Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly spiced, grilled chicken kofta is a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish made with minced chicken, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional kofta, yet still packed with bold flavors and a satisfying smoky char from the grill.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled chicken kofta is easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors. It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and gatherings. The kofta stays tender and juicy thanks to the combination of herbs and spices, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like rice, salads, or flatbread. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to red meat versions while still delivering rich taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
500 grams ground chicken
1 small onion, finely grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Add the cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, salt, and turmeric. Mix again until the spices are fully incorporated into the mixture.
Pour in the olive oil and lemon juice, then mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes slightly sticky and holds together.
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors develop and makes shaping easier.
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into elongated sausage-like forms around skewers or shape them by hand.
Place the kofta on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and nicely browned on all sides.
Remove from the grill and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Total time: approximately 57 minutes
Variations
You can swap ground chicken with ground turkey for a slightly different flavor while keeping it lean.
Add finely chopped green chili or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Mix in a tablespoon of breadcrumbs if you prefer a slightly firmer texture.
For a richer taste, include a tablespoon of plain yogurt in the mixture.
You can cook the kofta in a grill pan or oven if an outdoor grill is not available.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the kofta in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through.
You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked kofta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I bake chicken kofta instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
How do I keep the kofta from falling apart?
Make sure to chill the mixture before shaping and avoid adding too much moisture.
Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated.
What can I serve with chicken kofta?
It pairs well with rice, flatbread, salads, or yogurt-based sauces.
Can I freeze uncooked kofta?
Yes, shape them first, then freeze. Cook directly from frozen or thaw before grilling.
Is chicken kofta healthy?
It is a lean protein option and lower in fat compared to traditional beef or lamb kofta.
Can I cook this on a stovetop?
Yes, use a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook until fully done.
Why is my kofta dry?
Overcooking or using very lean chicken without enough fat or moisture can cause dryness.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended, but you can substitute with smaller amounts of dried herbs.
How do I know when the kofta is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 75°C, and the juices should run clear.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken kofta is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its aromatic spices, juicy texture, and versatility, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked indoors, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.
Juicy grilled chicken kofta made with fresh herbs and warm spices, offering a flavorful and lighter take on a classic Middle Eastern dish. Perfectly charred and tender, ideal for serving with flatbread or rice.
Ingredients
500 grams ground chicken
1 small onion, finely grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Mix well.
Add cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, salt, and turmeric. Mix until evenly combined.
Add olive oil and lemon juice, mixing until the mixture becomes slightly sticky.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat grill to medium heat.
Shape the mixture into elongated kofta around skewers or by hand.
Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and browned.
Remove from grill and serve warm.
Notes
Ground turkey can be used instead of chicken.
Add chili flakes or green chili for heat.
Mix in breadcrumbs for a firmer texture.
Add a spoon of yogurt for extra moisture.
Can be cooked in a grill pan or oven if needed.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
