Go Back

Malai Chicken Tikka with Creamy Marinade

Elina James
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 500 g boneless chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1/2 cup thick yogurt (curd)
  • 3 tablespoons fresh cream (malai or heavy cream)
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese or grated processed cheese
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped or crushed
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornflour or gram flour (for binding)
  • 1 tablespoon oil or melted butter
  • Salt, to taste
  • For Garnish and Serving:
  • Chaat masala, for sprinkling
  • Lemon wedges
  • Mint-coriander chutney
  • Sliced onions

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Marinade : In a large bowl, add yogurt, cream, cream cheese, and ginger-garlic paste. Mix in green chilies, lemon juice, white pepper, garam masala, cumin powder, cornflour, and salt. Whisk well until smooth and creamy. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Drizzle a bit of oil or melted butter, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (overnight gives best flavor).
  • Step 2: Skewer the Chicken : Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Leave small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
  • Step 3: Cook the Tikka : Option 1 – Grill or BBQ: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until golden with slight char marks. Brush with butter or cream halfway for extra richness. Option 2 – Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking tray with foil and lightly oil it. Place the skewers on the rack and bake for 20 minutes, turning once. Optional: Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a charred effect. Option 3 – Pan-Cooked: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a non-stick pan. Add the marinated chicken and cook on medium flame for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.