The Juicy Chicken Kofta Recipe That Sizzles with Flavor

Succulent chicken kofta can turn an ordinary meal into a delightful culinary adventure.

Aromatic spices dance through these tender meatballs, promising a burst of flavor in every bite.

Mediterranean influences shine brightly in this simple yet sophisticated dish.

Crafting these juicy koftas requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

Home cooks love how quickly these gems come together in the kitchen.

Skewered or served as standalone bites, these koftas will definitely impress anyone around your dining table.

Lean in and discover a recipe that brings excitement to your next dinner.

How To Store Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe

• Store leftover chicken kofta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual koftas tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Place koftas on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between each burst.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange koftas on baking sheet. Cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through, checking internal temperature reaches 165°F.

FAQs For Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe

• What are koftas?

Koftas are traditional Middle Eastern and Indian meatballs or patties made with ground meat, spices, and herbs, typically grilled or fried.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute and provides a similar texture and flavor profile for this recipe.

• How do I know when the koftas are fully cooked?

Check the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer, or cut into a kofta to ensure there’s no pink meat inside.

• Are these koftas gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses bread as a binding ingredient. To make them gluten-free, you can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Why Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe Is A Weeknight Hit

• Craft Homemade Comfort: Dive into a delightful chicken kofta recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal perfect for family gatherings.
• Master Easy Technique: Shape oval patties with damp hands, making the cooking process smooth and enjoyable for both novice and experienced home cooks.
• Quick Prep and Cook: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps allow you to prepare a delicious protein-packed dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Serving Option: Serve these juicy koftas warm as a main course, appetizer, or alongside salads and rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Everything In Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe

• Chicken: Ground chicken creates the main body of the kofta with rich flavor and protein.

• Toasted Bread, Water: Soaked bread helps bind the mixture and adds moisture to keep the kofta tender.
• Egg: Provides additional binding and helps hold the kofta together during cooking.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that bring out the natural taste of the chicken.
• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that add depth and savory notes to the kofta.
• Green Chili: Introduces a subtle heat and fresh spicy flavor to the mixture.
• Fresh Coriander Leaves: Adds a bright, herbal freshness to the overall taste profile.

How To Make Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Bread Base

Take toasted bread and immerse it in water. Gently squeeze out excess moisture until the bread becomes soft and manageable.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a spacious mixing bowl, blend the bread with ground chicken, finely chopped onions, fresh herbs, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Form Kofta Shapes

With slightly dampened hands, craft elongated oval patties. Create smooth, uniform shapes that are approximately 2-3 inches long. Aim for consistent size to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Chill and Firm

Place the shaped kofta on a plate and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Chilling helps the patties hold their shape and enhances flavor melding.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook kofta for 4-5 minutes on each side. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Look for golden brown exterior with slight char marks.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer grilled kofta to a serving platter. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and optional chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm with yogurt sauce or flatbread.

Cooking Tips For Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe

• Prevent Dry Meat: Add grated onion or yogurt to keep chicken kofta moist and tender during cooking.
• Master Shaping Technique: Use wet hands to prevent mixture from sticking and create smooth, uniform patties.
• Boost Flavor Depth: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or cilantro for aromatic complexity.
• Control Texture: Soak bread precisely to maintain correct moisture balance without making mixture too wet.
• Ensure Safe Cooking: Check internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Fresh Takes On Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe

• Lean Protein Swap: Replace chicken with ground turkey for a lower-fat alternative that maintains similar texture and flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Version
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular bread and ensure all spices are certified gluten-free for sensitive diets.
• Spicy Mediterranean Adaptation: Incorporate additional chili flakes, fresh mint, and za'atar spice blend to elevate traditional kofta's flavor complexity.

What Pairs Nicely With Meliz Healthy Chicken Kofta Recipe

• Elevate Wine Pairing: Choose a crisp, light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the delicate chicken kofta flavors and cut through its richness.
• Boost Herbal Yogurt Dip: Create a cool mint and cucumber yogurt sauce that adds freshness and balances the warm, spiced kofta with its tangy and cooling properties.
• Match Mediterranean Sides: Serve alongside a simple Greek salad with feta cheese and olives, which provides a bright, acidic contrast to the meat's savory profile.
• Enhance Bread Accompaniment: Warm pita or flatbread works perfectly to scoop up the kofta and capture all the delicious spices and juices, creating a complete flavor experience.

Chicken Kofta Recipe

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4.8 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 115 mins
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Succulent chicken kofta brings Middle Eastern charm to your dinner table with its aromatic spices and tender meat. Perfectly grilled and served with cooling yogurt sauce, this dish promises a delightful culinary journey you’ll savor with every delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground chicken
• 1 egg

Aromatics and Herbs:

• 1 small onion, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 0.5 cup parsley, chopped
• 3 tablespoons mint, chopped

Spices and Additional Ingredients:

• 1 slice of sandwich bread
• 1.5 teaspoons Aleppo pepper
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Drizzle of olive oil

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly moisten bread crumbs with water, gently squeezing out excess liquid to create a soft, moist texture.
2. In a spacious mixing vessel, combine bread crumbs with ground chicken, herbs, spices, and aromatics, using fingertips to blend ingredients uniformly and develop cohesive mixture.
3. Wet palms slightly to prevent sticking, then carefully craft elongated, symmetrical kofta shapes, ensuring consistent size and smooth surface.
4. Refrigerate prepared kofta for approximately 15 minutes, allowing proteins to set and enhance structural integrity.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high temperature around 375°F, positioning koftas to receive direct heat.
6. Cook koftas for 4-5 minutes per side, rotating once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and exterior develops golden-brown caramelized edges.
7. Transfer grilled koftas to serving platter, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, and present while maintaining optimal warmth.

Notes

• Bread acts as a binder, helping to keep the kofta moist and preventing them from becoming too dense or dry.
• Use slightly stale bread for better absorption and texture, ensuring a more cohesive mixture.
• Chilling the kofta before cooking helps them maintain their shape and prevents falling apart during grilling.
• For a gluten-free version, replace bread with ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the same binding properties.

• Prep Time: 25 mins
• Cook Time: 90 mins
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 290 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 140 mg