Are you craving bold flavors and crispy bites to whet your appetite? Dive into our ultimate guide to 10 non veg starters that promise to elevate any dinner party or casual get-together. These Indian non veg starters draw from rich culinary traditions, blending spices, marinades, and frying techniques for irresistible results. Whether you’re a fan of succulent chicken or seafood delights, this curated best chicken starters list (and more) has something for every palate.
In India, starters set the tone for the feast—think tangy, spicy, and perfectly charred. From street-side chaat stalls in Mumbai to home kitchens in Delhi, 10 non veg starters like these are staples. We’ll break down recipes, prep times, and pro tips to make them restaurant-worthy at home. Ready to impress? Let’s fire up the kitchen!
Why Choose Indian Non Veg Starters for Your Next Gathering?
Indian non veg starters stand out for their explosion of flavors—think garam masala heat, yogurt tenderness, and fresh herbs. They’re versatile for occasions like Diwali parties, Eid feasts, or weekend barbecues. Health perks include high protein content, with many options that can be grilled or air-fried for lighter, calorie-conscious versions that still pack punch.
These 10 non veg starters are beginner-friendly yet gourmet-level. Each recipe serves 4 as appetizers, with 15-30 minute prep times. Stock up on staples like ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, and lemon. Pro tip: Marinate overnight for deeper flavors. Now, onto the best chicken starters list and beyond!
1. Chicken 65: The Fiery Classic from the Best Chicken Starters List
Kicking off our best chicken starters list, Chicken 65 is a South Indian sensation—crispy fried chicken chunks tossed in a curry leaf-chili sauce. Born in Chennai, it’s named for its 65 chili heat level (dial it down if needed!). This dish transforms simple chicken into a fiery explosion that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken, cubed
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Cornflour slurry for coating
- Curry leaves, green chilies for tempering
- Oil for deep frying
Method:
- Marinate chicken in yogurt, spices, and salt for 2 hours.
- Coat in cornflour batter and fry until golden (5-7 mins).
- Temper oil with curry leaves, garlic, and chilies; toss fried chicken in.
- Garnish with lemon wedges.
It’s around 250 calories per serving, loaded with 25g protein. Pair with onion rings. Variation: Air-fry for 20 mins at 200°C. This tops any 10 non veg starters roundup for its unbeatable crunch!
2. Fish Fingers: Crispy Coastal Delight
Golden, flaky fish fingers scream Indo-Western fusion. A staple in Indian non veg starters, they’re kid-friendly and ready in 20 minutes, offering a lighter seafood option.
Ingredients:
- 400g white fish fillets (like basa), cut into fingers
- 1 egg, breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp chaat masala
- Lemon juice, black pepper
Method:
- Marinate fish in lemon, salt, and pepper for 15 mins.
- Dip in egg, coat with breadcrumbs mixed with chaat masala.
- Shallow fry until crisp (4 mins per side).
- Serve with tartar sauce or mint chutney.
Nutritionally, it’s rich in omega-3s with about 200 calories and 22g protein per serving. Customize with prawns for a seafood twist in your 10 non veg starters menu.
3. Chicken Malai Tikka: Creamy Kebab Heaven
From the best chicken starters list, this North Indian gem uses cream and cheese for melt-in-mouth tenderness. Grill or tandoor it for that authentic smoke!
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup hung curd (Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp malai (fresh cream)
- 1 tbsp processed cheese, grated
- Kasuri methi, white pepper
Method:
- Mix marinade: curd, cream, cheese, spices.
- Coat chicken; refrigerate 4 hours.
- Skewer and grill 10-12 mins, basting with butter.
- Char lightly for smokiness.
At 200 calories with high protein, it’s a guilt-free pick among 10 non veg starters. Add green cardamom for extra aroma.
4. Prawn Balchao: Goan Spicy Bombs
Pickled prawns with fiery Balchao masala make these Indian non veg starters addictive. You can even preserve them for later snacking!
Ingredients:
- 300g prawns, cleaned
- 2 tbsp Balchao paste (or make with red chilies, vinegar)
- Onion, garlic, fennel seeds
Method:
- Sauté onions, add paste and prawns; cook 5 mins.
- Simmer with vinegar for pickle-like tang.
- Cool and store; serve chilled or fried.
High spice level—perfect for beer pairings in your 10 non veg starters spread.
5. Mutton Seekh Kebabs: Smoky Minced Magic
Ground mutton wrapped around skewers—pure Mughlai bliss. Essential in any 10 non veg starters collection for its robust flavor.
Ingredients:
- 400g minced mutton
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Ginger-garlic, garam masala, coriander
- Skewers
Method:
- Mix mince with spices, onions; knead well.
- Mold onto skewers; grill 10 mins, turning.
- Baste with ghee.
Around 220 calories and protein-packed. Vegetarian swap: Use paneer.
6. Chicken Lollipop: Drumstick Party Pleasers
Twisted chicken wings from the best chicken starters list—fragrant, fun, and finger-licking!
Ingredients:
- 12 chicken wings, frenched
- 2 tbsp schezwan sauce
- Soy, garlic, cornflour
Method:
- Marinate in sauces overnight.
- Batter and deep-fry till red-crisp.
- Toss in schezwan glaze.
Just 180 calories—kids love these 10 non veg starters!
7. Egg Devil: Bengali Street-Style Surprise
Boiled eggs stuffed with spiced mince, breaded and fried. A hidden gem in Indian non veg starters with contrasting textures.
Ingredients:
- 6 boiled eggs, halved
- 200g minced chicken/lamb
- Breadcrumbs, egg wash
- Mustard oil
Method:
- Cook spiced mince; stuff egg halves.
- Coat in breadcrumbs; fry golden.
- Serve with kasundi (mustard sauce).
Crunchy outside, juicy inside—about 200 calories.
8. Chicken Hariyali Kebab: Green Goddess
Herb-marinated chicken from the best chicken starters list. Low-cal, vibrant, and fresh!
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken
- Mint-coriander paste, spinach puree
- Lemon, green chilies
Method:
- Blend greens into marinade with yogurt.
- Marinate 3 hours; grill skewers.
- Char for aroma.
Antioxidant-rich addition to 10 non veg starters.
9. Crispy Baby Potato Prawns: Surf ‘n Turf Bites
Prawns stuffed in baby potatoes—innovative Indian non veg starters with creative flair.
Ingredients:
- 12 baby potatoes, hollowed
- 200g minced prawns
- Spices, cheese
Method:
- Boil potatoes; stuff with spiced prawns.
- Bake or fry till crisp.
- Garnish with sev.
Unique at 150 calories.
10. Reshmi Kebab: Silky Chicken Wraps
Closing our 10 non veg starters, these cream-kissed kebabs are royally indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 400g minced chicken
- Cashew paste, cream
- Cardamom, saffron
Method:
- Marinate mince overnight.
- Shape flat; pan-fry or tandoor.
- Serve rolled in rumali roti.
Elegant at 230 calories.
Pairing Tips, Nutritional Highlights, and Variations
Mix and match: Pair the best chicken starters list with seafood for balance. Drinks like Kingfisher beer or lassi complement perfectly. Health hacks include air-frying to cut oil and boost nutrition.
Nutritional Highlights (per serving):
- Chicken 65: 250 cal, 25g protein, high spice.
- Fish Fingers: 200 cal, 22g protein, omega-3 rich.
- Chicken Malai Tikka: 200 cal, tender protein.
- Others range 150-230 cal, all high in lean protein for satiety.
Storage tip: Refrigerate marinated meats up to 24 hours; these 10 non veg starters freeze well (pre-fry). Regional twists: Add coconut for South Indian flair.
FAQs for Your 10 Non Veg Starters
1. Are these 10 non veg starters kid-friendly?
Absolutely—reduce chilies in Chicken 65 or Lollipop for milder heat, making them perfect family appetizers.
2. Can I make Indian non veg starters vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken/mutton with paneer or soya chunks for the best chicken starters list equivalents, retaining spice profiles.
3. What’s the best way to cook these for weight loss?
Grill or air-fry instead of deep-frying; e.g., Hariyali Kebab drops to under 150 cal per serving.
4. How long do these 10 non veg starters stay fresh?
Marinated raw: 24 hours in the fridge. Fried: Consume within 2 hours; refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days and reheat crisply.
5. Which from the best chicken starters list is quickest?
Chicken Lollipop—marinate overnight, fry in 10 mins for an instant party wow-factor.
6. Are prawns safe in Prawn Balchao for beginners?
Yes, use fresh deveined prawns; cook thoroughly to avoid allergies—ideal intro to Indian non veg starters.
7. Can I batch-cook these 10 non veg starters?
Definitely—double recipes, freeze marinated portions (except eggs/fish), thaw and cook fresh for events.
8. What dips pair with these Indian non veg starters?
Mint chutney for greens, schezwan for spice, yogurt dip for creaminess—customize per recipe!
Final Thoughts: Master These 10 Non Veg Starters Today
Your go-to 10 non veg starters for unforgettable meals are now at your fingertips—from the sizzling stars of the best chicken starters list like fiery Chicken 65 and creamy Malai Tikka, to coastal gems like Fish Fingers and innovative Prawn Balchao.
These Indian non veg starters don’t just deliver spice, crunch, and joy; they weave stories of India’s diverse kitchens into every bite, turning ordinary gatherings into festive feasts that linger in memory.
Imagine the oohs and aahs as guests pop crispy Chicken Lollipops or savor smoky Mutton Seekh Kebabs—it’s more than food; it’s a flavor journey sparking conversations and cravings for seconds. Whether hosting a lively house party in Guwahati, a family iftar, or a cozy date night, these recipes adapt effortlessly, proving that great starters bridge cultures and occasions.
Ready to level up? Start with one from the best chicken starters list this weekend, experiment boldly—swap spices for regional twists, grill for health, or scale up for crowds. Share your triumphs (or hilarious kitchen mishaps!) in the comments below; we love hearing how Chicken Hariyali became your signature or how Egg Devils stole the show.