If you’re craving something rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this Malai Boti is just the dish for you. Made with tender chunks of chicken marinated in a mixture of cream, yogurt, and fragrant spices, then grilled to perfection, this Pakistani favorite is both indulgent and irresistible.
Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ or enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, Malai Boti is sure to impress. Ready to fire up the grill and get cooking? Let’s dive in!
Malai Boti
Ingredients
For the Malai Boti Marinade
- 1 lb 450g boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp green chili paste or finely minced green chilies
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted butter for grilling
Optional Garnish
- Fresh coriander cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Sliced onions
Substitutions
- Vegan: Use tofu or paneer in place of chicken and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Low-Fat: Use low-fat yogurt and reduce the amount of cream.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 skewer of Malai Boti):
- Calories: 250-300
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Sugar: 2g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- You can experiment with the creaminess by adjusting the amount of cream cheese or using different types of cream (like sour cream or coconut cream).
- If you don’t have a grill, you can pan-fry the chicken pieces in a skillet with a little oil until they are golden and cooked through.
- Don’t skip the marination time—it allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, making it extra tender and flavorful.
Variations:
- Spicy Malai Boti: Add more green chilies or a dash of red chili powder to the marinade for extra heat.
- Malai Paneer Tikka: Replace the chicken with chunks of paneer for a vegetarian version. Grill until the paneer is golden and slightly charred.
- Baked Malai Boti: For an indoor version, bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to get a nice char.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: Malai Boti pairs wonderfully with naan, paratha, or a side of basmati rice. It’s also delicious served alongside a fresh cucumber salad or a cooling yogurt raita.
- Make It Ahead: The chicken can be marinated the night before, allowing you to grill it fresh when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or hosting guests.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or microwave before serving.
Final Thoughts:
And there you have it—Malai Boti that’s creamy, tender, and packed with incredible flavors! This dish is the perfect combination of richness from the cream and the boldness of spices, making it a true favorite in Pakistani and Mughlai cuisine. Whether you’re grilling it up for a BBQ or serving it as a weeknight meal, this Malai Boti is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and enjoy this delicious dish. Bon appétit!