Chicken Kofta: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Chicken kofta, succulent grilled chicken meatballs, offer a delightful twist on traditional kebabs. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating flavorful and juicy chicken kofta, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Let's dive into the juicy details!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields approximately 20-24 koftas. Adjust ingredient quantities based on your desired yield.

• For the Chicken Kofta:

  • 1 lb ground chicken (preferably dark meat for juiciness)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons bread crumbs (or more, as needed for consistency)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)

• For Serving (suggestions):

  • Naan bread or pita bread
  • Yogurt sauce (plain yogurt mixed with chopped cucumber, mint, and a squeeze of lemon)
  • Salad (cucumber, tomato, onion)
  • Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Chicken Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, cilantro, mint, garlic, ginger, green chili (if using), cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.

2. Achieving the Right Consistency:

Gradually add the bread crumbs, mixing continuously. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when formed into meatballs, but not too dry. Add more bread crumbs if necessary.

3. Shaping the Koftas:

Roll the chicken mixture into elongated meatballs, approximately 2-3 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. You can make them thicker or thinner based on your preference.

4. Grilling or Pan-Frying the Koftas:

Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Grill the koftas for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.

Pan-frying: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the koftas and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and browned.

5. Serving Your Delicious Chicken Kofta:

Serve the hot chicken koftas immediately with your choice of accompaniments like naan bread, pita bread, yogurt sauce, and a fresh salad. A squeeze of lemon juice adds extra zing!

Tips for Extra Flavorful Chicken Kofta:

• Marinate the Chicken: For even more intense flavor, marinate the ground chicken mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) in the refrigerator before shaping and cooking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as garam masala or paprika, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Don't Overcook: Overcooked koftas will be dry. Cook them until they are cooked through but still juicy.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and high-quality ground chicken will significantly enhance the taste of your koftas.

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