Seekh kebabs are a culinary delight, and the chicken version offers a leaner, lighter alternative to its lamb counterpart. This recipe will guide you through creating juicy, flavorful chicken seekh kebabs that will impress your friends and family. We'll cover everything from marinating techniques to grilling tips, ensuring perfectly cooked kebabs every time.
What is Seekh Kebab?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's understand what seekh kebabs are. They are essentially minced meat (in this case, chicken) kebabs, traditionally made on skewers and grilled over an open flame. The "seekh" refers to the long, cylindrical shape of the kebab, formed by pressing the marinated meat onto the skewers. The key to a great seekh kebab lies in the marinade – it's what imparts the incredible flavor and keeps the meat tender.
Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Seekh Kebabs
This recipe makes approximately 12-15 kebabs. Adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Ground or finely minced. You can ask your butcher to mince it for you.
- 1 large onion: Finely minced or grated.
- 2 green chilies: Finely minced (adjust to your spice preference).
- 1 inch ginger: Grated.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced or grated.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro: Finely chopped.
- 1/4 cup fresh mint: Finely chopped.
- 2 tablespoons yogurt: Full-fat yogurt works best.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed.
- 1 teaspoon garam masala: A quintessential Indian spice blend.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder: Adds color and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder: Adjust to your spice level.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder: Earthy and warm.
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder: Aromatic and slightly citrusy.
- Salt to taste: Adjust according to your preference.
- Oil for grilling: Vegetable or canola oil.
- Wooden skewers: Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering the Art of Chicken Seekh Kebabs
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Prepare the Chicken: Ensure your chicken is finely minced. If using whole breasts, you can pulse them in a food processor until finely ground, but be careful not to over-process.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the minced chicken, minced onion, green chilies, ginger, garlic, cilantro, mint, yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix everything well, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Marinate the Chicken: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful kebabs.
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Form the Kebabs: Once marinated, thread the chicken mixture onto the soaked skewers, forming long, cylindrical kebabs. Don't pack them too tightly; leave some space for even cooking.
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Grill the Kebabs: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the skewers with oil. Grill the kebabs, turning frequently, for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the kebabs from the grill, and serve them hot with your favorite accompaniments, such as mint chutney, onion salad, and naan bread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long should I marinate the chicken for seekh kebabs?
The longer, the better! At least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight marinating will yield the most flavorful and tender results. The flavors have time to deeply penetrate the chicken, creating a more complex and delicious kebab.
Can I use bone-in chicken for seekh kebabs?
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for seekh kebabs, you can technically use bone-in chicken. However, you'll need to remove the bones and carefully mince the meat. The cooking time might also need to be adjusted.
What can I serve with chicken seekh kebabs?
Chicken seekh kebabs are incredibly versatile. They pair perfectly with various accompaniments such as mint chutney, tamarind chutney, raita (yogurt dip), naan bread, roti, and a simple salad.
Can I bake chicken seekh kebabs instead of grilling them?
Yes, you can bake chicken seekh kebabs. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. However, grilling provides that characteristic smoky flavor.
What are some variations for chicken seekh kebab recipe?
You can experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Adding a pinch of saffron, paprika, or even some finely chopped bell peppers can elevate the taste profile. You could also substitute yogurt with buttermilk or even a mixture of both.
This recipe provides a solid foundation for crafting delicious chicken seekh kebabs. Don't be afraid to experiment and personalize it to your taste preferences! Enjoy!
