Creamy Chicken Malai Curry Recipe: A Flavorful Delight

Introduction: 

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of our Creamy Chicken Malai Curry recipe, a classic Indian dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its creamy texture and delicate spices. This dish features tender chicken cooked in a luxurious sauce made with cream, yogurt, and a blend of aromatic spices. Whether served with fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread, this Chicken Malai Curry is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Follow along as we guide you through the steps to create this flavorful delight in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients:

For Marinating the Chicken:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon ground turmeric

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

Salt to taste

For the Curry:

2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil

1 cinnamon stick

2-3 green cardamom pods

2-3 cloves

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 tomatoes, pureed

1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish

Salt to taste

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, ground turmeric, ground coriander, ground cumin, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for best results.

Heat ghee or vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the tomato puree and tomato paste (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the raw smell of the tomatoes disappears and the mixture thickens slightly.

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet along with any remaining marinade. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat.

Garnish the Chicken Malai Curry with chopped fresh cilantro (coriander leaves).

Serve the creamy Chicken Malai Curry hot with steamed rice, naan bread, or your favorite Indian bread.

Conclusion: 

With its creamy texture and flavorful spices, this Chicken Malai Curry is a true delight for the senses. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or served as the centerpiece of a festive feast, this dish is sure to impress. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the irresistible flavors of this homemade Chicken Malai Curry recipe and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of India.