Grilled Chicken Kafta

Grilled Chicken Kafta is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish made from ground chicken blended with fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and onions. Shaped into skewers and grilled to perfection, this lean protein option offers a delightful twist on traditional beef or lamb kafta, making it a healthy and delicious choice for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Utilizing ground chicken provides a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
• Bursting with Flavor: A combination of fresh herbs and spices ensures each bite is aromatic and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfectly pairs with salads, rice, or tucked into pita bread with your favorite sauces.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make this recipe accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Great for Grilling Season: Ideal for outdoor barbecues or indoor grilling, bringing a taste of the Middle East to your table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
• 1 small onion, grated (about ½ cup)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• 1 small slice of whole wheat bread, toasted and soaked in water, then squeezed dry
• 1 ½ teaspoons Aleppo pepper (or sweet pepper flakes)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 egg
• Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Toast the slice of bread until golden brown. Place it in a small bowl, cover with water, and let it sit until tender. Squeeze out all the water and crumble the bread into a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, Aleppo pepper, ground coriander, sweet paprika, salt, black pepper, egg, and a drizzle of olive oil to the bowl with the bread. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Shape the Kafta: With wet hands, form the mixture into 8 oval patties, about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick. Place them on a tray or large plate, ensuring they do not touch. Refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes while preheating the grill.
4. Grill the Kafta: Preheat a gas grill or indoor griddle to medium-high heat and lightly grease the grates. Place the kafta patties on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until fully cooked through and nicely charred.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve immediately, garnished with additional Aleppo pepper or chili flakes if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (2 kafta patties per serving)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of Aleppo pepper or substituting with chili flakes.
• Herb Substitutions: Replace mint with cilantro or dill for a different flavor profile.
• Alternative Proteins: Use ground turkey, beef, or lamb in place of chicken.
• Cooking Methods: Instead of grilling, bake the kafta in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or pan-fry over medium heat until cooked through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked kafta patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Reheating: Reheat cooked kafta in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated.

FAQs

Can I use breadcrumbs instead of bread?

Yes, you can substitute the soaked bread slice with ¼ cup of breadcrumbs. This will help bind the mixture similarly.

What is Aleppo pepper, and can I substitute it?

Aleppo pepper is a mildly spicy, fruity chili pepper commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. If unavailable, you can use sweet paprika with a pinch of cayenne pepper as a substitute.

Can I prepare the kafta mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking.

How do I prevent the kafta from sticking to the grill?

Ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled. Also, refrigerating the shaped kafta before grilling helps them hold together better.

Is it necessary to use an egg in the mixture?

The egg acts as a binder to help hold the kafta together. If you prefer not to use an egg, ensure the mixture is well-chilled and consider adding a bit more breadcrumbs to aid binding.

Can I cook kafta without skewers?

Yes, you can shape the kafta into patties or logs and cook them directly on the grill or in a skillet without skewers.

What sides pair well with chicken kafta?

Chicken kafta pairs wonderfully with hummus, tabbouleh, rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.

Can I bake the kafta instead of grilling?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Place the kafta on a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

How do I know when the kafta is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be nicely browned, and the inside no longer pink.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Kafta offers a delightful and healthier twist on a classic Middle Eastern favorite. Its combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether served with traditional sides or incorporated into wraps and salads, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors and simplicity of this delicious dish.

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