Air Fryer Malai Chicken Tikka

Making delicious street-style malai chicken tikka at home is so easy and the air fryer makes the job so hands-free and mess-free! It has the same juicy chicken, the same char, and the same rich, delicious flavor.

air fried malai chicken tikka served on a side dish

This malai chicken tikka recipe is so good, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner! It has that perfectly melted skin that we all love, along with a beautiful smoky aroma and flavor, and the juiciest chicken ever!

And doing it in the air fryer means, aside from a quick 5 minute prep, your air fryer does most of the heavy lifting. Serve with mint chutney and pickled onions for the most perfect party appetizers ever!

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Malai Chicken Tikka Ingredients

Chicken: I used chicken drumsticks that have been blanched (see video below) to allow the marinade to seep through. You can use boneless pieces, but choose thigh pieces as they are juicy and tender during the cooking process

Greek yogurt: It helps tenderize the chicken, adds flavor and helps the spices stick to the chicken for better flavor

Ginger garlic paste: To add flavor and taste

Seasoning: Pepper powder, cardamom powder and garam masala for flavor

Cheese: Cubed cheese processed for a rich bite-sized deliciousness

Coriander: Finely chopped fresh coriander for lots of freshness and flavor

Butter: For washing. Adds a nice rich finish

Frequently asked questions

Can I use boneless chops instead?

Why not? Bone-in parts remain juicier and tastier. But you can definitely substitute boneless thigh pieces.

Can I make this with a vegetarian protein?

You can do this with paneer but you will have to adjust the cooking time as paneer cooks much faster.

What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?

I used a cube of processed cheese for this recipe, but you can use cheddar or cheddar instead.

How do I know when the chicken tikka is ready?

When the pieces are nicely charred on the outside, the chicken tikka is ready to be served. This takes about 12-14 minutes, but the cooking time may vary depending on the air-frying and the cut of the chicken.

Richa’s top tips

Marinate for at least one hour: But the longer the better. This gives the chicken time to absorb the flavors. If I have time, I like to marinate it in the fridge overnight for best results.
Pour the marinade into the cracks: Don’t just paint the outside. Use your fingers to work the marinade into every crack and crevice for delicious chicken everywhere.
Do not overcrowd the basket: Arrange the sticks in a single layer with some space between them. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and helps the chicken brown evenly.
Keep an eye on the cooking time: Drum sticks can vary slightly in size, so start checking around the 12-minute mark. Smaller portions may cook faster, while larger portions may need a few extra minutes.

Storage tips

Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken tikka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.
Reheat: To warm up, place the drumsticks in the air blower on 180°C for 3-5 minutesuntil it heats up. Avoid overheating as the chicken may dry out.
Freeze: You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in an air fryer until heated through.

Ideas for service

These malai chicken tikkas are traditionally served warm mint chutneysliced onions and lemon wedges.
For a more substantial meal, serve with them jeera rice, naanroti or pulao.
You can also shred the cooked chicken and use it in wraps, rolls, sandwiches or rice bowls.

a close-up image of the chicken malai tikka pan to show its color and texture

This Air Fry Malai Chicken Tikkas recipe is truly a game changer and the easiest way to get delicious street style tikkas at home. If you make this recipe, don’t forget to DM the photos @my_foodstory. Until then, happy cooking!

Watch Chicken Malai Tikka Recipe Video

Cooking modePrevent your screen from going dark

Slice the chicken drumsticks by making 3 slits in the meatiest part (watch the video to see how).
Mix together the curd, ginger garlic paste, salt, pepper, cardamom powder, garam masala, sugar, cheese and coriander in a bowl.
Add the chicken nuggets and make sure the marinade gets into every crevice. Marinate for at least an hour.
Place the sticks in the air fryer basket and fry at 200C for 12-15 minutes. Depending on the size of your drumstick and air fryer, add or subtract 2 minutes.
Brush with butter and serve hot.

Calories: 254kcal, Carbohydrates: 2g, Protein: 24g, Fat: 16g, Saturated fat: 6g, Polyunsaturated fat: 2g, Monounsaturated fats: 6g, Trans fats: 0.2g, Cholesterol: 120mg, Sodium: 728mg, Potassium: 293mg, Fiber: 0.2g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 227was, Vitamin C: 0.1mg, Calcium: 102mg, Iron: 1mg

This article was researched and written by Urvi Dalal.

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