How To Make Malai Chicken Recipe | Best Malai Chicken Recipe| Malai Chicken Curry

 How To Make Malai Chicken Recipe

Malai Chicken Recipe: Creamy Delight for Food Lovers

Best Malai Chicken Recipe If you're a fan of rich, Malai Chicken Curry flavors, then Malai Chicken is a recipe you must try. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this dish has become a favorite for many due to its indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The word "malai" refers to cream, which is the star ingredient in this delicious recipe. 

The succulent chicken, marinated in a blend of spices and cream, offers a delightful balance of flavors that’s sure to impress. 

Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For this creamy chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

500 grams boneless chicken (cut into medium-sized pieces)

1 cup fresh cream (malai)

1/2 cup yogurt

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

2 green chilies (finely chopped)

1/2 cup cashew paste (soak 10-15 cashews in water, blend to a smooth paste)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup grated cheese (optional for richer flavor)

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1/2 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons butter or ghee

Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

For the Marinade

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine fresh cream, yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, chopped green chilies, lemon juice, cumin powder, black pepper powder, and salt. Mix well.

Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to this marinade, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Marinate the chicken  for at least 2 hours. For best results, refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to deeply infuse into the chicken.

Cooking the Malai Chicken

Heat Butter: In a pan, heat butter or ghee over medium heat. Once melted, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken starts to cook through.

Cashew Paste Addition: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cashew paste. This thickens the sauce, giving it that signature creamy texture. If you’re using grated cheese for extra richness, add it at this stage. Stir gently to incorporate the cheese.

Simmer: Cook for another 10-12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. You can adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding a splash of water or milk if needed.

Season and Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle garam masala over the top, and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a touch of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Malai Chicken pairs beautifully with various types of bread like naan, roti, or paratha. For a complete meal, serve it alongside basmati rice or a lightly spiced pulao. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita or fresh salad to balance the rich flavors.

Tips for Perfect Malai Chicken

Marination is Key: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Try marinating overnight for the best results.

Fresh Cream Matters: Use fresh, high-quality cream for the richest flavor and smooth texture.

Cashew Paste: If you don’t have cashews, you can substitute with almond paste for a different nutty flavor.

Grill Option: For a smoky flavor, you can also grill the marinated chicken before adding it to the pan with the cashew paste.

Health Benefits of Malai Chicken

While this dish is indulgent, it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for  building and repairing muscle. The cashews add healthy fats and are rich in minerals like magnesium, while the yogurt provides probiotics for gut health. To make the dish a little lighter, you can use low-fat yogurt and reduce the amount of butter.

Conclusion

Malai Chicken is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Its blend of spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken will undoubtedly make it a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy this luxurious treat!