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Indian·Main Course

Tailgate Sheet-Pan Tandoori Chicken

A party-friendly, sheet-pan version of the Indian classic, designed to be served in hot dog buns for the ultimate 'culinary dominance' at your next tailgate or couch-based gathering.

Prep

60m

Cook

50m

Total

110m

Serves

6

Method

  1. 01

    In a large mixing bowl, combine minced ginger, lemon juice, and tomato paste. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the acidity to neutralize enzymes in the ginger.

    Step 1
    Watch · 0:23
  2. 02

    Add the garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, cayenne, garam masala, turmeric, black pepper, salt, sugar, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt to the bowl. Whisk until the marinade is smooth and thoroughly combined.

    Step 2
    Watch · 1:20
  3. 03

    Cut chicken thighs into 3 to 4 uniform chunks. Add them to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat every 'nook and cranny'. Cover and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes.

    Step 3
    Watch · 2:08
  4. 04

    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sliced sweet potatoes with lime juice and arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined, buttered baking sheet. Season with salt and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until just starting to become tender.

    Step 4
    Watch · 3:05
  5. 05

    Remove the pan from the oven and increase heat to 500°F (260°C). Place the marinated chicken pieces on top of the sweet potatoes. Arrange sliced onions and peppers in the gaps around the chicken, ensuring the chicken is not covered. Drizzle the chicken generously with melted butter.

    Step 5
    Watch · 3:46
  6. 06

    Roast in the 500°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and well-browned. Let rest for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped cilantro.

    Step 6
    Watch · 5:05
  7. 07

    Serve the chicken and vegetables as-is, or for the 'tailgate' experience, stuff the chicken and potatoes into hot dog buns topped with a simple garlic-lemon yogurt sauce.

    Step 7
    Watch · 6:42

From Chef John

  • “As you may know, chicken thighs are famous for two things: their nooks and their crannies.”
  • “You are, after all, the Peter Lorre of this tailgate tandoori.”
  • “Imagine those feelings of superiority and culinary dominance you're going to feel in the parking lot.”