Chicken Malai Tikka is an underrated gem in Indian cuisine that often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves. While tandoori chicken and chicken tikka masala may be a household favorite, Chicken Malai Tikka offers a unique and luxurious twist that truly stands out. Chicken Malai Tikka is a flavorful Indian dish that elevates chicken breast to new heights with its creamy, rich marinade. This dish features tender pieces of chicken, marinated in a mixture of yogurt, heavy cream, fresh herbs, and a blend of aromatic spices The marinade not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the chicken remains incredibly moist and tender, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Originating from North India during the Mughal era, Chicken Malai Tikka reflects the rich culinary heritage of this region. The Mughal emperors were known for their extravagant tastes, and this dish exemplifies their love for luxurious and refined flavors. Unlike traditional tandoori chicken, which relies on a more robust spice profile, Chicken Malai Tikka uses a subtle combination of spices to achieve a delicate and sophisticated taste.
This unique preparation method offers a different way to dress up chicken breast, making it a standout choice for those looking to impress at a dinner party or simply enjoy a gourmet meal at home. Chicken Malai Tikka is often cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), which imparts a smoky flavor, but it can also be grilled or baked to achieve the same delicious results. The creamy marinade creates a golden-brown crust while keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful inside.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking to explore new flavors, Chicken Malai Tikka provides a perfect blend of elegance and taste. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a refined twist on traditional chicken dishes, offering a delicious and memorable culinary experience.
Chicken Malai Tikka
Course: MainCuisine: IndianDifficulty: EasyChicken Malai Tikka is a creamy, flavorful Indian dish featuring marinated chicken breast. To make it, combine yogurt, heavy cream, fresh herbs, and a few spices. Coat the chicken pieces in this mixture and let them marinate for a few hours. Grill, bake, or air fry the chicken until golden and tender. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
- For the Marinade
1/2 cup of whole milk yogurt
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of ginger- garlic paste (Shan brand is preferred)
3 tablespoons of chopped mint and cilantro
1 tablespoon of dried fenugreek leaves (Kasoori Methi)
1 tsp of salt
2 tsp of cumin
2 1/2 tsp of graham masala
1 1/2 tsp of course ground black pepper
1 tsp of green chilies (optional for heat)
- Meat
3 chicken breasts
Directions
- Cube chicken breasts into skewer sized pieces
- Mix all the ingredients for the marinade together in one bowl
- Add cubed chicken breasts to marinade and let sit for minimum 3 hours, but overnight is preferred for best results
- Before cooking the tikka, soak bamboo kebab skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents the skewers from burning. Using bamboo skewers is optional but I find when I do use them my chicken comes out juicer
- Air fry at 350 for 12 minutes flipping the chicken tikka halfway through until internal temperature reaches 165 °F. You can also bake or grill as long as internal temp reaches 165 °F.