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Delicious Chicken Kofta, a flavorful Middle Eastern meatball dish, displayed as a featured image.

Easy Chicken Kofta

This Chicken Kofta recipe is incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer. The combination of spices creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds, and the chicken provides a lean protein source for a healthier meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken 90% lean
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Mixing spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Grater
  • Garlic press
  • Skillet or baking sheet or grill
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped cilantro and mint, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder (optional), and garam masala.
  2. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into an oval or cylindrical shape.
  5. Place the shaped kofta on a plate or baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (optional).
  6. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the kofta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or grill for 8-10 minutes.
  8. Serve the Chicken Kofta hot with your favorite sides and toppings.

Notes

Don't overmix the mixture to avoid tough kofta. Keep your hands moist when shaping the kofta. You can substitute ground turkey or lamb for the chicken. Leftover kofta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. Serve with pita bread, rice, salad, or wraps. Try serving with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or yogurt sauce.