In a small food processor, add peeled ginger, garlic cloves, shallot chunks (or onion), Serrano chili and cilantro. Pulse it until everything gets minced. Note: Don't puree it.
Add it to a large mixing bowl along with ground chicken and shredded carrots (if using). Add salt, garam masala, paprika, olive oil and lime juice. Mix well.
Roughly divide the mixture evenly into 8 portions. Use food grade gloves for a mess-free process of making kebabs.
Pour 2 tablespoons of oil in a small bowl. Wet your palms with oil, take one portion of the chicken mixture and roll it into an oblong or cylindrical shape by gently pressing it together.
Thread a skewer through the spiced chicken mix. Place the skewers on a plate and keep forming kebabs.
Preheat air fryer at 400°F for 2 minutes. Place the skewers in the fryer basket leaving ½-inch gap between them. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the kebabs turn light brown and cook through. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should read 165°F or higher.
Turn on the oven on "Hi Broil" mode and place the kebab skewers on a lined baking sheet. Place the sheet on the top rack. Broil the kebabs for 6-7 minutes on the first side. Flip them and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they cook through.
Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with the Cilantro chutney as an appetizer or wrap it up in a paratha. For a low-carb meal, pair with a garden salad.
Soak the bamboo skewers for 10 minutes, at least 30 minutes prior to broiling or grilling time. If you forget to do so, which I do most of the time, just wrap the exposed ends with some aluminum foil.
Ground chicken can be substituted with an equal quantity of ground lamb, turkey or beef.
To serve as an appetizer, pair with cilantro chutney, mint chutney or cilantro jalapeno sauce, and some sliced onions.
To make a meal, wrap it up in naan or serve with Saffron rice along with green chutney and onions. For a low carb meal option, serve with Cauliflower rice, chutney and a green salad.
Adding carrot is optional, however it keeps the kebabs moist, adds a subtle sweetness to them and also makes them healthier, with added vegetables. If you wish you can skip it or substitute it with grated zucchini.
Note: The nutrition facts below are my estimates. If you are following any diet plan, I recommend cross-checking with your preferred nutrition calculator.