Air Fryer Chicken Seekh Kebab
If you’re craving juicy, smoky, and flavorful kebabs without firing up the grill, these Air Fryer Chicken Seekh Kebabs are the perfect solution. Made with lean ground chicken, fresh herbs, aromatic spices, garlic, ginger, and onions, these kebabs are shaped onto skewers and cooked in the air fryer until beautifully browned and tender.Traditionally cooked over charcoal, seekh kebabs are known for their smoky flavor and succulent texture. This air fryer version delivers similar results with far less oil, making it a healthier choice that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, barbecues, or festive gatherings.Serve these protein-packed kebabs with mint yogurt chutney, fresh salad, naan, or fragrant basmati rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
High in protein
Made with lean ground chicken
Crispy outside and juicy inside
Quick and easy to prepare
Healthier than deep-fried or pan-fried kebabs
Perfect for meal prep
Family-friendly
Naturally gluten-free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 (8 seekh kebabs)
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Chicken Seekh Kebabs
1½ pounds (680 g) lean ground chicken
1 small onion, very finely grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
2 tablespoons chickpea flour (besan), lightly roasted
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional, for extra binding)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Kashmiri chili powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
For Cooking
Olive oil cooking spray
For Garnish
Fresh cilantro
Lemon wedges
Sliced onions
Chaat masala (optional)
For the Mint Yogurt Chutney
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons fresh mint
2 tablespoons cilantro
1 green chili (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder
Salt to taste
Blend until smooth and refrigerate until serving.
Equipment
Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Metal or soaked wooden skewers (optional)
Meat thermometer
Tongs
Instructions
Prepare the Onion
Grate the onion finely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Removing the moisture helps the kebabs hold their shape.
Make the Kebab Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Ground chicken
Grated onion
Cilantro
Mint
Green chilies
Ginger-garlic paste
Roasted chickpea flour
Breadcrumbs (if using)
Ground cumin
Ground coriander
Paprika
Kashmiri chili powder
Garam masala
Turmeric
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Mix thoroughly with clean hands for 3–4 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly sticky.
Avoid overmixing.
Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
This allows the flavors to develop and makes shaping easier.
Shape the Seekh Kebabs
Lightly oil your hands.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions.
Shape each portion into a long sausage around a skewer or form into log-shaped kebabs without skewers.
Press gently to ensure they are compact and evenly shaped.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
Air Fry the Kebabs
Arrange the kebabs in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.
For lightly charred edges, increase the temperature to 400°F (205°C) during the final 2 minutes.
The kebabs are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve
Allow the kebabs to rest for 3–5 minutes.
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a light dusting of chaat masala if desired.
Serve with lemon wedges and mint yogurt chutney.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Seekh Kebabs pair perfectly with:
Garlic naan
Whole wheat pita bread
Basmati rice
Jeera rice
Fresh cucumber salad
Onion rings
Mint yogurt chutney
Tamarind chutney
Hummus
Grilled vegetables
For a low-carb option, serve over a fresh salad or cauliflower rice.
Storage
Allow the kebabs to cool completely.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked kebabs for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Air Fryer
Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.
Oven
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Microwave
Heat for 1–2 minutes, although the exterior may lose some crispness.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Seekh Kebabs
Remove excess moisture from the onion to prevent the kebabs from falling apart.
Roasted chickpea flour helps bind the mixture while adding a subtle nutty flavor.
Chill the mixture before shaping for easier handling.
Wet or lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest the kebabs before serving to keep them juicy.
Delicious Variations
Cheese-Stuffed Seekh Kebabs
Wrap the chicken mixture around small cubes of mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a gooey center.
Spicy Seekh Kebabs
Add extra green chilies, crushed red pepper flakes, or chili paste.
Herb Seekh Kebabs
Increase the amount of cilantro, mint, and parsley for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs
Season with oregano, smoked paprika, garlic, parsley, and crumbled feta cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast mince?
Yes. Ground chicken breast is lean and works well, though adding a teaspoon of olive oil helps keep the kebabs moist.
Why are my seekh kebabs falling apart?
This usually happens if the mixture contains too much moisture. Be sure to squeeze the grated onion well and chill the mixture before shaping.
Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Yes. Shape the kebabs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I freeze uncooked kebabs?
Absolutely. Freeze them on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the cooking time.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 265
Protein: 33 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Chicken Seekh Kebabs are a healthy, protein-rich take on a beloved classic. Tender, juicy, and infused with fragrant herbs and warm spices, they deliver authentic barbecue-inspired flavor without the need for a grill. The air fryer creates lightly charred edges while keeping the inside moist and flavorful, making these kebabs perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. Serve them with mint yogurt chutney, warm naan, and a fresh salad for a meal that’s both wholesome and incredibly satisfying.