Introduction
Creamy Chicken Kabab is a rich, juicy, and incredibly flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, cream, and cheese to create melt-in-your-mouth kababs. Popular across South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, these kababs are known for their creamy texture and smoky aroma. Whether grilled over charcoal, cooked in the oven, or pan-fried, they are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, barbecues, or special occasions.
The combination of cream, yogurt, and cheese keeps the chicken moist while allowing the spices to infuse every bite with incredible flavor. These kababs pair beautifully with naan, pita bread, rice, salads, and mint chutney.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes
- 1 cup thick Greek yogurt
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
Spices
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornflour
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Wooden or metal skewers
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grill, barbecue, oven, air fryer, or grill pan
- Skewers
- Basting brush
- Tongs
- Serving platter
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 4–8 hours (overnight preferred)
- Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: About 5 hours
- Servings: 4–6
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Wash and pat dry the chicken thoroughly. Cut into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl combine:
- Greek yogurt
- Heavy cream
- Cream cheese
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Garlic paste
- Ginger paste
- Lemon juice
- Melted butter
- Fresh herbs
- Green chilies
- All spices
- Cornflour
Mix everything until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Marinate
Add chicken pieces to the marinade.
Mix until every piece is completely coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Assemble
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
Step 5: Cook
Charcoal Grill
Cook over medium-high heat for 12–15 minutes.
Turn every few minutes until lightly charred.
Brush with butter while grilling.
Oven
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes.
Broil for 3–5 minutes for a beautiful golden finish.
Air Fryer
Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Flip halfway through.
Grill Pan
Cook over medium heat for 15–18 minutes.
Turn frequently for even cooking.
Different Cooking Methods
Traditional Charcoal Method
Produces the authentic smoky restaurant flavor.
Oven-Baked Method
Healthier with minimal oil while still juicy.
Air Fryer Method
Quick, convenient, and uses less fat.
Pan-Grilled Method
Perfect for everyday home cooking without outdoor equipment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Creamy Chicken Kababs with:
- Garlic naan
- Butter naan
- Pita bread
- Jeera rice
- Saffron rice
- Mint yogurt chutney