Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that bursts with creamy, aromatic flavors and a zesty finish, then you absolutely need to try this Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish. This Bangladeshi-inspired delight features succulent chicken cubes marinated in a heavenly blend of yogurt, cream, and warming spices. The magic lies in the marinade that infuses every bite with melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, perfectly balanced by the fresh brightness of lemon slices. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a lively barbecue, this dish promises to win hearts and taste buds alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in delivering that luscious texture and bold flavor that define Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish. From creamy yogurt to vibrant spices, the combination is straightforward but guarantees an unforgettable dish.
- 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into cubes: The star of the dish, tender and perfect for soaking up the marinade.
- 1 cup yogurt: Adds creaminess and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons cream: Enhances the richness and gives the kebabs that silky texture.
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: Provides a fragrant base with a slight kick.
- 1 teaspoon garam masala: Offers a warm, complex spice blend crucial for authentic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder: Gives a subtle earthiness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder: Adds a fresh, slightly citrusy note to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder: Brings a gentle heat, adjustable to your preference.
- Salt to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens and lifts the whole dish with a zesty tang.
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped: For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
- Skewers (wooden or metal): For threading and grilling the kebabs perfectly.
How to Make Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing yogurt, cream, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, salt, and lemon juice in a bowl until well combined. Add the chicken cubes and stir to coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, but overnight is best—this slow absorption is what ensures tender, flavorful kebabs with that rich creamy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken is soaking up those incredible flavors, get your skewers ready. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling. Then, thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the skewers, making sure they’re not too tightly packed so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Kebabs
Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill or in the oven, turning them every 5 minutes or so to ensure even cooking and a beautiful char on all sides. Cooking time should be around 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juicy inside, with just the right hint of smoky char on the outside.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once done, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the skewers and arrange them on a serving plate. Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves and arrange lemon wedges around the dish. The Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish is now ready to wow your guests with its creamy texture and refreshing citrus zing.
How to Serve Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish
Garnishes
Freshness is key when serving Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish. The chopped coriander not only adds a beautiful green pop but balances the creamy spices with its herbal notes. The lemon slices squeezed over just before eating amplify the dish’s brightness, creating the perfect harmony between richness and zest.
Side Dishes
Pair these luscious kebabs with some fluffy basmati rice, naan bread, or a crunchy cucumber raita for a complete and satisfying meal. A simple salad of sliced onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with chaat masala can complement the smoky richness of the kebabs beautifully, rounding out the meal with crisp textures and refreshing flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, consider serving the Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish on a rustic wooden board with a variety of chutneys like mint-coriander or tamarind sauce. You could also create a kebab platter with colorful vegetable skewers alongside, garnished generously with lemon wedges for that inviting zing and vibrant look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The kebabs will stay good for up to 2 days and still retain much of their flavor and tenderness if reheated gently.
Freezing
Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish freezes nicely before cooking. Marinate the chicken, thread onto skewers, and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can cook fresh kebabs straight from the freezer within a month without losing any of the delicious marinade flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the kebabs in an oven or on a grill at moderate heat to avoid drying them out. You can also cover them with foil to trap moisture, reviving their creamy, tender texture perfectly. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish?
Yes, you can use bone-in pieces, but boneless cubes cook more evenly and are easier to thread on skewers. Bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe without cream?
You can substitute cream with full-fat yogurt or a splash of milk, but the creamy richness that characterizes Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish will be slightly less pronounced.
How spicy is Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish?
The spice level is mild to moderate, thanks to the balanced use of red chili powder. Adjust it to your taste by reducing or increasing the chili for a milder or hotter experience.
Can I grill the kebabs indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, using an oven’s broiler function or a grill pan on the stove top works well to achieve that lovely char and smoky flavor.
What are some good dips to serve alongside Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish?
Mint-coriander chutney, yogurt raita, or tangy tamarind chutney are all excellent options that complement the creamy kebabs beautifully and add extra layers of flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way Chicken Malai Kebab with Lemon Garnish combines creamy spices with fresh citrusy notes. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table. I encourage you to try making it—you’ll soon see why it’s such a beloved recipe that keeps everyone asking for seconds!
