Chicken Malai Tikka

Introduction

Chicken Malai Tikka is a classic Indian appetizer made with succulent chicken pieces marinated in a rich and creamy mixture of yogurt, cream, and spices. The marinade is infused with the flavors of ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, which gives it a unique taste and aroma. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and flavorsome tikka that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

To make Chicken Malai Tikka for 4 people, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g boneless chicken, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1 tbsp ginger paste
• 1 tbsp garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp garam masala powder
• 1/2 tsp white pepper powder
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/4 tsp red chili powder
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste
• Skewers for grilling

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make delicious Chicken Malai Tikka at home:

1. In a mixing bowl, add yogurt, cream, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, white pepper powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, lemon juice, oil, and salt. Mix well to make a smooth marinade.

2. Add chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with a cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This will allow the chicken to absorb all the flavors of the marinade.

3. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Soak the skewers in water for 15 minutes to prevent them from burning.

4. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers and place them on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

5. Switch the oven to the grill mode and grill the chicken for 2-3 minutes for a charred effect. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken on a barbecue for a smoky flavor.

6. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.

Vegetarian/Vegan Version

To make a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe, you can replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu. Follow the same marinade and cooking instructions as mentioned above.

Variations

Here are some variations of Chicken Malai Tikka that you can try:

• Add some chopped mint leaves to the marinade for a refreshing flavor.
• Replace cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Use bone-in chicken pieces for a more traditional version.
• Add some food coloring to the marinade to give the tikka a vibrant color.

Conclusion

Chicken Malai Tikka is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. The creamy and flavorful marinade combined with the juicy chicken pieces make it a crowd favorite. So, next time you have a party or a family dinner, try this recipe and enjoy the flavors of India at home.

FAQ

What is Chicken Malai Tikka?

Chicken Malai Tikka is a popular Indian dish made with boneless chicken pieces marinated in a mixture of cream/malai, yogurt, and spices. The marinated chicken is then grilled or baked until it is tender and juicy.

What are the ingredients required to make Chicken Malai Tikka?

To make Chicken Malai Tikka, you will need boneless chicken, cream/malai, yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala powder, salt, lemon juice, and oil.

Can I use chicken with bones for making Chicken Malai Tikka?

Though the traditional recipe calls for boneless chicken, you can use chicken with bones if you prefer. However, the cooking time will be longer, and you may need to adjust the cooking temperature accordingly.

How long should I marinate the chicken for Chicken Malai Tikka?

Ideally, you should marinate the chicken for at least 2-3 hours to ensure that the chicken absorbs all the flavors. You can also marinate the chicken overnight for a more intense flavor.

Can I make Chicken Malai Tikka in the oven?

Yes, you can make Chicken Malai Tikka in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the marinated chicken for 20-25 minutes or until it is cooked through.

Can I make Chicken Malai Tikka on a stovetop?

Yes, you can make Chicken Malai Tikka on a stovetop. Heat a grill pan or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken until it is cooked through, turning occasionally.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Place the marinated chicken in an airtight container or a freezer-safe zip-lock bag and freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

What can I serve with Chicken Malai Tikka?

Chicken Malai Tikka can be served as an appetizer or as a main course. You can serve it with mint chutney, onion rings, and lemon wedges. You can also serve it with naan, roti, or rice.

What is the difference between Chicken Malai Tikka and Chicken Tikka?

While both dishes are made with marinated chicken, the main difference between Chicken Malai Tikka and Chicken Tikka is the marinade. Chicken Malai Tikka is made with a mixture of cream/malai, yogurt, and spices, while Chicken Tikka is made with a mixture of yogurt and spices.

Can I use sour cream instead of cream/malai for making Chicken Malai Tikka?

You can use sour cream instead of cream/malai for making Chicken Malai Tikka, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly. If you want to use sour cream, use full-fat sour cream and add a little heavy cream to make it thicker.