Easy Tandoori Chicken in the Air Fryer – Healthy, Flavorful, and Ready in Minutes

Looking for a healthy, flavorful chicken recipe with minimal prep and maximum flavor? This Tandoori Chicken recipe made in the air fryer (aka "Nina") is the perfect high-protein, low-fat meal option. With a simple marinade and quick cooking time, it’s ideal for meal prep or weeknight dinners.

Made with fat-free yogurt, tandoori spice mix, and a splash of lemon juice, this dish delivers that signature tandoori flavor—without the need for a tandoor oven!

Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp fat-free natural yogurt

  • 1 tbsp tandoori spice mix

  • A dash of lemon juice

  • 2 chicken breasts, cubed

Marinade Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together:

    • Fat-free yogurt

    • Tandoori spice mix

    • Lemon juice

  2. Add the cubed chicken breasts and coat thoroughly in the marinade.

  3. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

    Tip: Marinating overnight helps tenderize the chicken and intensify the tandoori flavor.

Air Fryer Cooking Method (Using a Ninja Air Fryer)

  1. Preheat your Ninja air fryer (or similar model) to 160°C (320°F).

  2. Roast for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

  3. Once roasting is complete, switch to the Max Crisp (MC) setting:

    • Cook for an additional 4 minutes, shaking once halfway through.

  4. Serve hot, optionally with a side of basmati rice, naan, or a crisp salad.

Why This Tandoori Chicken Recipe Works

  • Healthy: Low in fat, high in protein, and packed with flavor.

  • Simple Ingredients: Only four ingredients, all easy to find.

  • No Tandoor Needed: The air fryer mimics that charred finish beautifully.

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week.

This air fryer tandoori chicken is proof that bold flavor doesn’t need a long ingredient list or complicated steps. Just marinate, air fry, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

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