15 Must-Try Pakistani Kebab Recipes for Grilling Perfection

If you’re craving some mouthwatering Pakistani kebabs, you’ve come to the right place! These recipes are packed with bold flavors and spices, making them perfect for any occasion.

Whether you want to grill them up at a barbecue or cook them in your kitchen, these kebab recipes will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family.

Bihari Kebabs with Spices

Bihari Kebabs are a delicious treat that pack a punch with their rich spices and tender meat. This recipe brings a smoky flavor that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a weekend gathering or a cozy family dinner, these kebabs are simple to make and can be enjoyed with naan, paratha, or even on their own!

The secret to these kebabs lies in a marinade that combines various spices, giving it a distinctive taste that represents the essence of Pakistani cuisine. With minimal prep time and a quick cook, you’ll have a flavorful dish in no time!

Ingredients

• 500 grams beef or chicken, cut into cubes
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, cumin powder, oil, and salt.
2. Add the Meat: Add the cubed meat to the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Skewer the Meat: Thread the marinated meat onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Cook the Kebabs: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill the kebabs for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with naan or your favorite dipping sauces.

Tandoori Chicken Kebabs with Vegetables

Tandoori Chicken Kebabs with Vegetables are a delightful and vibrant dish that perfectly balances juicy chicken marinated in spices with colorful veggies. The smoky flavor from the grill combined with the aromatic spices creates a delicious experience that’s both satisfying and refreshing. This recipe is simple to make, making it great for a casual gathering or a family dinner.

The marinated chicken is tender and bursting with flavor, while the grilled vegetables add a nice crunch and sweetness. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing taste. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• Salt, to taste
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, yellow) cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, garlic paste, ginger paste, and salt. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
3. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables alternately onto the skewers.
4. Grill the Kebabs: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with naan or rice and your favorite dipping sauce.

Malai Boti Kebabs with Creamy Sauce

Malai Boti Kebabs are a popular Pakistani dish known for their tender, juicy pieces of marinated chicken. The marinade is rich and creamy, made with yogurt and spices, giving the kebabs a delightful flavor. When grilled to perfection, these kebabs are bursting with taste and are a real crowd-pleaser.

Making Malai Boti Kebabs is straightforward and doesn’t require complicated techniques. The combination of spices and the creamy sauce pairs perfectly, making them great for any gathering or family dinner.

Ingredients

• 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into cubes
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water)
• 2 tablespoons oil (for grilling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, cumin powder, and salt.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Skewer the Chicken: After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers.
4. Grill the Kebabs: Preheat a grill or grill pan. Brush with oil and grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve hot with a creamy sauce made from yogurt, mint, and spices, along with naan or rice.

Seekh Kebabs with Mint Chutney

Seekh Kebabs are a popular Pakistani dish that is bursting with flavor. These skewered delights are made from minced meat mixed with aromatic spices, giving them a rich and savory taste. They’re perfect for grilling and can easily be made at home, making them a great option for a casual get-together or a family meal.

Served with a refreshing mint chutney, Seekh Kebabs are not just tasty but also quite simple to prepare. The combination of spiced meat with the coolness of mint creates an irresistible bite that everyone will love. Let’s get started on making these delicious kebabs!

Ingredients

• 500 grams minced meat (beef or lamb)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
• Oil for grilling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine minced meat, chopped onion, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, coriander leaves, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.
2. Shape the Kebabs: Take a portion of the mixture and mold it around the skewer, flattening it slightly to form kebabs. Repeat until all mixture is used.
3. Grill the Kebabs: Preheat your grill or a skillet on medium heat. Brush the kebabs with oil and grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
4. Serve: Once cooked, serve the kebabs hot with mint chutney on the side for dipping.

Kofta Kebabs with Spicy Sauce

Kofta kebabs are a mouthwatering delight, often enjoyed in Pakistani cuisine. These juicy meatballs are packed with spices and herbs, giving them an irresistible flavor that’s both savory and slightly spicy. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, and surprisingly easy to prepare!

Once cooked, these kebabs are tossed in a spicy sauce that enhances their taste, making them even more enjoyable. The combination of spices creates a warm and inviting dish that pairs well with rice or naan. You’ll find that making kofta kebabs is simple, and the end result is always satisfying!

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• Oil for frying
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, ginger paste, green chilies, cilantro, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, salt, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Shape the Kebabs: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into oval or round kebabs. Set aside on a plate.
3. Fry the Kebabs: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the kebabs until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add tomato sauce, red chili powder, and lemon juice. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
5. Combine: Add the cooked kebabs to the sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Let them simmer together for another 5 minutes.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Peshawari Kabuli Kebabs with Nuts

Peshawari Kabuli Kebabs are a delightful blend of flavors, bringing a taste of Pakistan to your dining table. These kebabs are juicy and tender, infused with aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness from the nuts. They are not overly complicated to make, making them a great choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

The unique combination of ground meat and a variety of nuts, such as almonds and pistachios, creates a rich texture and flavor profile that is hard to resist. Pair these kebabs with some fragrant rice or a fresh salad, and you have a meal that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 500g ground meat (beef or lamb)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds and pistachios)
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil (for grilling)
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, chopped onions, cilantro, nuts, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Shape the mixture into long kebabs around the skewers, ensuring they are evenly packed.
3. Heat oil on a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the kebabs for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through.
4. Once cooked, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. Serve hot with rice or salad, garnished with additional nuts and cilantro, if desired.

Reshmi Kebabs with Yogurt Dip

Reshmi Kebabs are a perfect blend of flavors, bringing together tender chicken marinated in spices and yogurt. These kebabs are known for their smooth texture and mild taste, making them a favorite among kebab lovers. They are simple to make, and the result is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main dish.

Pair these kebabs with a refreshing yogurt dip for a cool contrast to the warm, savory meat. This dish is great for gatherings, family dinners, or even a casual night in. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into cubes
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken cubes and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat. Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and thread the cubes onto the soaked skewers.
3. Cook the Kebabs: Brush the kebabs with melted butter and place them on the grill or in the oven. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Make the Yogurt Dip: While the kebabs are cooking, mix yogurt with a pinch of salt, some chopped coriander leaves, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a quick dip.
5. Serve: Once done, serve the reshmi kebabs hot with the yogurt dip on the side and enjoy your meal!

Chapli Kebabs with Sliced Onions

Chapli kebabs are a flavorful and aromatic dish hailing from the Pashtun region of Pakistan. These kebabs are made with minced meat, usually beef or lamb, mixed with spices and herbs, delivering a delightful balance of taste and texture. They are typically crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside, making them a favorite among kebab lovers.

This recipe is quite straightforward, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. With a short list of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that pairs wonderfully with sliced onions and fresh naan or rice.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, roasted and ground
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 egg
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornflour
• Oil, for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, green chilies, coriander, cumin, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala, egg, cornflour, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into flat, round patties.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the pan and fry until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
4. Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve hot with sliced onions on the side and enjoy!

Boti Kebabs with Lemon Wedges

Boti Kebabs are a delightful Pakistani dish that combines tender marinated meat with a smoky grill flavor. The kebabs are juicy, spiced just right, and served with zesty lemon wedges that enhance their taste. They’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, and the best part is that they’re easy to whip up!

These kebabs are marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, making them incredibly flavorful. Grilling them allows the meat to caramelize beautifully while keeping it succulent. Serve with some fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra kick of freshness that balances the spices perfectly.

Shami Kebabs with Chutney

Shami Kebabs are a delightful treat that showcases the rich flavors of Pakistani cuisine. These kebabs are made from a blend of minced meat, lentils, and spices, resulting in a tender and flavorful bite. The kebabs are usually shallow-fried, giving them a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Perfect for gatherings or a tasty snack, they pair wonderfully with chutney for an added zing.

This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginners. The process of mixing ingredients and frying is quite simple, allowing you to enjoy these mouthwatering kebabs in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 cup minced beef or chicken
• 1/2 cup split chickpeas (chana dal)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for binding)
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Soak the split chickpeas in water for a few hours, then drain.
2. In a pot, combine the minced meat, soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin seeds, and salt. Add enough water to cover the mixture and cook until the meat and lentils are tender.
3. Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then blend the mixture into a smooth paste.
4. Add the fresh coriander and beaten egg to the paste. Mix well and form into small patties.
5. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat and fry the patties until golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve hot with chutney and enjoy!

Lamb Kebabs with Mediterranean Spices

Lamb kebabs are a delightful combination of tender meat and bold spices, making them a superb choice for any meal. The Mediterranean spices add a unique twist, enhancing the natural flavors of the lamb while providing a wonderful aroma. This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create succulent kebabs that are perfect for grilling or broiling. Pair them with a fresh salad or warm pita for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, parsley, mint, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small patties or molds around the skewers, ensuring they stick well for grilling.
3. Preheat the grill or broiler. If grilling, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your choice of sides or sauces.

Spicy Fish Kebabs with Cilantro

Spicy fish kebabs are a delightful twist on traditional kebabs, bringing a burst of flavor and zest to the table. Marinated in a blend of spices and fresh herbs, these kebabs are not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

The combination of tender fish and vibrant cilantro creates a refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of lemon. These kebabs are a surefire way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 500 grams firm fish fillets (like salmon or cod)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, red chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
2. Marinate the Fish: Cut the fish fillets into cubes and add them to the marinade. Toss gently to coat all pieces. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Skewer the Fish: Thread the marinated fish onto skewers, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Kebabs: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish. Enjoy your delicious spicy fish kebabs!

Mutton Kebabs with Garlic Sauce

Mutton kebabs are a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Pakistan to your table. These tender pieces of marinated meat are infused with spices, making each bite a delightful experience. Paired with a creamy garlic sauce, they offer a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. Plus, this recipe is straightforward, making it a great choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners.

The juicy mutton, combined with the refreshing garlic sauce, creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also perfect for gatherings. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these kebabs will be a hit at any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb mutton, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Mutton: In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, red chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well and add the mutton cubes, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill or oven. Take the marinated mutton and thread the pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Cook the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill or in the oven. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the mutton is cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the kebabs from the skewers and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with garlic sauce on the side.

Vegetable Kebabs with Grilled Corn

Vegetable kebabs with grilled corn are a delightful and colorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering. These kebabs are packed with fresh veggies that are not only good for you but also bursting with flavor. The sweetness from the grilled corn contrasts beautifully with the savory spices of the kebabs, making each bite a treat.

This recipe is easy to whip up, even for those who may not be seasoned cooks. Just chop up some veggies, marinate them, and let the grill do the magic. It’s a fun way to enjoy a healthy meal, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), chopped
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, halved
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 ear of corn, husked
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Vegetables: Add the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes to the marinade. Toss well and let it sit for 30 minutes.
3. Skewer the Vegetables: Thread the marinated vegetables onto skewers, alternating between different types for a colorful presentation.
4. Grill the Corn: Lightly brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt. Grill it alongside the vegetable skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the veggies are tender and the corn is golden brown.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers and corn from the grill. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Chicken Karahi Kebabs with Naan

Chicken Karahi Kebabs are a delightful twist on traditional kebabs. Marinated in a mix of spices and yogurt, these kebabs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for grilling. The tender chicken, infused with aromatic spices, is a hit at gatherings and makes for a great weeknight dinner.

Accompanying these kebabs with naan adds a lovely touch to the meal. The softness of the naan complements the spiciness of the kebabs, making every bite a treat. Plus, the recipe is simple and quick to follow, ensuring that even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish with ease.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Fresh coriander, for garnish
• Naan, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, salt, and lemon juice. Add the chicken cubes and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat the grill. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has charred marks.
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the skewers and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with naan on the side.