Keto Chicken Shami Kebab Recipe: Low-Carb Perfection

Keto Chicken Shami Kebab: A Flavorful Low-Carb Delight

A traditional South Asian treat, chicken shami kebabs are cherished for their flavourful and soft texture. Traditionally made with lentils, these kebabs are usually not keto-friendly. But what if we could tweak the recipe to make it low-carb without sacrificing taste? Enter Keto Chicken Shami Kebab—a perfect balance of spices, tender chicken, and wholesome ingredients, all while keeping the carbs in check.

In this post, I’ll share an easy, step-by-step recipe for making Keto Chicken Shami Kebabs at home. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack or a main dish, these kebabs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Keto Chicken Shami Kebab

• Packed with Flavor: A perfect blend of spices ensures every bite is a burst of taste.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Skipping the lentils and using keto-friendly binders makes these kebabs ideal for low-carb diets.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, wrap them in keto bread, or pair them with a salad for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients for Keto Chicken Shami Kebab

For the Kebabs:

• 500g chicken mince (ground chicken)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for spice)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp garlic paste
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 egg (as a binder)
• 2 tbsp almond flour (keto-friendly binder)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp ghee or olive oil for frying

For Garnish and Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Sliced onions
• Mint chutney (keto-friendly version)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken mince, onion, green chili, cilantro, ginger paste, garlic paste, and all the spices.
2. Add the egg and almond flour, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
3. Cover the bowl and let it rest in the fridge for 20–30 minutes. This facilitates the blending of flavours and facilitates the shaping of the mixture.

2. Shape the Kebabs

1. Take a small portion of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball.
2. Flatten the ball slightly to form a patty or disk shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

3. Cook the Kebabs

1. Heat ghee or olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the kebabs in the skillet, ensuring they don’t overlap.
3. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. To absorb extra oil, remove and transfer to a paper towel-lined platter.

Nutritional Information and Macro Breakdown

Per Serving (2 kebabs):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Net Carbs: 1g

Serving Size:

Makes about 10 kebabs; serving size is 2 kebabs.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Tips for Perfect Keto Chicken Shami Kebabs

1. Keep the Mixture Cold: Chilling the mixture helps the kebabs hold their shape during cooking.
2. Use a Non-Stick Pan: This prevents the kebabs from sticking or breaking apart.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
4. Adjust Spice Levels: Add more or less chili to suit your taste.

Keto Notes and Nutritional Benefits

Keto Chicken Shami Kebabs are a great option for anyone following a low-carb diet:

• Low-Carb: With only 1g net carbs per serving, these kebabs are perfect for keto macros.
• High in Protein: Chicken mince provides a substantial amount of protein, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety.
• Healthy Fats: Ghee or olive oil adds good fats to keep you energized and in ketosis.

Variations to Try

1. Cheesy Kebabs: Add shredded mozzarella to the mixture for a cheesy twist.
2. Herbed Kebabs: Mix in fresh mint or parsley for a refreshing flavor.
3. Zesty Kebabs: Squeeze lemon juice into the mixture for a tangy kick.
4. Air Fryer Option: Cook the kebabs in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Common FAQs

Q: Can I use turkey or beef instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef works well as a substitute, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

Q: Can I freeze Keto Chicken Shami Kebabs?
A: Yes! Shape the kebabs and freeze them on a tray before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Q: Are these kebabs spicy?
A: The level of spice depends on the green chili. Skip it for a mild version, or add more for extra heat.

Q: What can I serve with these kebabs?
A: Pair them with keto-friendly mint chutney, a side of cucumber salad, or wrap them in lettuce leaves for a low-carb meal.

Conclusion

Keto Chicken Shami Kebabs are proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to stick to a low-carb lifestyle. They’re easy to make, full of bold spices, and versatile enough for snacks, appetizers, or even a main course.

I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) these kebabs as much as I do. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, they’re sure to be a hit.

Please share your thoughts in the comments if you give this recipe a try!