5 Steps to Make Delicious Malai Tikka at Home Like a Pro

If you’re craving something creamy, juicy, and smoky from the comfort of your kitchen, then malai tikka is the perfect dish to try. Known for its rich texture, tender meat, and mild spices, this North Indian delicacy is a crowd-pleaser at parties, dinners, or special occasions. In this detailed recipe guide, you’ll learn how to make delicious malai tikka at home using easy steps, a full list of ingredients, and expert tips for restaurant-style flavor.

What is Malai Tikka?

Malai tikka is a creamy grilled meat skewer dish, typically made with boneless chicken cubes marinated in a mixture of cream, cheese, yogurt, and aromatic spices. It is then grilled or baked until tender and slightly charred. The word “malai” means cream, which is key to giving the tikka its signature softness and richness.

This dish is a popular feature in Indian and Mughlai cuisine and is often served with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and naan or paratha.

How to Make Delicious Malai Tikka at Home — ?????????????????

Ingredients for Malai Tikka

Here’s a complete list of all ingredients required to make malai tikka at home.

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Boneless chicken breast/thigh	500 grams	Main protein
Fresh cream (malai)	4 tablespoons	Gives richness and creaminess
Hung curd (thick yogurt)	5 tablespoons	Adds tang and binds marinade
Grated cheese (processed or mozzarella)	3 tablespoons	Creamy flavor and soft texture
Ginger paste	1 teaspoon	Flavor and digestion
Garlic paste	1 teaspoon	Aroma and taste
White pepper powder	1/2 teaspoon	Mild heat without changing color
Green chili paste	1 teaspoon	Gentle spice
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon	Tenderizes meat and adds tang
Cornflour	1 tablespoon	Helps the marinade stick
Cardamom powder	1/4 teaspoon	Aromatic flavor
Nutmeg powder (jaiphal)	A pinch	Warmth and depth
Salt	To taste	Enhances flavor
Cooking oil or melted butter	2 tablespoons	For brushing while grilling
Chaat masala (for garnish)	1 teaspoon	Adds zest after cooking
Fresh coriander leaves	For garnish	Freshness and presentation
Skewers (wooden or metal)	As needed	For threading tikka
Onion rings and lemon wedges	For serving	Traditional accompaniment

How to Make Malai Tikka at Home – Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing the Chicken

Wash the boneless chicken and cut into 1.5-inch cubes.
Pat dry completely using a kitchen towel. Moisture will dilute the marinade.

Making the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, add the following:

4 tbsp fresh cream
5 tbsp hung curd
3 tbsp grated cheese
1 tsp ginger paste
1 tsp garlic paste
1 tsp green chili paste
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp white pepper powder
1 tbsp cornflour
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
A pinch of nutmeg powder
Salt to taste

Mix everything well into a smooth, thick, and creamy marinade.

Marinating the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces into the marinade.
Coat each piece thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Preparing for Cooking

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes (to prevent burning) if using.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) or prepare a charcoal grill or non-stick pan.

Cooking the Malai Tikka

Option 1: Oven Method

Line a baking tray with foil and grease it.
Place skewers on the tray.
Bake at 200°C for 15-20 minutes.
Brush with oil or melted butter, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly charred.

Option 2: Tawa or Pan Method

Heat a non-stick tawa or pan.
Add 1 tablespoon oil and place the skewers.
Cook on medium flame, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly browned.

Option 3: Grill Method

Preheat grill and grease lightly.
Grill the skewers on medium-high heat.
Brush with butter, flip occasionally, and cook until juicy and lightly charred.

Garnishing and Serving

Sprinkle with chaat masala.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with onion rings, lemon wedges, and mint chutney.

Nutrition Facts of Malai Tikka (Per Serving ~150g)

Nutrient	Approx. Value
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	28 grams
Fat	20 grams
Saturated Fat	10 grams
Carbohydrates	4 grams
Sugars	2 grams
Fiber	0.5 grams
Sodium	400 mg
Calcium	150 mg
Cholesterol	85 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and serving size.

Pros and Cons of Malai Tikka

Pros

High in protein: Great for muscle building and repair.
Rich flavor: Creamy and mildly spiced – suitable for all age groups.
Customizable: Can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried.
Party favorite: Excellent appetizer for gatherings.

Cons

High in fat: Due to cream and cheese, not ideal for low-fat diets.
Time-consuming: Requires long marination for best results.
Lactose-heavy: Not suitable for those with dairy intolerance.

Final Thoughts

Making malai tikka at home is not only satisfying but also surprisingly easy once you have all the ingredients ready. Its creamy richness, tender texture, and delicate spices make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or simply craving some North Indian comfort food, this recipe will give you restaurant-style malai tikka every time.

So gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and enjoy the heavenly taste of malai tikka in your own kitchen.

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