Malai Chicken is a rich and creamy dish made with boneless chicken marinated in a yogurt and cream mixture, flavored with spices like garam masala and cumin. The chicken is first marinated in lemon juice and salt for tenderness, then combined with the creamy marinade and left to sit for a few hours or overnight. you can grill, stovetop cook, or air-fry the marinated chicken for a smoky flavor. Once cooked, garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot with naan or rice. This dish is perfect for special occasions and is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the tender and flavorful Malai Chicken.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams boneless chicken (cubed)
- 1/2 cup fresh cream (malai)
- 1/2 cup thick yogurt (curd)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons grated cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon green chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon white pepper powder (or black pepper)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil or melted butter
- Fresh coriander or mint leaves for garnish
Step By Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Wash and pat dry the boneless chicken pieces. Cut them into medium-sized cubes. Make small cuts or slits in the chicken to help the marinade penetrate better.
Step 2: First Marinade
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, salt, and a pinch of white pepper powder. Add the chicken cubes and mix well. Let the chicken sit for 20 minutes to tenderize and absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Malai Marinade
- In a separate large bowl, mix the following ingredients:
- Thick yogurt
- Fresh cream (malai)
- Grated cheese (optional, but adds extra creaminess)
- Green chili paste
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Cumin powder
- Coriander powder
- Garam masala
- White pepper powder Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the pre-marinated chicken cubes to the malai mixture. Coat each piece well so that the marinade clings to the chicken. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours (overnight for best results). This step is crucial to allow the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender.
Step 5: Cooking the Chicken
Option 1: Grilling (Best Method)
- Preheat your grill or oven to 200 C (400 F). Line a baking tray with foil and place the chicken pieces on skewers (optional).
- Grill the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until it's cooked through and has a slight char on the edges. Baste the chicken with melted butter or oil during grilling for extra richness.
Option 2: Stovetop
- Heat a large pan or tawa (griddle) over medium heat. Add a little oil or butter.
- Place the marinated chicken pieces on the pan, cooking for 6-8 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and golden. Make sure the chicken is tender and juicy.
Option 3: Air-Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 180 C (350 F). Place the marinated chicken in the basket and cook for about 15-18 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
- Once cooked, transfer the malai chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh coriander or mint leaves, and serve hot with naan, paratha, or rice. You can also serve it with a side of green chutney or salad for added freshness.
Tips for Perfect Malai Chicken:
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate, the better the flavors will be absorbed. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Cooking Method: Grilling or air frying helps achieve that smoky flavor and crisp edges. If using a stovetop, make sure not to overcook the chicken to retain its juiciness.
- Cheese and Cream: The addition of grated cheese enhances the creamy texture, but it's optional.
- Flavor Balance: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the green chili paste and garam masala.
