The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Air Fryer Malai Tikka – Creamy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor
If you love Indian appetizers but want a healthier twist, Air Fryer Malai Tikka is a game changer. Imagine tender chicken chunks marinated in creamy spices, perfectly cooked in an air fryer to get that lightly charred, smoky flavor—all without deep frying. The result? Juicy, flavorful bites that are impossible to resist.
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One of the best things about Air Fryer Malai Tikka is how simple it is to get that restaurant-quality texture at home. The creamy marinade keeps the chicken moist while the hot air of the fryer creates lightly crispy edges. Every bite is rich, aromatic, and melts in your mouth, making it perfect for dinner parties or even casual weeknight indulgence.
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Why Air Fryer Malai Tikka Is Worth Trying
Malai Tikka is traditionally cooked in a tandoor, which can be intimidating to replicate at home. The air fryer makes it easy, giving you juicy, smoky chicken with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a lighter alternative to deep frying while keeping all the rich flavors intact. Whether you’re a busy parent or a foodie experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe fits perfectly into your lifestyle.
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Air Fryer Malai Tikka
Creamy, smoky, and flavorful – this Indian-style malai tikka is made with marinated chicken skewers cooked in the air fryer for a restaurant-style experience at home.
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless chicken cut into 1-inch cubes (thighs are juicier)
- ½ cup thick yogurt hung yogurt or Greek yogurt preferred
- ¼ cup fresh cream
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp white pepper powder
- ½ tsp salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil or melted butter for brushing before/after cooking
Instructions
- Trim excess fat and pat chicken cubes dry. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- In a bowl combine thick yogurt, fresh cream, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, ground coriander, white pepper, and salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Add the chicken cubes into the marinade, mix thoroughly so every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; for best results marinate 4–8 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces so heat circulates.
- Place skewers in the basket, brush lightly with oil or melted butter, and air fry for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway. Check for even browning and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a smoky restaurant-style finish, after cooking place a small piece of hot charcoal in a bowl, add a drizzle of ghee, place the hot charcoal in the bowl, and cover the skewers briefly with a lid or foil to capture smoke (dhungar method). Remove charcoal and serve immediately with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Notes
🔹 Use thighs for juicier tikka; breasts work but can dry out if overcooked.
🔹 Thick yogurt (hung or Greek) gives creamier coating — excess marinade can be discarded before skewering.
🔹 For a vegetarian version, substitute paneer or cauliflower and reduce cook time.
🔹 Dhungar (smoking) adds an authentic smoky aroma — do this briefly and carefully.
🔹 Store cooked tikka in the fridge up to 2 days; reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes.
🔹 Serve with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and green chutney. Garnish with a light sprinkle of chaat masala for brightness.
Nutrition
Calories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 32gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 430mgPotassium: 520mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 6mg
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Tips for the Perfect Malai Tikka
Use boneless chicken: It cooks faster and absorbs the creamy marinade better.
Marinate longer: Giving the chicken a few hours or overnight in the fridge enhances flavor and tenderness.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Let the hot air circulate so each piece gets a slight char without steaming.
Optional garnish: Sprinkle fresh coriander or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to elevate the flavors.
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Serving Ideas
Serve your Air Fryer Malai Tikka as an appetizer with mint chutney or tamarind sauce, or as a main dish with naan and salad. It pairs beautifully with rice dishes or even wraps. The creamy texture and smoky edges make it a favorite for kids and adults alike. Perfect for game nights, casual dinners, or festive gatherings.
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Why You’ll Keep Coming Back
Once you try Air Fryer Malai Tikka, it becomes one of those recipes you make over and over. It’s fast, flavorful, and indulgent without being heavy. Plus, the air fryer makes cleanup easy, so you can focus on enjoying the meal instead of worrying about dishes.
