Chicken Malai Boti (Murgh Malai Tikka)

When it comes to indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth chicken dishes, Malai Chicken Tikka stands out as a creamy, flavorful favorite. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this dish combines tender chicken pieces marinated in a rich blend of yogurt, cream, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, resulting in a succulent kebab that's both luxurious and comforting.

What Is Malai Chicken Tikka?

"Malai" translates to "cream" in Hindi, and "Tikka" refers to small pieces or chunks. Thus, Malai Chicken Tikka is a dish where boneless chicken pieces are marinated in a creamy mixture and then grilled to perfection. The marinade typically includes ingredients like yogurt, cream, cheese, and a variety of spices, which not only tenderize the chicken but also infuse it with a rich, aromatic flavor.

This dish is often associated with Mughlai cuisine and is a popular choice in Indian and Pakistani restaurants. It's known for its mild yet flavorful taste, making it a favorite among those who prefer less spicy dishes.

Ingredients You'll Need

To prepare Malai Chicken Tikka, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Yogurt: ½ cup (preferably thick or Greek-style)
• Cream: ¼ cup (double or heavy cream)
• Cheese: 2 tablespoons grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
• Green Chilies: 1-2, finely chopped or ground
• Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
  • Salt to taste
• Cornflour (Cornstarch): 1 tablespoon (for binding)
• Fresh Coriander: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Butter or Ghee: for basting

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, cream, grated cheese, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, chopped green chilies, garam masala, white pepper powder, dried fenugreek leaves, salt, cornflour, and chopped coriander. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.

3. Preheat the Cooking Surface

Preheat your grill, oven, or stovetop grill pan. If using an oven, preheat to 200°C (392°F). If using a grill, ensure the coals are medium-hot.

4. Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.

5. Cook the Chicken

• Grill Method: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.
• Oven Method: Place the skewers on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, basting with melted butter or ghee halfway through.
• Stovetop Method: Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Place the skewers in the pan and cook for 8-10 minutes on each side, basting with butter or ghee.

6. Baste and Serve

During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the chicken with melted butter or ghee to enhance flavor and juiciness. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skewers and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Malai Chicken Tikka pairs wonderfully with:

• Breads: Soft naan, garlic naan, or butter roti
• Rice: Steamed basmati rice or a fragrant pilaf
• Accompaniments: Mint chutney, onion salad, and lemon wedges

For a complete meal, serve with a side of dal (lentils) or a fresh vegetable salad.

Tips for the Perfect Malai Chicken Tikka

• Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight yields the best results, as it allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Cooking Temperature: Ensure your cooking surface is preheated to achieve a good sear and prevent the chicken from becoming dry.
• Moisture Retention: Basting the chicken with butter or ghee during cooking helps retain moisture and adds richness.
• Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don't have access to a grill or oven, you can cook the chicken in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until cooked through.

Conclusion

Malai Chicken Tikka is a delectable dish that combines the richness of cream with the bold flavors of Indian spices. Its tender, juicy texture and aromatic taste make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, preparing a festive meal, or simply craving a flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to impress.

By following the steps outlined above, you can recreate this restaurant-style delicacy in the comfort of your home. Enjoy the process and, most importantly, the delicious results!