Why You’ll Love Chicken Kafta Recipe
This recipe is simple, fast, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of cinnamon, garlic, and fresh parsley gives the kafta a unique taste that stands out. It’s also versatile—you can grill it outdoors or cook it on a stovetop grill pan. With minimal prep time and wholesome ingredients, it’s a great option for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound ground chicken
¼ cup parsley (finely chopped)
½ small yellow onion (finely chopped)
1 garlic clove (pressed)
2 teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Place the ground chicken, parsley, onions, garlic, and spices in a large bowl. Use your hands to mix until everything is well combined. The mixture will feel slightly sticky.
- Shape the mixture into oblong forms about 1 inch thick. You can mold them onto skewers or shape them by hand.
- Lightly grease the grates of a gas grill or an indoor grill pan and preheat to medium-high heat. Grill the kafta for 4–5 minutes on each side, until fully cooked through.
- Serve immediately while hot with your favorite sides.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 15–20 minutes
Variations
You can swap ground chicken for turkey or beef for a richer flavor. Add spices like cumin or paprika for a deeper taste profile. For a spicier version, include a pinch of chili flakes. You can also bake the kafta in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes instead of grilling.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover kafta 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 until heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry them out. You can also freeze cooked kafta for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb depending on your preference.
How do I know when the kafta is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.
Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Cook in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes.
Why is my mixture sticky?
That’s normal due to the moisture from the onion and chicken. Slightly wet hands can help with shaping.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and shape the kafta a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
What can I serve with chicken kafta?
It pairs well with rice, salad, pita bread, or grilled vegetables.
Can I cook this without skewers?
Absolutely, you can shape them by hand and cook them directly on the grill or pan.
How do I prevent the kafta from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is well combined and compact when shaping.
Can I freeze raw kafta?
Yes, shape them first, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a container.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein and uses simple, fresh ingredients, making it a balanced meal option.
Conclusion
Chicken Kafta is a quick and delicious dish that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked indoors, it’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion.
Chicken Kafta
Juicy and flavorful chicken kafta made with fresh herbs and warm spices, grilled to perfection in just minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (pressed)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the ground chicken, parsley, onion, garlic, and spices in a large bowl. Mix with your hands until well combined; the mixture will be slightly sticky.
- Form the mixture into oblong shapes about 1 inch thick, with or without skewers.
- Preheat a greased gas grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the kafta for 4–5 minutes per side, until fully cooked through.
- Serve hot off the grill with your choice of sides.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for chicken if desired.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Serve with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
