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Malai Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer Style)

Recipe by Upma Kaburulu on InstagramAdded 2 November 2026.

15 minutes to prep, 25 to cook. A creamy, spiced Malai Chicken Tikka cooked in an air fryer for a juicy, smoky finish. The tangy ginger‑garlic mirchi paste, aromatic spices, and a rich curd‑cream sauce give this dish a luxurious texture and flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent.

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Malai Chicken Tikka (Air Fryer Style) by Upma Kaburulu, a frame from the Instagram video

Method

  1. Add salt to the chicken pieces and mix.

  2. Add ginger garlic mirchi paste and mix properly.

  3. Add black pepper, garam masala, and coriander powder and mix.

  4. Add curd, fresh cream, and mozzarella cheese, then mix everything together.

  5. Stir in the chopped green herbs.

  6. Marinate the mixture for 2–4 hours, or overnight, and refrigerate.

  7. Place the bowl containing the marinated chicken in the refrigerator.

  8. Place parchment paper in the air‑fryer basket.

  9. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air‑fryer basket.

  10. Air‑fry at 350°F for 15 minutes.

  11. Flip the chicken and air‑fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.

Tips while you cook

Even coating
Mix all spices, curd, cream, and cheese with the chicken before marinating.
Adequate marination
Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 2 hours for best texture.
Prevent sticking
Line the air‑fryer basket with parchment paper before arranging the chicken.
Flip for even cooking
Turn the pieces halfway through the second air‑fry stage.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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Upma Kaburulu made this.

The recipe comes from Upma Kaburulu’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

Are you Upma Kaburulu and want this changed? Email [email protected].

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