Some of my best summer dinners are the ones where East meets West—and this Tandoori Chicken Pizza on Naan with Raita Drizzle is the perfect example.
It combines bold Indian flavors with the laid-back vibe of backyard pizza night. Juicy tandoori-spiced chicken, melted cheese, and crisp veggies come together on fluffy naan bread, all topped with a creamy cucumber-mint raita that cools every bite.
Using boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a mixture of plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and spices like ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and garam masala, this dish is both vibrant and packed with flavor.
The result is a tender, juicy chicken topping that pairs perfectly with the crispy naan base.
This recipe takes the traditional elements of Indian cuisine and combines them with classic pizza toppings.
Your taste buds will be treated to a medley of flavors, from the savory chicken to the freshness of diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and a refreshing drizzle of raita made from grated cucumber, fresh mint, and more lemon juice.
Here’s Why You’ll Love My Tandoori Chicken Pizza on Naan with Raita Drizzle Recipe
This recipe is bold, colorful, and full of flavor. You get the rich spices of tandoori chicken, melty mozzarella, and the cooling, herby contrast of raita.
It’s fun to grill or bake, easy to customize, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknights or summer gatherings.
An Exquisite Fusion of Indian and Italian Flavors
The Tandoori Chicken Pizza on naan brings an exciting twist to traditional pizza, combining the bold spices of Indian cuisine with familiar Italian elements.
Using boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a blend of plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and aromatic spices such as ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and garam masala, this dish promises a burst of flavor in every bite.
This vibrant pizza features a crispy naan bread base, which is the perfect foundation for the juicy, marinated chicken.
Topped with shredded mozzarella cheese, diced tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions, the combination of textures and tastes creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
The dish is completed with a refreshing drizzle of raita, made from grated cucumber and fresh mint, that adds a cooling contrast to the warmth of the spices.
The Perfect Base: Naan Bread
Naan bread serves as the ideal canvas for this creative pizza. Its soft yet crispy texture provides just the right amount of support for the toppings, ensuring each slice holds together beautifully.
Preheated in the oven, the naan becomes crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, elevating the overall pizza experience.
Using naan also introduces an authentic element to this fusion dish, offering a delightful combination of flavors that pairs well with the marinated chicken.
The naan’s ability to absorb the tikka masala sauce complements the entire assembly, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile even further.
The topping choices for this Tandoori Chicken Pizza are thoughtfully curated to create a balance of flavors and textures.
Starting with a layer of tikka masala sauce spread over the naan, the base is then adorned with shredded mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully when baked, contributing a rich, creamy layer.
Following the cheese, diced tomatoes provide a fresh and juicy contrast, while thinly sliced red onions add a bit of sharpness.
The star of the dish, the grilled marinated chicken, is chopped into bite-sized pieces and generously scattered across the pizza.
Each bite promises a medley of flavors that keeps you returning for more.
The Refreshing Raita Drizzle
No pizza is complete without a finishing touch, and the raita drizzle is what sets this dish apart.
This cooling condiment is made from grated cucumber and fresh mint, mixed with additional lemon juice for a zesty kick.
The raita not only enhances the flavors but also provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the chicken.
Drizzling the raita over the hot pizza just before serving ensures that its creamy texture beautifully complements the crispy naan and bold toppings, making each bite a harmonious blend of spice and coolness.
Garnished with chopped cilantro, this pizza not only pleases the palate but also the eyes.
The presentation of the Tandoori Chicken Pizza is as appealing as its taste. With its vibrant colors and rustic charm, this dish is a feast for the senses.
The golden-brown naan, topped with melted cheese, fresh tomatoes, and the bright green of cilantro, creates a striking visual impact that enhances the dining experience.
Set against a backdrop of a rustic table adorned with fresh herbs and additional ingredients like naan, the scene invites you to indulge in this unique fusion of flavors.
The combination of visual appeal and delicious taste makes this pizza perfect for gatherings, impressing guests with both its creativity and flavor.
This Tandoori Chicken Pizza serves two and provides a satisfying meal without compromising on nutrition. Each serving contains approximately 480 calories, with protein-rich boneless skinless chicken thighs contributing 36 grams of protein per serving.
The use of plain Greek yogurt in the marinade adds beneficial probiotics and creamy texture, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.
For a complete meal, consider pairing this pizza with a side salad or additional raita for dipping.
The balance of fresh ingredients and hearty flavors ensures that everyone at the table leaves satisfied, making this fusion pizza a delightful addition to any dinner menu.
What To Serve With Tandoori Chicken Pizza on Naan with Raita Drizzle
Pair it with mango chutney, a fresh cucumber salad, or grilled corn with Indian spices. Add a side of crispy papadums or masala fries for fun.
For drinks, serve with mango lassi, iced chai, or a cold beer to balance the spice.
Tips for the Best Tandoori Chicken Pizza on Naan with Raita Drizzle
- Use naan for an easy, tender crust with great flavor.
. - Marinate the chicken ahead of time to let those tandoori spices soak in.
. - Grill the pizza for smoky flavor, or bake it for convenience.
. - Don’t skip the raita—it’s the cooling contrast that brings everything together!
Tandoori Chicken Pizza on Naan with Raita Drizzle
Course: MainCuisine: Indian-Inspired FusionDifficulty: Easy to ModerateEasy to Moderate2-4
servings25
minutes15
minutes480
kcal
The Tandoori Chicken Pizza is a delightful blend of spices and textures. The naan provides a perfect base that is soft yet crispy, while the spicy chicken is balanced with fresh toppings and a creamy raita drizzle that cools the palate.
Ingredients
- For the Tandoori Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
One-half cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
One-half teaspoon turmeric
One-half teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon grated garlic
1 teaspoon grated ginger
Salt to taste
- For the Pizza
2 pieces of naan bread
One-half cup of pizza or tikka masala sauce
One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
One-fourth cup diced tomatoes
One-fourth cup of thinly sliced red onions
Fresh cilantro for garnish
- For the Raita Drizzle
One-third cup plain yogurt
One-fourth cup grated cucumber (squeezed dry)
One tablespoon chopped fresh mint
One tablespoon of lemon juice
Salt to taste
Water to thin, if needed
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and all spices. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Cook the Chicken
- Grill or pan-sear the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, until fully cooked and lightly charred. Rest, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Raita
- In a small bowl, mix yogurt, cucumber, mint, lemon juice, and salt. Add a splash of water if you want a drizzleable consistency. Chill until ready to use.
- Assemble the Pizza
- Preheat grill or oven to 425°F. Spread each naan with sauce, top with mozzarella, chicken, onions, and tomatoes.
- Cook the Pizza
- Grill for 5–7 minutes (lid closed) or bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and edges are crisp.
- Drizzle and Serve
- Remove pizzas, drizzle generously with raita, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Slice and serve hot!
Notes
- You can use store-bought tandoori spice mix instead of individual spices.
- Paneer or tofu can be substituted for a vegetarian version.
- For extra flavor, brush naan with garlic butter before topping!
Storage & Warming
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
. - Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes for best results.
. - Store raita separately and drizzle after reheating.
