At Saagar, we take pride in serving dishes that balance rich flavors with comforting textures. One such crowd favorite is chicken malai tikka, a dish known for its creamy marinade, smoky aroma, and melt-in-the-mouth tenderness. Unlike spicy tikkas, this preparation is mild yet deeply flavorful, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy subtle richness over heat.
Often searched online as chicken malai tikka recipe, this dish has become a staple starter in Indian cuisine and a must-try item on our menu.
This dish stands out because of its luxurious marinade. “Malai” refers to cream, which gives the chicken a soft texture and mild taste. The marinade usually includes fresh cream, yogurt, mild spices, ginger, garlic, and a touch of fat that helps lock in moisture during cooking.
Unlike traditional red or spicy tikkas, malai tikka focuses on creaminess, gentle smokiness, and balance. At Saagar, we carefully grill the chicken so it remains juicy inside while developing a light char on the outside.
Ingredients Used in Chicken Malai Tikka
The quality of ingredients plays a major role in the final taste.
Key Ingredients:
- Boneless chicken pieces
- Fresh cream and thick yogurt
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Green chilies (used lightly)
- Mild spices
- Lemon juice
- Butter or oil
These ingredients come together to create a marinade that coats the chicken evenly and enhances its natural flavor.
Chicken Malai Tikka Recipe – Step-by-Step Overview
A good chicken malai tikka recipe is simple but requires proper marination and cooking technique.
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
Boneless chicken is cut into medium-sized pieces and mixed with cream, yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, spices, and lemon juice. The marinade should be smooth and thick.
Step 2: Resting Time
The chicken is allowed to marinate for several hours. This step is crucial for tenderness and flavor absorption.
Step 3: Skewering
Marinated chicken pieces are threaded onto skewers, ensuring even spacing for uniform cooking.
Step 4: Cooking
Traditionally, the chicken is cooked in a tandoor or grill. At Saagar, we grill it at the right temperature to achieve a smoky aroma without drying out the meat.
Step 5: Serving
The tikka is finished with a light brush of butter and served hot with mint chutney and onion slices
Chicken Malai Tikka Gravy – A Rich Variation
Many guests also enjoy chicken malai tikka gravy, where grilled tikka pieces are added to a creamy white sauce. This version works beautifully with naan or kulcha and offers the same soft texture with added richness.
The gravy is mild, smooth, and aromatic, making it ideal for those who prefer less spice but full flavor.
Is Chicken Malai Tikka Healthy?
A common question is: is chicken malai tikka healthy?
Compared to deep-fried starters, this dish is grilled, which makes it a lighter option. Chicken provides lean protein, while cream adds richness. When enjoyed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced meal.
Choosing grilled preparation over gravy further reduces calories, making it suitable for those watching their diet.
People often ask about chicken malai tikka calories. The calorie count depends on portion size and preparation method. On average, a serving contains moderate calories, mainly from protein and cream. Since it is not deep-fried, it remains lighter than many other starters.
How to Make Chicken Malai Tikka at Home
Many people search how to make chicken malai tikka at home. The key points to remember are:
- Use fresh cream and thick yogurt
- Marinate for enough time
- Cook on medium heat to avoid drying
A grill pan or oven works well if a tandoor is not available.
For quick preparation, some prefer how to make chicken malai tikka in microwave. Marinate the chicken as usual, arrange pieces on a microwave-safe rack, and cook in grill mode until fully done. While it won’t have the same smoky flavor as a tandoor, it still turns out soft and tasty.
Chicken Malai Tikka Near Me – Why Saagar Is the Right Choice
When people search chicken malai tikka near me, they’re looking for freshness, quality, and authentic taste. At Saagar, every batch is prepared fresh using carefully selected ingredients and traditional techniques.
Our chefs focus on consistency, ensuring that each bite delivers creaminess, softness, and gentle smokiness.
This dish is best enjoyed:
- As a starter before a main course
- With green chutney and lemon
- Alongside naan or rumali roti
- As part of a platter with other tandoor items
Its mild flavor makes it a favorite among families and first-time diners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to make chicken malai tikka?
Marinate boneless chicken in cream, yogurt, spices, and grill until tender and lightly charred.
Is chicken malai tikka healthy?
Yes, when grilled and eaten in moderation, it is a protein-rich and lighter starter.
How many calories in chicken malai tikka?
Calories vary by portion, but it is lower than deep-fried snacks due to grilling.
How to make chicken malai tikka in microwave?
Use microwave grill mode after marination and cook until the chicken is fully done.
How to make malai tikka chicken?
Follow a creamy marinade, allow resting time, and cook evenly on a grill or tandoor.