Chicken Malai Kebab Recipe
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: High Protein, Non-Vegetarian
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Chicken Malai Kebab is a popular Indian appetizer that combines tender chicken pieces marinated in a luscious blend of yogurt, cream, and aromatic spices. This dish, known for its creamy texture and smoky flavor, is perfect for special occasions or as a party starter. The chicken, marinated overnight for enhanced flavor, is cooked to perfection on a grilling pan, making it a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with a fresh chutney or pickled onions. Follow this easy recipe to make succulent Chicken Malai Kebabs at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 250 grams (cut into 2-inch cubes) |
| Onion paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Ginger garlic paste | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Hung curd (Greek yogurt) | 30 ml |
| Fresh cream | 60 ml |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower oil | As required for shallow frying |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken: Begin by pricking the chicken pieces slightly using a fork. This allows the marinade to infuse into the chicken, making it more flavorful and tender. Transfer the pricked chicken pieces to a mixing bowl.
-
Make the Marinade: To the bowl with the chicken, add the onion paste, ginger garlic paste, red chili powder, hung curd (Greek yogurt), fresh cream, cumin powder, and salt. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade.
-
Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 4-6 hours, but for the best results, marinate the chicken overnight. This extended marination helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the spices and the creamy mixture, ensuring a rich taste.
-
Cooking the Kebabs: After marination, heat a grilling pan over medium heat. Add a few teaspoons of sunflower oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, place the marinated chicken pieces in the pan. Cook them on low-medium flame, flipping the pieces after a few minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides.
-
Check for Doneness: Allow the chicken to cook through, ensuring it is no longer pink inside and the edges are slightly charred. This should take about 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken cubes.
-
Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Serve the Chicken Malai Kebabs hot with Dhaniya Pudina Chutney (Coriander Mint Chutney) and Pickled Onions for an authentic and refreshing touch.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Malai Kebab is best enjoyed as a party appetizer or a light starter. Pair it with tangy chutneys and salads for a well-rounded meal. Its creamy texture and mild spices make it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, barbecues, or festive occasions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
This dish provides a rich source of protein from the chicken and the creamy marinade, making it a satisfying choice for a high-protein, low-carb diet.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Malai Kebabs
- Marinate Overnight: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. Overnight marination works best for deep flavor absorption.
- Grilling: If you prefer, you can cook these kebabs on an outdoor grill for a smokier flavor.
- Cream Variations: For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream and use a bit more yogurt.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your preferred spice tolerance. You can also add a dash of garam masala for an extra layer of flavor.
Chicken Malai Kebab is a dish that combines the richness of cream with the warm flavors of traditional Indian spices. Whether you serve it at a festive gathering or enjoy it as a simple dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Enjoy!
