Recipe

Authentic Chicken Shami Kebabs - Ramadan Iftar Recipe

Prep: 
30 mins
Cook: 
30 mins

Ingredients

  • Boneless Chicken - 1lb (cubed)
  • Chana Dal - 1/2 cup (soaked 30 mins)
  • Onion - 1/2 cup (chopped)
  • Garlic - 3-4 cloves
  • Ginger - 1 inch (chopped)
  • Green Chilies - 2 qty (chopped)
  • Cumin Seeds - 1 tsp
  • Coriander Seeds - 1 tsp (crushed)
  • Black Peppercorns - 1/2 tsp
  • Cinnamon Stick - 1/2 inch
  • Cloves - 3-4 qty
  • Star Anise - 1/2 piece
  • Turmeric Powder - 1/4 tsp
  • Red Chili Powder - 1/4 tsp
  • Salt - to taste
  • Cilantro (fresh coriander) - 2 tbsp
  • Mint - 1 tbsp
  • Egg - 1 
  • Oil - 1/4 cup (for frying)

Looking for a delicious and authentic recipe to elevate your Ramadan Iftar spread? These Chicken Shami Kebabs are a must-try! Made with tender chicken, protein-packed chana dal, and a blend of aromatic spices, these flavorful patties are shallow-fried to golden perfection. 

Each bite delivers a burst of traditional flavors balanced with the freshness of cilantro and mint. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply craving a savory treat, these kebabs are sure to impress.

Watch our recipe video for step by step instructions on how to make Shami Kebab. We’ve included demonstrations and pro tips to help you out in the kitchen! For our Chicken Shami Kebab calories and nutrition information, see the recipe card below.

Instructions

How to make Chicken Shami Kebab:

1) In a large pot, add 1 lb cubed chicken, 1/2 cup chana dal (pre-soaked for 30 minutes), 1/2 cup chopped onion, 3-4 garlic cloves , 1 inch chopped ginger, 2 chopped green chilies, 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp coriander seeds, 1/2 tsp black peppercorns, 1/2 inch cinnamon stick, 3-4 cloves, 1/4 tsp turmeric powder, 1/4 tsp red chili powder, and salt to taste.

PRO TIP: Instead of adding individual spices, you can add 1 tsp of garam masala to substitute!

2) Add 1 cup of water to the pot and cook on medium heat until the water has completely evaporated and the chicken and lentils are fully cooked. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

PRO TIP: Stir occasionally to avoid sticking!

3) Once fully cooked, turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool. Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a food processor.

4) Add 2 tbsp fresh coriander and 1 tbsp mint leaves to the food processor. Grind into a thick, smooth paste that holds together easily when handled.

PRO TIP: Adjust the salt level to your preference at this point.

5) Wet your hands to avoid sticking and shape the mixture into small, flat patties (about 2 inches in diameter).

6) Beat one egg in a dish to prepare the kebab coating.

7) Heat 1/4 cup of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

8) Dip each kebab patty in beaten egg to coat, then immediately into the oil for frying.

PRO TIP: Make all of the patties before coating with egg to avoid getting soggy. Coat with egg right before frying!

9) Shallow fry the kebabs until they’re golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side.

10) Serve hot with mint chutney or lemon wedges on the side.

Ramadan Mubarak!

Looking for a delicious and authentic recipe to elevate your Ramadan Iftar spread? These Chicken Shami Kebabs are a must-try! Made with tender chicken, protein-packed chana dal, and a blend of aromatic spices, these flavorful patties are shallow-fried to golden perfection. 

Each bite delivers a burst of traditional flavors balanced with the freshness of cilantro and mint. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply craving a savory treat, these kebabs are sure to impress.

Watch our recipe video for step by step instructions on how to make Shami Kebab. We’ve included demonstrations and pro tips to help you out in the kitchen! For our Chicken Shami Kebab calories and nutrition information, see the recipe card below.

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