If you love bold, aromatic flavors with a spicy kick, this Easy Keto Tandoori Chicken is for you! This dish is juicy, smoky, and perfectly spiced, making it a fantastic addition to your low-carb or keto-friendly meal plan. The best part? It’s marinated twice to infuse deep flavors into every bite, just like authentic Indian tandoori chicken.
🔥 Grill it, bake it, or air-fry it—this recipe is simple, versatile, and bursting with delicious smoky heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 100% Keto-Friendly & Low-Carb – No sugar, no unnecessary carbs—just clean ingredients!
- Deep & Rich Flavor – The double marinade ensures every bite is spicy, tangy, and packed with bold Indian flavors.
- Perfectly Juicy & Tender – Greek yogurt and avocado oil keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Versatile Cooking Methods – Grill it, bake it, or air-fry it for an easy weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions – Complete Your Keto Meal!
🥒 With a Cooling Cucumber Yogurt Sauce – Serve with a simple raita made from Greek yogurt, cucumbers, and mint to balance the heat.
🥦 Over a Bed of Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that soaks up all the delicious juices.
🥗 With a Crisp Keto Side Salad – Try a fresh cabbage slaw or a simple cucumber-onion salad.
🥑 With Avocado & Lime – The creamy avocado adds healthy fats, while a squeeze of lime enhances the flavors.
Possible Variations
🔥 Extra Spicy – Add extra chili powder or cayenne for more heat!
🍗 Bone-In Chicken – You can use drumsticks or bone-in thighs, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.
🥩 Use a Different Protein – Swap chicken for lamb, shrimp, or even paneer for a vegetarian option.
🍋 Extra Tangy – Increase the lemon juice or add a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavors.
🌿 Herb Boost – Mix in fresh mint or cilantro into the marinade for a fresh twist.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Keto Tandoori Chicken is flavor-packed, juicy, and perfect for grilling season or cozy nights in. Whether you enjoy it with cauliflower rice, a side of cooling yogurt sauce, or a fresh salad, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
What’s your favorite way to serve tandoori chicken? Let me know in the comments below! 😊🔥

Easy Keto Tandoori Chicken – A Flavor-Packed Low-Carb Delight
Description
Easy Keto Tandoori Chicken is flavor-packed, juicy, and perfect for grilling season or cozy nights in. Whether you enjoy it with cauliflower rice, a side of cooling yogurt sauce, or a fresh salad, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
Ingredients
First Marinade
Second Marinade
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
First Marinade
- In a large bowl, mix together all the first marinade ingredients.
- Add the chicken thighs, tossing them well to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the second marinade.
-
Second Marinade
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all the second marinade ingredients.
- Take the chicken out of the fridge and pour the second marinade over it. Mix thoroughly.
- For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
-
Grill, Bake, or Air-Fry
- Grill Method: Preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C). Grill the chicken on both sides for 15-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a wire rack for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
-
Garnish & Serve
- Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and scallions.
Note
🔥 Tips for the Best Tandoori Chicken
✅ Marinate Overnight for Maximum Flavor – While a 2-hour marinade is good, letting the chicken sit overnight will make it even more flavorful and tender.
✅ Use Bone-In Chicken for Juicier Results – Boneless thighs work well, but bone-in thighs or drumsticks stay extra juicy and hold up better to grilling.
✅ Get That Authentic Smoky Flavor – If you want that restaurant-style smoky taste, try the dhungar method:
- Heat a small piece of charcoal until it’s red-hot.
- Place the hot charcoal in a small metal bowl inside your marinated chicken dish.
- Drizzle a few drops of ghee over the charcoal and cover the dish immediately.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to infuse a rich, smoky aroma.
✅ Don’t Skip the Greek Yogurt! – The acidic nature of Greek yogurt breaks down proteins, making the chicken extra tender and juicy.
✅ For Extra Crispiness, Air Fry It! – Air frying at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes gives you crispy edges and juicy inside—the best of both worlds!
✅ Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Cooking – Chicken is ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can make it dry.
✅ Pair It with a Cooling Sauce – Serve with a simple cucumber yogurt sauce (Greek yogurt + grated cucumber + mint) to balance the spice.
✅ Make It Meal-Prep Friendly – Marinate a batch in advance and freeze in Ziploc bags. Just thaw and cook when ready for a quick, flavorful meal.