Introduction:
chicken malai tikka recipe is a delightful Indian appetizer known for its creamy, tender, and flavorful chicken pieces. This dish is a popular choice at parties, family gatherings, and even as a restaurant favorite. The succulent chunks of chicken are marinated in a rich mixture of cream, yogurt, and aromatic spices before being grilled or baked to perfection. In this blog post, we’ll take you through a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make Chicken Malai Tikka at home.
Table of Contents
Chicken Malai Tikka Recipe
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless chicken (breast or thigh pieces)
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 1/2 cup thick yogurt
- 2 tbsp grated cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp green chili paste (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (modify according to taste)
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander leaves
- 2 tbsp finely chopped mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:Wash and pat dry the chicken pieces.Cut them into bite-sized cubes or strips.
- Marination:In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh cream, thick yogurt, grated cheese (if using), ginger-garlic paste, green chili paste, and all the dry spices – garam masala, turmeric powder, Chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt are all ingredients.Add lemon juice and vegetable oil to the mixture and give it a good mix.Add the chicken pieces and fully coat with the marinade.Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 2-4 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the better the flavors will infuse into the chicken.
- Skewering:To keep wooden skewers from burning, immerse them in water for about 30 minutes.Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
- Grilling or Baking:You can either grill the chicken on a barbecue grill or bake it in an oven.Preheat the grill to medium-high heat if grilling.Grill the chicken skewers, turning them occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char on the outside. This should take approximately 15-20 minutes.If baking, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is cooked and slightly browned
- Serve:Garnish the Chicken Malai Tikka with lemon wedges, onion rings, fresh coriander leaves, and mint chutney.Serve hot as an appetizer or with naan, roti, or rice as a main course.
what make it perfect
Balanced Marination: The ideal marination includes a harmonious blend of fresh cream, yogurt, spices, and herbs. Achieving the right balance of flavors and textures is crucial.
Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality, fresh chicken and dairy products. Using premium ingredients ensures a more flavorful and tender outcome.
Marination Duration: Patience is key. Marinating the chicken for an extended period, preferably overnight, allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.
Aromatic Spices: The use of aromatic spices like garam masala, cumin, coriander, and green chili paste is essential for that perfect balance of heat and flavor.
Natural Sweetness: A touch of natural sweetness from honey or maple syrup can elevate the dish and create a more complex flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh mint and coriander leaves not only enhances flavor but also adds a refreshing element to each bite.
Grilling Technique: Grilling over charcoal or wood imparts a smoky flavor that takes the dish to the next level. However, if using an oven, careful monitoring of cooking time is essential to prevent overcooking.
Butter Basting: Basting the chicken with melted butter or ghee during cooking adds richness and depth to the dish.
Accompaniments: Pairing the Chicken Malai Tikka with complementary sides like mint chutney or fresh salads completes the dining experience.
Presentation: The final touch comes with garnishes like lemon wedges, onion rings, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves, making the dish visually appealing and inviting.
Tips:
- For a smoky flavor, you can use a piece of red-hot charcoal. Place it in a small steel bowl inside the marinating chicken, drizzle some oil on the charcoal, and cover the bowl with a lid for a few minutes before skewering.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of green chili paste and red chili powder.
- If you prefer a richer taste, you can add a bit more grated cheese to the marinade.
Conclusion:
Chicken Malai Tikka is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the creaminess of the marinade with the aromatic spices. It’s a great option for those who love the mild yet flavorful side of Indian cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Enjoy!
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