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Malai Tikka (Chicken Kebab)
About This Dish
Malai Tikka is a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken kebab that features tender pieces of chicken breast. These chicken chunks are marinated in a rich, velvety blend of fresh cream, yoghurt, cheese, and mild spices. The marinade is infused with subtle notes of cardamom, white pepper, and garlic, creating a smooth, aromatic base that deeply penetrates the meat. Once marinated, the chicken is slowly grilled in a traditional tandoor so that it develops a golden crust while staying juicy and soft inside. The mild smokiness from the charcoal fire pairs beautifully with the richness of the marinade, resulting in a creamy, balanced, and tender kebab.
Served with mint chutney, pickled onions, and naan, it’s a comforting indulgence and a consistent crowd favourite at BKC London.
History & Tradition
Malai Tikka traces its roots to the regal kitchens of North India, especially within Mughlai and Awadhi culinary traditions. “Malai” means cream, and this dish was crafted to offer a delicate, refined alternative to the spicier kebabs of the region. The Mughals introduced the concept of tenderizing meat with dairy—using cream, yoghurt, and ghee—which became a hallmark of royal cuisine.
Over time, this preparation was adapted across Northern India, particularly in Punjab and Lucknow, where tandoor cooking further elevated the dish. The creamy marinade not only preserved the tenderness of the meat but also acted as a flavorful medium for the aromatic spices. Today, Malai Tikka continues to symbolize elegance and subtlety, offering a gentle yet satisfying flavour experience.
What Makes it Special
What sets Malai Tikka apart is its emphasis on texture, subtlety, and richness. Unlike heavily spiced kebabs, this one relies on the lushness of cream, yoghurt, and cheese to bring out the chicken’s natural juiciness. White pepper and cardamom add gentle warmth without overwhelming heat. The tandoori preparation seals in the moisture while creating a slightly crisp, charred coating that complements the velvety interior.
The contrast of smoky edges and soft, creamy core makes each bite feel indulgent. Malai Tikka dish doesn’t need bold heat to achieve bold flavour—just balance, care, and tradition.
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Aarav Joshi
The Malai Tikka at BKC London is simply amazing. The chicken was unbelievably tender and had a creamy flavour that melted in my mouth. The balance of spices was just right—subtle but satisfying. Paired with the mint chutney and naan, it made for a comforting, flavourful dish that reminded me of home-cooked Awadhi food.
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Lucy Graham
This was hands down the softest chicken tikka I have ever had. The creamy marinade made each bite rich and smooth, with just a hint of spice. It was beautifully grilled and had that perfect bit of smokiness. It felt indulgent without being heavy, and the chutney on the side really tied it all together.
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Oliver Reeves
I was blown away by how tender and flavourful the Malai Tikka was. You could tell it had been marinated with care—the creaminess came through in every bite. It had a lovely char without losing moisture. As someone who usually prefers spicier dishes, this subtle and rich version was a pleasant surprise. Highly recommended.
FAQs
A: Not at all. It’s very mildly spiced, focusing on creamy, aromatic flavours rather than heat.
A: The chicken is marinated in a mix of cream, yoghurt, cheese, and spices, then grilled in a tandoor to achieve a smoky, golden exterior.
A: The combination of dairy ingredients like cream and cheese acts as a natural tenderizer, making the chicken exceptionally soft and juicy.
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