Best Easy Malai Tikka Recipe

Malai Tikka is an aromatic Indian chicken curry that's rich in protein and full of traditional flavor. Perfect for family gatherings, this chicken dish pairs beautifully with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 310 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • boneless chicken breast 1.5 lbs
  • heavy cream 0.5 cup
  • plain Greek yogurt 0.5 cup
  • grated mozzarella cheese 0.25 cup
  • onion 0.25 cup
  • ginger paste 1 tbsp
  • garlic paste 1 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • lemon juice 1 tbsp
  • garam masala 1 tsp
  • coriander powder 1 tsp
  • ground cumin 0.5 tsp
  • white pepper 0.5 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 7 g 9%
Protein 31 g 40%
Fat 16 g 51%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Cut boneless chicken breast into 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking and place in a large mixing bowl.

  2. 2

    In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Greek yogurt, grated mozzarella, onion, ginger paste, and garlic paste until smooth.

  3. 3

    Add lemon juice, garam masala, coriander powder, ground cumin, white pepper, and salt to the marinade; mix well for uniform seasoning.

  4. 4

    Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring all surfaces are well coated; cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours for extra tenderness).

  5. 5

    Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, letting excess marinade drip off.

  6. 6

    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or prepare a grill over medium-high heat; lightly brush the grates or a baking rack with oil.

  7. 7

    Arrange skewers on the grill or rack; roast or grill for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.

  8. 8

    Optional: Broil for 2 minutes at the end for extra char, watching closely to prevent burning.

  9. 9

    Rest the Malai Tikka for 3 minutes before serving to retain juices and enhance flavor.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core ingredient in Malai Tikka is boneless chicken breast, which is marinated in a rich blend of cream, yogurt, and spices. The heavy cream and mozzarella cheese elevate the dish, lending its signature creamy texture and mild flavor.
Q. What cooking step is most important for flavor and tenderness?
Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour is crucial for maximum tenderness and balanced flavor. Allowing time for the cream, yogurt, and spices to penetrate prevents dry texture and enhances the dish's delicacy.
Q. How can I prevent the chicken from drying out during cooking?
To avoid dryness, cook the chicken at high heat (425°F or medium-high grill) but avoid overcooking. Turn the skewers halfway and remove as soon as the edges char and centers are cooked through—resting the meat before serving helps retain moisture.
Q. How many calories are in one serving of Malai Tikka?
Each 180g serving of this Malai Tikka contains approximately 310 kcal, with 31g protein (40%), 7g carbohydrates (9%), and 16g fat (51%), making it a protein-rich option for flavorful meals.
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