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Delicious Chicken Kofta featured image showcases the dish's vibrant colors and enticing presentation.

Easy Chicken Kofta Recipe

This recipe offers a simplified yet delicious version of Chicken Kofta, featuring juicy, tender, and aromatic spiced ground chicken. These versatile flavor bombs are easier to make than you might think and can be served with rice, flatbread, or in a flavorful sauce for a complete meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped about 1/2 cup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or more, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • Olive oil, for cooking
  • Wooden or metal skewers optional

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Grater
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Skillet or Grill Pan or Oven
  • Wooden or Metal Skewers (optional)
  • Parchment Paper (optional, for oven baking)
  • Air fryer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the cilantro.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, cilantro, breadcrumbs, egg, and all the spices.
  3. Mix Thoroughly: Use your hands to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. The mixture should be uniform and well-mixed. Don't overmix.
  4. Shape the Kofta: Take a portion of the chicken mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and shape it into an oblong or cylindrical shape. If using skewers, gently press the Kofta onto the skewer.
  5. Cook the Kofta: Choose your cooking method.
  6. Skillet: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the Kofta for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
  7. Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the Kofta for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
  8. Oven: 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 cooked through.
  9. Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the Kofta in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden brown.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Chicken Kofta immediately with rice, naan bread, a dollop of yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Notes

Don't overmix the chicken mixture. Chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping can help the Kofta hold their shape. Moisten your hands with water or oil before shaping to prevent sticking. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Store cooked Kofta in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Variations: Add cayenne pepper for heat, grate zucchini or carrots for moisture, experiment with different herbs like mint or dill, add crumbled feta cheese, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, or serve with tzatziki, tahini, tomato, or yogurt-mint sauce.