Whisk it all together until smooth—imagine a velvety sauce that’s about to transform your chicken wings into a superstar of flavor!
Step 3: Pour the marinade over your chicken wings and get your hands in there! Massage the marinade into every nook and cranny of the wings. Make sure they’re well-coated—this is where the magic happens! Once they’re covered, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the wings to a resealable bag. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but for best results, aim for 4 hours or even overnight. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips from the wings while baking. If you’re cooking in an air fryer, just give the basket a light spray of oil. Now, place the marinated wings onto the lined baking sheet in a single layer—sneak a little taste of that scrumptious marinade while you’re at it! They will cook evenly this way.
Step 5: Bake the wings in the oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through to get that golden-brown perfection. If you’re using an air fryer, cook for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even cooking. You want those wings to be sizzling and slightly charred, with a sexy crackle on the outside. Oh, the aroma filling your kitchen will be nothing short of divine!
Step 6: Once the wings are cooked, take them out and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro for an extra pop of freshness and serve them up hot with your favorite dipping sauce—think cooling yogurt sauce or spicy chutney. Dig in and enjoy every bite of these lip-smacking Tandoori Chicken Wings!
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Total Fats: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you’ve somehow got leftovers (though I doubt it!), store the cooled wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the air fryer for a quick reheat, just be mindful that they might crisp up even more—but hey, who’s complaining about that?
Serving Suggestions
These Tandoori Chicken Wings are perfect for game days or movie nights! Serve them alongside refreshing cucumber raita for a cooling effect against the spices, or pair them with spicy mango chutney for an added kick. They also make a great addition to a platter of assorted appetizers for parties. You can never go wrong with a little dip and a crunch!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
If you want to get creative, feel free to experiment with your choice of spices in the marinade! Cumin, coriander, or even some chili flakes can be excellent additions for those who like it hot. And remember, marinating longer always pays off in the flavor department. So why not whip these wings up the night before your gathering and let the flavors intensify overnight? Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious outcome!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead? Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts will work well too, just adjust the cooking time as they may get done faster.
What if I can’t find tandoori masala? No worries! You can make your own by mixing equal parts of garam masala, paprika, cumin, and turmeric. It’s a great way to customize the flavors to your liking.
Can I grill these wings? Yes! Grilling adds a delightful smoky flavor. Just make sure to preheat the grill and cook them over medium heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked through.
How spicy are these wings? The spice level is adjustable! Tandoori masala has a mild heat, but if you prefer it spicier, add some cayenne or use a hot tandoori masala blend.
What’s the best way to serve these wings? Serve them hot with assorted dips on the side like mint chutney or ranch dressing. Fresh veggies and pita bread also make a wonderful accompaniment!
