Malai Chicken

Instructions for Making Malai Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. If using chicken breasts, slice them into smaller, bite-sized pieces or keep them whole for grilling. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, cream, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, vinegar, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. Add salt to taste and mix everything well to form a smooth marinade.

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.

2. Cook the Chicken

There are several ways to cook the marinated chicken:

• Grilling: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking, and then cook the marinated chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. If grilling whole pieces, cook them for 10-12 minutes per side.
• Pan-frying: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 7-8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. You can cover the pan with a lid to ensure the chicken stays juicy.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned on the edges.

3. Prepare the Gravy

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the gravy. In a large skillet, heat ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the green chilies (if using) and ginger-garlic paste, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.

Next, add the ground cumin, coriander powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well, letting the spices bloom and release their aroma. Add the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the raw tomato taste disappears.

Pour in heavy cream to make the sauce rich and creamy. Let the gravy simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

4. Combine the Chicken and Gravy

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to the pan with the gravy and mix gently to coat the chicken with the creamy tomato sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Malai Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides, making it perfect for a hearty meal:

• Naan or Roti: Soft, pillowy naan or roti is ideal for scooping up the creamy gravy.
• Rice: Serve over steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete meal.
• Vegetables: Serve alongside sautéed vegetables, like peas, carrots, or a fresh salad, for a well-rounded dish.

Tips for Perfect Malai Chicken

• Tenderize the Chicken: For even more tender chicken, use chicken thighs, as they tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking. You can also use a meat mallet to lightly pound the chicken before marinating for extra tenderness.
• Adjust the Spice Level: The traditional Malai Chicken is mild, but if you prefer more heat, you can add more green chilies or red chili powder to the marinade or the gravy.
• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use freshly ground cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Freshly ground spices give the dish a more intense and aromatic flavor.
• Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices and keeps the meat tender.

Final Thoughts

Malai Chicken is a rich, flavorful, and indulgent dish that is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Whether you make it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it brings a taste of Indian cuisine that’s both comforting and impressive. The combination of creamy yogurt, velvety cream, and aromatic spices creates a dish that is full of flavor without being too spicy, making it a great option for those who enjoy milder Indian dishes.

Try making Malai Chicken today, and enjoy this deliciously creamy and aromatic dish that will have your taste buds dancing with joy!