Juicy, spiced chicken kofta is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, and warm spices. It’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, and pairs beautifully with rice, flatbread, or a refreshing yogurt sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken kofta recipe is simple, versatile, and packed with bold flavors. It uses everyday ingredients but delivers restaurant-quality results. The kofta stays tender and juicy thanks to the right balance of herbs and spices, and it can be cooked in multiple ways depending on what you have available. It’s also a healthier alternative to traditional beef or lamb kofta while still being incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
1 small onion, finely grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Mix gently until just combined.
Add the cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice. Mix everything together until evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors develop and makes shaping easier.
Once chilled, divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into oval or sausage-like forms around skewers or by hand.
To cook on the stovetop, heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the kofta for about 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked through and nicely browned.
To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
To grill, cook over medium heat for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Serve hot with rice, pita bread, or a yogurt-based sauce.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour
Variations
You can swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a slightly different flavor while keeping it lean. Adding a tablespoon of breadcrumbs can help bind the mixture if it feels too soft. For a spicier version, include chili flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper. You can also add a pinch of allspice for a deeper, warmer flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze uncooked or cooked kofta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or cooking.
FAQs
Can I make chicken kofta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the kofta a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Why is my kofta mixture too soft?
Ground chicken has a high moisture content. Chilling the mixture or adding a small amount of breadcrumbs can help firm it up.
Can I cook kofta without skewers?
Absolutely. You can shape them by hand into small logs or patties and cook them in a pan or oven.
How do I know when kofta is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the outside should be golden brown.
Can I freeze chicken kofta?
Yes, both cooked and uncooked kofta freeze well. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags.
What can I serve with chicken kofta?
It pairs well with rice, salad, flatbread, hummus, or yogurt sauce.
Can I grill these kofta?
Yes, grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended for best flavor, but you can substitute dried herbs in smaller amounts if needed.
How do I keep kofta from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is well combined and chilled before shaping. Avoid overhandling while cooking.
Is chicken kofta healthy?
It’s a lean protein option and can be part of a balanced meal, especially when paired with vegetables and whole grains.
Conclusion
Chicken kofta is a delicious and easy dish that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-fried, it’s a versatile recipe that works for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With simple ingredients and plenty of room for customization, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Juicy and flavorful chicken kofta made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, and warm spices. This versatile Middle Eastern-inspired dish is perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
1 small onion, finely grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
In a bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Mix gently.
Add cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice, then mix until combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Shape mixture into oval or sausage-like forms, with or without skewers.
Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through, or bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes, or grill for 10–12 minutes.
Serve hot with rice, flatbread, or yogurt sauce.
Notes
Add breadcrumbs if mixture is too soft.
Use ground turkey as an alternative.
Add chili flakes for extra heat.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
