Tangdi Kebabs - Juicy Chicken Drumstick Kebabs
These juicy Tangdi kebabs are perfect straight from the oven or cooked over the barbecue.
Tangdi kebabs are marinated chicken drumsticks grilled to perfection - crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. They're perfect for parties, barbecues, or a special weekend dinner!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 6-8 chicken drumsticks, skin off (Tangdi)
- 2 tsp ginger and garlic paste
- 2 tbsp thick yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tsp ground turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
Method
1. Make deep cuts on each drumstick.
2. Mix ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, lemon juice, red chilli powder, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, coriander and salt in a bowl.
3. Coat the drumsticks with the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your barbecue grill.
5. Arrange the drumsticks on a greased baking tray or foil-lined tray. Drizzle with oil and cook for 30-35 mins in the oven, or grill on the barbecue for 15-20 mins, turning occasionally.
Serve hot with lemon wedges. 🍋
Tips for Perfect Tangdi Kebabs
✓ Make deep cuts - allows the marinade to penetrate deep into the meat
✓ Marinate for at least 2 hours - overnight is even better!
✓ Remove the skin - helps the marinade absorb better
✓ Use thick yogurt - makes the marinade stick to the chicken
✓ Turn occasionally - ensures even cooking and charring
✓ Don't overcook - keeps the chicken juicy inside
Cooking Methods
Oven Method:
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Cook for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through. For extra char, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Barbecue Method:
Grill over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes for even charring.
Air Fryer Method:
Cook at 200°C for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
🍋 Fresh lemon wedges (essential!)
🥒 Mint chutney or raita
🧅 Sliced onions and green chutney
🥗 Fresh salad
🫓 Warm naan or roti
🍚 Pulao rice
What Makes Tangdi Kebabs Special?
"Tangdi" means drumstick in Hindi. These kebabs are a popular street food and restaurant favourite in India. The deep cuts in the meat allow the marinade to penetrate, creating incredibly flavourful, juicy chicken with a beautiful char on the outside.
Perfect for Parties & Barbecues
Tangdi kebabs are perfect party food - they look impressive, taste amazing, and are easy to eat with your hands! They're also great for barbecues, picnics, or as a starter for an Indian feast.
Make Ahead Tips
Marinate ahead: Marinate the drumsticks up to 24 hours in advance for even deeper flavour
Freeze: Marinated drumsticks can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before cooking
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C for 10 minutes to crisp up again
Prep time: 10 minutes | Marination time: 2 hours (or overnight) | Cook time: 30-35 minutes | Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes | Spice level: Medium 🌶️🌶️