Chicken Malai Tikka Recipe – Creamy & Juicy Restaurant-Style Tikka
If you love creamy, melt-in-mouth chicken tikka, then this Chicken Malai Tikka recipe is just what you need! Made with boneless chicken, fresh cream, yogurt, and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is popular in Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Unlike the spicy version, malai tikka is mild, rich, and perfect for both kids and adults. Grill it, bake it, or cook on a stovetop – it’s always a hit at BBQ parties and family dinners.
🥘 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into bite-size cubes)
- ¼ cup thick yogurt (curd)
- 3 tbsp fresh cream (malai)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese or hung curd (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to spice level)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp white pepper powder (or black pepper if preferred)
- ½ tsp garam masala powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp oil or melted butter (for brushing)
- Fresh coriander or mint leaves for garnish
🔪 Instructions
-
Prepare the marinade
- In a mixing bowl, add yogurt, fresh cream, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, green chilies, and all dry spices.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
-
Marinate the chicken
- Add chicken pieces, coat well, and cover.
- Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours (overnight gives best flavor).
-
Cook the chicken
- Grill/BBQ: Thread chicken onto skewers, brush with oil, and grill until golden and cooked through.
- Oven: Preheat to 200°C (390°F), bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once and brushing with butter.
- Stovetop: Heat a pan with 2 tbsp oil, cook until tender and slightly charred.
-
Serve hot
- Garnish with coriander/mint and serve with naan, salad, and green chutney.
🌟 Tips for Perfect Chicken Malai Tikka
- Use thick yogurt and fresh cream for a rich and creamy marinade.
- For smoky flavor, place a hot coal in the pan, drizzle with ghee, cover for 2 minutes.
- Don’t overcook – chicken should remain soft and juicy.
- Add grated cheese for a more restaurant-style creamy tikka.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with mint yogurt chutney and naan for a classic combo.
- Pair with jeera rice or pulao for a wholesome meal.
- Wrap in parathas or pita bread with salad for a quick roll.
- Great as a starter for BBQ nights and parties.
❓ FAQs about Chicken Malai Tikka
Q1: Can I use chicken with bones for malai tikka?
👉 Yes, but boneless chicken cooks faster and absorbs marinade better.
Q2: Can I make chicken malai tikka without oven or grill?
👉 Yes, you can cook on a stovetop pan or tawa with little oil.
Q3: How long can I store marinated chicken?
👉 Keep refrigerated up to 24 hours. Do not freeze with cream.
🔗 Similar Recipes You’ll Love
- Chicken Seekh Kebab
- Chicken Tikka Masala
- Chicken Shami Kebab
- Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
- Chicken Chapli Kebab

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