Barbecued chicken is awesome, but, I am totally digging my air fryer lately. This afghani-style malai chicken tikka was made in the air fryer, and is golden-brown and DELICIOUS! Your air fryer gives you all the char, without having to go outside to fire up the BBQ.
Afghani-style chicken tikka is super simple and mild, but don't let the lighter colour fool you - this chicken is equally as delicious. The nuts are a crucial part of the marinade of the chicken, as they thicken up the yogurt and form a paste-like consistency.
What is Garam Masala?
If you have never cooked with Indian spices before, garam masala is a blend of spices. Most homes have their own recipes for making it, but it can easily be found in most grocery stores, in the ethnic food aisle. If you have not used garam masala before, fear not!
Garam masala is generally made with cinnamon, peppercorns, coriander seeds, cumin, and cardamon. Most Indian grandmothers, like mine, make their own, but the store is your friend!
Pro-Tip for Good Naan
Homemade naan is always best, but honestly it is not the same without a tandoor (clay oven). I live in a condo, and my smoke alarm hates me each and every time I try to make naan at home. At this point, I leave it to restaurants or the store.
Store bought naan can be equally as delicious! Spruce up your favourite store bought naan with melted butter, minced garlic, a tiny dash of turmeric for colour, and nigella seeds! Thank me later!
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Afghani Style Chicken Tikka
- Prep Time: 2 Hours
- Cook Time: 25 Minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 Servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Air Fry
Description
Afghani-style chicken tikka is much like the chicken tikka you know from Indian restaurants, with a twist. Don't let the mild ingredients fool you!
Ingredients
- 1lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - cubed
- ½ cup greek yogurt
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 10 almonds
- 10 cashews
Instructions
- In a blender, mix together all the marinade ingredients. Ensure that the almonds and cashews are thoroughly blended into a paste.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, and let marinade for at least 2 hours.
- Skewer the chicken on blanched skewers, and airfry for 25 minutes at 400 degrees. Enjoy!
Keywords: air fried chicken, afghani malai tikka, chicken tikka, air fryer meals, dinner ideas
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