Air Fryer Malai Chicken Tikka

No ratings yet

on Aug 28, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Making delicious, street-style malai chicken tikka at home super easy, and the air fryer makes the job so hands- and mess-free! It’s got the same juicy chicken, the same char, and the same rich, delicious flavor.

air fryer malai chicken tikka served on a plate with accompaniments

This air fryer malai chicken tikka recipe is so good, you’ll wonder why you did not make it sooner! It’s got that perfectly charred skin we all love, along with a beautiful smokey aroma and flavor, and the juiciest chicken ever!

And making this in the air fryer means apart from a quick 5 minute prep, your air fryer does most of the heavy lifting. Serve with mint chutney and pickled onions for the most perfect party appetiser ever!

Malai Chicken Tikka Ingredients

Chicken: I have used chicken drumsticks that are butterflied (check the video below) to allow the marinade to seep in. You can use boneless pieces, but pick thigh pieces as they juicy and tender through the cooking process

Greek Yogurt: Helps tenderise the chicken, adds flavor, and helps the spices stick to the chicken for better flavor

Ginger garlic paste: To add aroma and flavor

Spices: Pepper powder, cardamom powder, and garam masala for flavor

Cheese: Processed cheese cube for a lovely richness of flavor to ever bite

Coriander: Finely chopped fresh coriander for lots freshness and flavor

Butter: For brushing. Adds a beautiful rich finish

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pieces instead?

Yes, why not. Bone-in pieces stay juicier and more flavorful. But you can definitely swap with boneless thigh pieces.

Can I make this with a vegetarian protein?

You can make this with paneer but you will have to adjust the cook time as paneer cooks way faster.

Which type of cheese works best for this recipe?

I have used a processed cheese cube for this recipe but you can use cheddar or instead.

How do I know when the chicken tikka is ready?

When the pieces have charred beautifully on the outside, the chicken tikka is ready to be served. This takes about 12-14 minutes but the cook time may differ depending on your air fryer and the cut of your chicken.

Richa’s Top Tips

Marinate for at least an hour: But the longer the better. This gives the chicken time to absorb the flavours. If I have time, I like to marinade in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Get the marinade into the slits: Don’t just coat the outside. Use your fingers to work the marinade into every slit and crevice for flavourful chicken throughout.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer with some space between them. This allows hot air to circulate properly and helps the chicken brown evenly.
Keep an eye on the cooking time: Drumsticks can vary quite a bit in size, so start checking around the 12-minute mark. Smaller pieces may cook faster, while larger ones may need a couple of extra minutes.

Storage Tips

Fridge: Store leftover chicken tikka in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Reheat: To reheat, place the drumsticks in the air fryer at 180°C for 3-5 minutes, until heated through. Avoid overheating as the chicken can dry out.
Freeze: You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer until hot.

Serving Ideas

These malai chicken tikkas are traditionally served hot with mint chutney, sliced onions, and lemon wedges.
For a more substantial meal, serve them with jeera rice, naan, roti or pulao.
You can also shred the cooked chicken and use it in wraps, rolls, sandwiches or rice bowls.

a close up image of air fryer malai chicken tikka to showcase it's color and texture

This air fryer malai chicken tikkas recipe is truly a game changer and the easiest way to get delicious street-style chicken tikka at home in no time. If you make this recipe, don’t forget to DM the pictures @my_foodstory. Until then, happy cooking!