Embark on a culinary adventure to the heart of the Middle East with a truly exquisite and wholesome dish: Chicken Kofta. This timeless classic, reimagined for the modern kitchen, offers a delightful blend of simplicity, vibrant flavors, and health-conscious ingredients. At its core, Chicken Kofta features succulent ground chicken expertly infused with a symphony of aromatic herbs and spices, then meticulously shaped into elegant skewers or convenient patties. Cooked to perfection through grilling, baking, or pan-frying, each bite promises a juicy, tender, and flavor-packed experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
Far more than just a meal, Chicken Kofta is a culinary celebration designed to impress and satisfy. Its captivating aroma, combined with the inherently juicy texture of ground chicken and an array of customization options, ensures it will leave your guests and family utterly delighted. This recipe stands out for its remarkable versatility, effortlessly adapting to various dietary preferences or ingredient substitutions. This makes it an indispensable addition to any home cook’s repertoire, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen. Best of all, this delectable dish comes together in under 40 minutes, proving that a truly tasty and healthy meal doesn’t have to demand hours of effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or simply when you crave something exotic yet comforting.
If you appreciate the ease and flavor of this recipe, be sure to explore more of our chicken favorites, including our Crispy Baked Panko Chicken Tenders, savory Oven Baked BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs, and kid-friendly Delicious Grilled Chicken Nuggets Recipe.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Chicken Kofta Recipe
Chicken Kofta isn’t just another dinner idea; it’s a culinary experience packed with benefits. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation:
- Unbeatably Healthy: Opting for lean ground chicken makes this kofta a healthier alternative to traditional lamb or beef versions, which often contain higher fat content. It’s a fantastic source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and keeping you feeling full and satisfied without excess calories.
- Incredibly Versatile: The beauty of chicken kofta lies in its adaptability. Serve it as an impressive main course alongside vibrant salads and rice, as a flavorful appetizer for parties, or tucked into warm pita bread for a quick and satisfying sandwich. Furthermore, you have the freedom to choose your preferred cooking method—whether it’s grilling for a smoky char, baking for a hands-off approach, or pan-frying for a quick and crispy exterior, each method yields delicious results.
- Quick and Effortless: Designed with convenience in mind, this recipe boasts minimal prep time and a quick cooking process. It’s an ideal solution for those hectic weeknights when time is short but you still want to serve a delicious, homemade meal. From start to finish, you can have a gourmet-tasting dish on your table in under 40 minutes.
- Easily Customizable: This recipe provides a wonderful canvas for your creativity. Feel free to adjust the blend of spices and herbs to perfectly match your taste preferences. You can also experiment with different ground proteins or incorporate finely diced vegetables into the mix, ensuring every batch is uniquely yours.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleaser: The mild yet flavorful profile of chicken kofta makes it a hit with both children and adults. Its familiar texture and savory taste ensure it’s a dish everyone at the table will enjoy.
- Excellent for Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Chicken kofta reheats beautifully, making it perfect for healthy lunches or quick dinners when you’re short on time.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chicken Kofta
Crafting exceptional Chicken Kofta begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the signature flavor and texture of this Middle Eastern delight:
- Ground Chicken: The star of our dish. We recommend using lean ground chicken (93% lean or higher) to keep the kofta moist and tender without being greasy. For a richer flavor, you could use a slightly higher fat content (e.g., 85%), but lean is excellent for a healthier option.
- Grated Onion: The secret to infusing deep onion flavor and essential moisture without any distracting large chunks. Grating a white onion ensures it seamlessly blends into the mixture, providing a subtle sweetness and helping to keep the kofta incredibly juicy. If you prefer a milder taste, a sweet onion works wonderfully.
- Bread Crumbs: These act as a crucial binder, helping the ground chicken mixture hold its shape, whether you’re forming skewers or patties. They also contribute to a tender texture, preventing the kofta from becoming too dense. Plain or panko breadcrumbs both work well.
- Aromatic Seasonings: This vibrant blend is what gives chicken kofta its distinctive Middle Eastern character.
- Fresh Italian Parsley: Provides a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor and a beautiful green fleck throughout the kofta.
- Paprika: Adds a warm, slightly sweet, and earthy note, along with a lovely reddish hue.
- Black Pepper: Essential for a pungent, spicy kick that enhances all the other flavors.
- Salt: Crucial for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken and spices.
- Ground Cumin: A cornerstone of Middle Eastern cuisine, cumin delivers a warm, earthy, and slightly pungent aroma.
- Crushed Chili Flakes: For those who appreciate a gentle warmth and a hint of spice. Adjust the quantity to your preferred heat level.
- Lime Wedges (to serve): A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the cooked kofta is an absolute game-changer. It brightens the flavors, adds a delightful tangy contrast, and enhances the overall eating experience.
Clever Ingredient Substitutions & Exciting Variations
One of the many joys of Chicken Kofta is how easily it can be adapted to your pantry, dietary needs, or creative whims. Don’t hesitate to experiment!
- Ground Protein Alternatives: While ground chicken is fantastic, feel free to swap it for other ground meats.
- Ground Turkey: A lean alternative that offers a similar nutritional profile to chicken, though it might result in a slightly darker color and firmer texture.
- Ground Beef or Lamb: For a more traditional kofta flavor, ground beef (lean) or lamb (for richness) are excellent choices. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed.
- Herb Variations: The fresh herbs are vital for flavor, but you can certainly play with them.
- Omit Parsley: If you’re not a fan of parsley, you can simply omit it, or substitute with other fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a different, equally delicious flavor profile.
- Add Cilantro or Mint: A tablespoon or two of finely chopped fresh cilantro or mint can bring a brighter, more exotic note to your kofta.
- Spice Enhancements: Elevate the spice blend to suit your palate.
- For More Heat: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- For Deeper Flavor: Incorporate a small amount of ground coriander, allspice, or a touch of cinnamon (a very common spice in Middle Eastern meat dishes) for added depth and complexity. A pinch of sumac can also add a delightful tang.
- Garlic: While not in the original list, adding 1-2 cloves of minced garlic or ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can significantly enhance the savory notes.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or an equal amount of almond flour.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrients and texture, finely grate a small zucchini or carrot into the mixture. Squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini before adding.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Chicken Kofta
Making delicious chicken kofta is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly flavored and cooked skewers:
Step 1: Gather and Combine Ingredients. Begin by placing the ground chicken into a spacious mixing bowl. Add the grated white onion, bread crumbs, freshly chopped Italian parsley, paprika, black pepper, salt, ground cumin, and crushed chili flakes. Ensure all ingredients are within easy reach.
Step 2: Mix Thoroughly. Using clean hands, gently but firmly mix all the ingredients together. Continue mixing until everything is uniformly combined and the mixture feels cohesive and slightly sticky. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the kofta tough.
Step 3: Shape the Koftas. Take a generous portion of the mixed chicken mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons per skewer, depending on desired size) and gently mold it around a skewer. Form it into an elongated log shape, pressing firmly enough so it adheres to the skewer but without compacting it too much. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken mixture and skewers. If you’re not using skewers, simply form them into small patties or meatballs.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection. Now it’s time to cook your koftas! Whether you choose to grill, bake, or pan-fry, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Typically, this takes about 6-8 minutes per side for grilling or pan-frying, and around 20 minutes total for baking (see detailed methods below). Cook until beautifully golden brown and thoroughly cooked through.
Once cooked, transfer your savory chicken kofta to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with fresh lime wedges on the side for that essential tangy finish. Enjoy your homemade Middle Eastern feast!
Chef’s Secrets for Flawless Chicken Kofta
Achieving restaurant-quality chicken kofta at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Mastering Moisture Control: The consistency of your kofta mixture is key. If it feels too wet and difficult to handle, gradually add a tablespoon or two of extra breadcrumbs or a pinch of flour. This will help bind the meat without making it too dry. Conversely, if it seems too dry, a tiny drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water can help.
- The Grated Onion Advantage: Always use a fine grater for the onion. This ensures that the onion juices are released and dispersed evenly throughout the meat mixture, providing moisture and flavor without any discernible large pieces of onion, which can affect the texture.
- Prevent Overcooking: Chicken kofta cooks relatively quickly due to the lean nature of ground chicken. Overcooking will lead to dry, tough kofta. Always cook until just done – typically reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here.
- Prepare Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to shaping the kofta. This crucial step prevents them from burning on the grill or in the oven, ensuring they remain sturdy throughout the cooking process.
- For a Smoother Texture: If you desire an exceptionally smooth and uniform kofta texture, consider using a food processor. Briefly pulse the ground chicken with the grated onion, and any additional minced garlic or parsley before incorporating the dry spices. Be very careful not to over-blend, as this can turn the chicken into a paste and negatively impact the texture.
- Chill for Easier Shaping: If you find the mixture too soft or sticky to shape, refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes (or even an hour) can make a significant difference. Chilling helps the fat solidify slightly and allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture, resulting in a firmer, easier-to-handle mixture.
- Oil Your Cooking Surface: Whether grilling, pan-frying, or baking, lightly oil your grill grates, skillet, or baking sheet. This prevents the kofta from sticking, allows for even browning, and helps achieve those desirable grill marks.
- Uniform Shaping: Try to make your kofta pieces as uniform in size and thickness as possible. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents some pieces from drying out while others are still cooking.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken Kofta
Grilled Chicken Kofta is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with an array of side dishes, ranging from fresh, crisp salads to hearty Middle Eastern staples. Here are some fantastic ideas to complete your meal:
- Creamy Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum): An absolute must-have! This intensely garlicky, fluffy white sauce perfectly complements the spiced chicken, adding a rich, pungent kick that is simply irresistible.
- Warm Pita Bread: Soft, fluffy pita bread is ideal for tearing and wrapping around your chicken kofta, creating a delicious sandwich, or for dipping into accompanying sauces and dips.
- Refreshing Lebanese Tabbouleh Salad: A vibrant and healthy salad made with finely chopped parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, mint, onion, and dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. Its fresh, zesty flavors provide a wonderful counterpoint to the savory kofta.
- Classic Lebanese Hummus: Creamy chickpea hummus, seasoned with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, adds a luscious, earthy richness and a delightful texture to the meal. It’s a staple for a reason!
- Fluffy Vermicelli Rice Pilaf: A fragrant and comforting side dish featuring rice cooked with toasted vermicelli noodles. Its light, buttery texture and subtle flavor provide an excellent base for the grilled kofta’s robust spices.
- Easy Roasted or Grilled Vegetables: Enhance your meal with a medley of seasonal vegetables grilled or roasted alongside the kofta. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and red onions become wonderfully sweet and tender when cooked, making them perfect companions.
- Fattoush Salad: Another popular Lebanese salad featuring mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes, and toasted pita bread pieces, all tossed in a tangy sumac dressing.
- Yogurt Dip: A simple, cooling yogurt dip (like tzatziki or a plain yogurt with mint and cucumber) can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced kofta.
Storing and Reheating Your Chicken Kofta
Proper storage ensures your delicious chicken kofta remains fresh and flavorful for future enjoyment. These recommendations will help you savor your meal for days to come:
Storing Cooked Kofta: Once the kofta has cooled completely, carefully remove them from the skewers (if used). Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them moist and prevents them from drying out.
Reheating Leftovers: To bring your kofta back to life, you have several excellent options:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place kofta on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat to maintain moisture.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Arrange the kofta on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying, and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.
- Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until heated through. This method often helps regain a slightly crispy exterior.
- Stove Top: Lightly oil a skillet and heat over medium-low. Add the kofta and gently warm, turning occasionally, until heated through.
Freezing Cooked Kofta: Chicken kofta freezes exceptionally well! Once cooked and completely cooled, remove the kofta from the skewers. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer the frozen kofta to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using one of the methods above.
Explore Different Cooking Methods for Your Kofta
While grilling provides an unbeatable smoky flavor, Chicken Kofta is incredibly adaptable and can be cooked using various methods, ensuring a delicious outcome no matter what kitchen equipment you have on hand:
- Air Fryer Method: For a quick, crispy, and hands-off approach, the air fryer is a fantastic choice.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush the kofta with a little olive oil to encourage browning.
- Arrange the kofta in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the kofta halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
- Oven Baking Method: If you prefer a hands-off approach or are cooking a larger batch, baking is ideal.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Place the kofta skewers or patties on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
- Stove Top Pan-Frying Method: Perfect for quick weeknight meals when you want a nice sear.
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the kofta into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
- Cook for a total of 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides and until they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Kofta
Here are answers to some common questions to help you master your chicken kofta recipe:
Absolutely! Kofta is incredibly versatile and can be made with various ground meats. While ground turkey provides a similar lean flavor and nutritional profile to chicken, you could also opt for traditional ground beef or lamb for a richer, more robust flavor. Just be aware that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the fat content of the meat.
Yes, definitely! If you don’t have skewers, or simply prefer not to use them, you can easily form the chicken mixture into small patties (like mini burgers), meatballs, or even small logs. These can then be cooked directly on the grill, in a skillet, or baked in the oven. The shape won’t affect the delicious flavor!
There are a few reasons why your mixture might be difficult to shape. The most common cause is that the mixture is too warm or too wet. Try chilling the chicken mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour; this helps it firm up and makes it much easier to handle. Ensure you’ve squeezed out any excess moisture from the grated onion. Also, avoid over-processing or over-mixing the meat, as this can make the texture too creamy and less cohesive.
To prevent your kofta from falling off skewers, several tips can help. First, ensure the meat mixture is well-chilled before shaping, as this makes it firmer. Second, don’t over-pack the skewers; apply firm, even pressure when molding the meat. If the mixture still seems too loose, a bit more breadcrumbs (1-2 tablespoons) can help with binding. Lastly, if available, consider using flat-surfaced metal skewers, as their design provides better grip and prevents the kofta from rotating or slipping during cooking.
The spice level of chicken kofta is easily adjustable! Our recipe uses crushed chili flakes for a gentle warmth, but you can increase or decrease this amount to suit your preference. For a completely mild version, omit the chili flakes. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken kofta mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine all the ingredients, mix well, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, shape the koftas and proceed with your chosen cooking method. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Discover More Delicious Skewer Recipes
If you love the convenience and flavor of cooking on skewers, you’re in for a treat! Here are more fantastic skewer recipes to add to your culinary adventures:
- Sweet & Savory Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- Tender & Flavorful Grilled Beef Kabobs
- Spicy & Aromatic Tandoori Chicken Skewers
- Quick & Easy Oven or Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- Juicy Halloumi & Vegetable Skewers (Coming Soon!)
- Lemon Herb Salmon Skewers (Coming Soon!)
Chicken Kofta stands as a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with thoughtful spices and preparation, can create an extraordinary meal. With its healthy profile, incredible flavor, and endless customization and pairing options, this recipe is destined to become a cherished, regular favorite in your family’s meal rotation. It’s a versatile dish that brings a taste of the Middle East right to your dinner table, perfect for any occasion.
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Chicken Kofta
Ingredients
-
1 lb ground chicken -
1 small white onion, grated -
¼ cup bread crumbs -
¼ cup fresh Italian parsley leaves -
1 teaspoon paprika -
1 teaspoon ground black pepper -
1 teaspoon salt -
½ teaspoon ground cumin -
½ teaspoon crushed chili flakes -
Lime wedges, to serve
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated white onion, bread crumbs, fresh Italian parsley, paprika, ground black pepper, salt, ground cumin, and crushed chili flakes. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is cohesive.
- Take a portion of the ground chicken mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons) and form it into an elongated log shape around a metal skewer. Press firmly to ensure it adheres well. Repeat with the remaining chicken mixture.
- Preheat a griddle, grill pan, or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface. Place the chicken kofta skewers on the heated surface and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken kofta to a serving plate. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with a fresh salad, warm pita bread, and lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
Notes
- Moisture control: If your mixture seems too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or flour to help bind it.
- Onions: Use a fine grater to grate the onion to ensure it blends well with the ground chicken, providing moisture and flavor without large chunks.
- Don’t Over Cook: Avoid overcooking the kofta to prevent it from drying out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before forming the kofta to prevent them from burning during cooking.
- Use a food processor: For a smoother texture, you can briefly pulse the ground chicken with the grated onion and parsley in a food processor before adding the spices. However, do not over-blend to avoid a pasty texture.
- Chill the mixture: Refrigerating the chicken mixture for 30 minutes can significantly help it firm up, making it much easier to shape around the skewers or into patties.
- For Patties/Meatballs: If not using skewers, simply form the mixture into small patties or meatballs and cook using any of the methods described.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 8g |
Protein: 21g |
Fat: 10g |
Saturated Fat: 3g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 4g |
Trans Fat: 0.1g |
Cholesterol: 98mg |
Sodium: 707mg |
Potassium: 679mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 643IU |
Vitamin C: 6mg |
Calcium: 35mg |
Iron: 2mg