Chile-and-Yogurt-Marinated Grilled Chicken

Succulent chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of chiles, yogurt, and aromatic Indian spices, then grilled to charred perfection. This recipe combines traditional Indian flavors like garam masala, fenugreek, and amchoor with grilling techniques for a delicious fusion dish.

4 servings
3 hr 50 min

Ingredients

  • 7 whole dried Kashmiri or guajillo chiles
  • 1 piece ginger
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup plain whole-milk yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons mustard oil
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • teaspoons dried mango powder
  • teaspoons crushed dried fenugreek leaves
  • teaspoons garam masala
  • teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
  • to taste Kosher salt

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Place chiles in a medium bowl and pour in hot water to cover. Let sit until chiles are very soft, about 30 minutes; drain. Blend chiles, ginger, garlic, yogurt, cilantro stems, lime juice, mustard oil (if using), coriander, paprika, mango powder (if using), fenugreek leaves, garam masala, cumin, and 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil in a blender until smooth. Transfer marinade to a large resealable plastic bag. Season chicken generously with salt and add to marinade. Seal bag and turn to coat chicken. Chill at least 2 hours.

    150 min

  2. 2.

    Let chicken sit at room temperature 1 hour before grilling.

    60 min

  3. 3.

    Prepare a grill for medium heat; oil grate. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip back into bag, and grill, turning every minute or so, until beginning to char in spots, 8-10 minutes total. Transfer to a platter and let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

    20 min

  4. 4.

    Chicken can be marinated 12 hours ahead. Keep chilled.