Creamy malai chicken tikka is a delicious and indulgent Indian dish that features tender chicken marinated in a creamy and flavorful mixture. Here’s a detailed description of creamy malai chicken tikka:
Chicken: Boneless chicken pieces, usually breast or thigh, are used for making malai chicken tikka. The chicken is typically cut into bite-sized cubes or strips, allowing the marinade to penetrate the meat evenly.
Marinade: The chicken is marinated in a mixture of cream, yogurt, grated or powdered cheese (such as processed cheese or paneer), ginger-garlic paste, spices, and sometimes a touch of lemon juice. The cream and cheese provide richness and a creamy texture to the marinade, while the yogurt adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the chicken. Common spices used in the marinade include red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and salt. The marinade is usually thick and coats the chicken pieces well.
Resting Time: After marinating the chicken, it is recommended to let it rest in the refrigerator for at least a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
Grilling/Baking: The marinated chicken is then cooked by grilling, baking, or sometimes pan-frying. Grilling or baking is the preferred method as it adds a smoky and charred flavor to the dish. The chicken pieces are usually threaded onto skewers and cooked until they are cooked through and have a slightly browned and caramelized exterior.
Creamy Finish: Once the chicken is cooked, it is often brushed with additional cream or melted butter for added richness and to enhance the creamy texture. This step adds a luscious and velvety coating to the chicken.
Serving: Creamy malai chicken tikka is typically served hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves and accompanied by mint chutney or a tangy yogurt-based dip. It is commonly enjoyed as an appetizer or as part of a main course with naan bread, roti, or rice.
Creamy malai chicken tikka is known for its succulent and tender chicken pieces that are bursting with rich, creamy flavors. The combination of cream, yogurt, and cheese in the marinade creates a luxurious and indulgent dish that is sure to please your taste buds.
