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Easy Chicken Kofta Dinner

This recipe delivers juicy and flavorful chicken kofta, seasoned with aromatic spices and herbs, offering a taste of the Mediterranean. Quick and easy to prepare, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner and sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs ground chicken
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pita bread or naan, for serving
  • Tzatziki sauce, for serving
  • Hummus, for serving
  • Chopped tomatoes, for serving
  • Cucumber, sliced, for serving
  • Red onion, thinly sliced, for serving
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Garlic press
  • Skillet or Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Grill (optional)
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  2. Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  3. Wet your hands slightly with water to prevent the mixture from sticking.
  4. Take a small amount of the chicken mixture (about 2-3 tablespoons) and shape it into an oblong or cylindrical shape, about 3-4 inches long. You can also make them into small patties.
  5. Place the formed kofta on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Repeat until all the chicken mixture is used.
  7. To pan-fry: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the kofta in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the kofta are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the kofta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the kofta are cooked through and lightly browned.
  9. To grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the kofta on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
  10. Serve the Chicken Kofta warm with pita bread or naan, tzatziki sauce, hummus, chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and lemon wedges.

Notes

For kofta that are falling apart, add more breadcrumbs or chill the mixture before shaping. To prevent dry kofta, avoid overcooking and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If kofta are bland, adjust seasonings before shaping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven (350°F/175°C for 10-15 minutes), or skillet.