If you’re craving a taste of the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine, then Chicken Malai Tikka might just be the dish for you.
Originating from the northern regions of India, this dish is renowned for its succulent pieces of chicken marinated in a rich blend of yogurt, cream (malai), and an array of spices, creating a symphony of flavors with every bite.
Despite its exotic name, Chicken Malai Tikka is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike.
With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can recreate the magic of this classic Indian dish right in your own kitchen.
Marinated in a luscious mixture of yogurt, cream, garlic, ginger, and a hint of spice from green chili paste, the chicken becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
The addition of lemon juice adds a subtle tanginess, while the aromatic spices like black pepper and dried fenugreek leaves (methi) infuse the dish with depth and complexity.
Expert Tip: If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of green chili paste or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra burst of heat.
Chicken: Chicken serves as the main protein in this recipe, providing a tender and juicy base for the flavorful marinade.
Yoghurt: Yoghurt helps tenderize the chicken while adding a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the marinade.
Double Cream Malai: Double cream, also known as malai, enriches the marinade with its creamy consistency, lending a luxurious taste and texture to the dish.
Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish, balancing out the sweetness of the cream and acidity of the yogurt.
Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle kick of heat and depth of flavor to the marinade.
Garlic Paste: Garlic paste infuses the chicken with a bold, savory flavor, complementing the creamy and aromatic elements of the marinade.
Ginger Paste: Ginger paste adds a warm, spicy note to the marinade, enhancing its depth and complexity.
Green Chilli Paste: Green chili paste provides a subtle heat and fresh flavor to the marinade, adding a delicious kick to the dish.
Oil: Oil helps bind the marinade ingredients together and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan during cooking.
Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the marinade, balancing out the richness of the cream and yogurt.
Cornflour: Cornflour acts as a thickening agent in the marinade, helping to create a smooth and creamy texture.
Dried Fenugreek Leaves (Methi): Dried fenugreek leaves, also known as methi, contribute a distinctive earthy flavor and aroma to the dish, enhancing its complexity.
Coriander: Fresh coriander leaves, chopped finely, add a burst of freshness and color to the finished dish, elevating its presentation and flavor profile.
Expert Tip: To achieve a smoky flavor similar to traditional tandoori cooking, you can add a small amount of smoked paprika or ground cumin to the marinade.
Expert Tip: For extra tenderness and flavor, prick the chicken pieces with a fork before marinating to allow the marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is recommended to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. However, for best results, you can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator to intensify the flavor.
While chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, you can certainly use chicken breast if preferred. Just be mindful that chicken breast tends to cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent it from drying out.
Yes, you can grill the chicken on a barbecue grill or stovetop grill pan instead of roasting it in the oven. Simply skewer the marinated chicken pieces and grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Place the marinated chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
While cream adds richness and flavor to the marinade, you can omit it if you prefer a lighter version of the dish. Alternatively, you can use Greek yogurt or coconut milk as a substitute for cream while still achieving a creamy texture.
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Latest comments (4)
Is the Coriander Fresh or Ground?
Hey, I used fresh coriander in this recipe for that vibrant flavour and aroma. It really makes a difference! 😊
Awesome dish the kids love it too
Thank you for trying out the chicken malai tikka recipe and I’m so glad to hear that your family enjoyed it, especially the kids! It’s always a great feeling to know that a recipe has been a hit with everyone, and I’m grateful that my recipe was able to bring some joy and deliciousness to your home. I hope you and your family continue to enjoy many more tasty meals together!