Marinated tandoori leg meat is a flavorful Indian dish where chicken leg quarters, thighs, or drumsticks are marinated in a spiced yogurt blend before being cooked. This process tenderizes the meat, giving it a rich, smoky flavor and a vibrant red-orange color. It is a classic crowd-pleaser and is available fresh or frozen from many retailers. 

• Rich, smoky flavor: The unique taste comes from the blend of yogurt, spices, and the cooking process, which typically involves high heat for a charred finish.
• Tender and juicy: The yogurt in the marinade breaks down the meat’s proteins, resulting in a tender and succulent texture.
• Juicy dark meat: The leg and thigh meat is dark meat, known for being flavorful and retaining moisture, which is ideal for this type of cooking.
• Spiced marinade: The marinade is the star of the dish, featuring a creamy, intensely spiced blend of flavors.
• Crispy charred skin (optional): The skin is often removed, but can be kept on and crisped for added texture. 

• Yogurt: Plain or Greek-style yogurt acts as a thick base that clings to the meat, locking in moisture and flavor.
• Ginger and garlic paste: Essential for a pungent, deep flavor.
• Spice blend: A mixture of ground spices is key, typically including cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and red chili powder.
• Lemon juice: Provides acidity to help tenderize the chicken and adds a bright, zesty note.
• Oil: Helps keep the meat moist and enriches the marinade.
• Kashmiri red chili powder: Crucial for a vibrant red color without adding too much heat. 

• Marination: For best results, the chicken is marinated for an extended period, ideally 6 to 12 hours or overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
• Cooking methods: While traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), it can be easily prepared at home using various methods:
  • Oven baking: High heat helps replicate the effect of a traditional tandoor, giving the meat a charred exterior and juicy interior.
  • Grilling or barbecuing: Cooking on a grill provides a smoky flavor and a good char.
  • Air frying: A convenient and quick method for achieving a similar texture. 

• With sides: Serve it with fragrant basmati rice, soft naan bread, or a refreshing cucumber and mint raita.