Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsAnjappar Chettinad Indian RestaurantChicken Garlic Kabab Recipe

Chicken Garlic Kabab Recipe

Time1h 15m
Serves4

Make Chicken Garlic Kabab Recipe in just 1h 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Marinade

Method

Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare chicken

    Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and cut into 1 to 1 1/4-inch cubes for even cooking (about 24–30 pieces). Pat pieces dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make marinade

    In a large bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, turmeric (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth.

  3. 3

    Marinate chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4–6 hours; for best flavor, refrigerate up to 12 hours. If short on time, marinate at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.

Assembly & Cooking

  1. 4

    Soak skewers (if wooden)

    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes before cooking to prevent burning.

  2. 5

    Preheat grill or broiler

    Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C). Alternatively, preheat broiler or a grill pan over high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan.

  3. 6

    Thread chicken onto skewers

    Thread 3–4 pieces of chicken closely but not squashed onto each skewer so they form compact kababs that cook evenly. Leave a small space at each end for handling.

  4. 7

    Cook kababs

    Place skewers on the hot grill or grill pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning to get even char and internal color, for a total of 10–12 minutes depending on piece size. If using a broiler, place skewers 4–6 inches from the heat and broil 3–4 minutes per side. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the thickest piece — it should read 165°F (74°C).

  5. 8

    Finish and baste

    In the last minute of cooking, brush the kababs with the reserved olive oil or melted butter for shine and extra flavor. Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 3–5 minutes.

  6. 9

    Garnish and serve

    Transfer kababs to a platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. Serve hot with rice, flatbread, salad, or yogurt sauce as desired.

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