Name: Chicken Kofta Kebabs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 small onion (peeled and roughly chopped); 1 bunch parsley (large stems removed); 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); 0.5 cup breadcrumbs; 1 lb ground chicken; 1 tbsp ground coriander seeds; 1 tsp ground allspice; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground cardamom; 0.5 tsp salt (or more to taste); 0.5 tsp ground black pepper (or more to taste); 0.5 cup plain unsweetened yogurt (Greek or plain, fat-free or low fat); 1 clove garlic (finely minced); 1 tbsp parsley leaves (finely minced); 1 lemon zest (from 1 lemon); 1 tbsp lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon); 0.25 tsp salt (or more to taste); 0.25 tsp ground black pepper (or more to taste)

Introduction to Chicken Kofta Kebabs

If you're on the hunt for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option, look no further than Chicken Kofta Kebabs! These flavorful skewers of ground chicken, herbs, and spices come together in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table, allowing you to explore new flavors without ever leaving home.

Why Chicken Kofta Kebabs are a must-try?

Chicken Kofta Kebabs stand out for several reasons. Firstly, they are incredibly versatile. Pair them with aromatic rice and crisp veggies for a wholesome meal or serve them with warm pita bread and a side of garlicky yogurt sauce for a fun, shareable snack. The combination of spices—like ground coriander, allspice, and cardamom—adds a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds, turning any meal into a culinary adventure.

Moreover, they are a healthier alternative to traditional kebabs, as they're made with lean ground chicken, making them perfect for those who want to indulge without the guilt. So why not impress your guests or treat yourself to this delectable dish? Check out this article on the health benefits of spices to learn more about what makes these kebabs a flavorful and nutritious choice!

Ingredients for Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Fresh Ingredients for the Kebabs

To make your Chicken Kofta Kebabs burst with flavor, you'll need some fresh ingredients. Here’s what to gather:

1 small onion (peeled and roughly chopped)
1 bunch of parsley (stems removed)
2 cloves of garlic (finely minced)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 lb ground chicken
1 tablespoon ground coriander seeds
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon salt (or adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (or adjust to taste)

You can find fresh spices at local markets or even order them online to ensure you're using the best quality. Fresh ingredients are key to elevating your dish!

Ingredients for the Garlicky Yogurt Sauce

No Chicken Kofta Kebabs are complete without a rich, garlicky yogurt sauce to complement the flavors. Here's what you'll need:

½ cup plain unsweetened yogurt (Greek or regular, low-fat or fat-free)
1 clove of garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon parsley leaves (finely minced)
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice (from ½ a lemon)
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)

This sauce adds a refreshing tangy note that balances the spices beautifully! You can find great yogurt options at Dairy Goodness if you're looking for a quality brand. Enjoy experimenting and tasting as you go!

Preparing Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Cooking can often feel repetitive, especially after a week filled with the same old meals. If you’re on the hunt for something different and delicious to spice up your dinner routine, Chicken Kofta Kebabs might just be the ideal dish! They’re quick, full of flavor, and pair perfectly with a refreshing garlicky yogurt sauce. Let's dive into how to get these delightful morsels from ingredients to plate!

Gather and Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it's essential to gather your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable. For the kebabs, you'll need:

1 small onion, finely diced
1 bunch parsley (with large stems removed)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 lb ground chicken
1 tablespoon ground coriander seeds
1 teaspoon of ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

For the garlicky yogurt sauce:

½ cup plain unsweetened yogurt (Greek or regular)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely minced parsley
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice (from half a lemon)
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)

Once you have everything ready, your culinary adventure can begin!

Make the Kebab Mixture

Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to make your kebab mixture. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, diced onion, minced garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, and spices (coriander, allspice, cumin, cardamom, salt, and pepper). Mix everything together with your hands until well combined. This step is not just crucial for flavor; it also ensures that your Chicken Kofta Kebabs hold together beautifully as they cook.

Form the Kebabs

With your mixture in a nice, cohesive blend, it’s time to shape your kebabs. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, and take a handful of the mixture to form elongated patties or skewers. Aim for approximately 1-2 inches in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or sprayed with oil. This will help prevent the kebabs from sticking as they bake.

Baking the Kebabs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, pop your kebabs into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they’re evenly cooked. Keep an eye on them to get that perfect golden brown color, which adds a delightful crunch!

Whipping Up the Garlicky Yogurt Sauce

While the kebabs are baking, take this opportunity to whip up your garlicky yogurt sauce. Combine the yogurt, minced garlic, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and adjust the seasoning to your liking. This sauce not only offers a creamy contrast to the savory kebabs but also brightens up the dish with its refreshing flavors.

And there you have it! Your Chicken Kofta Kebabs are ready to be served alongside your favorite veggies and rice. Enjoy a culinary experience that’s not just easy but also brings a world of flavors right into your kitchen. Curious about culinary tips and ingredient substitutes? Check out this guide on spices and flavor pairings. Happy cooking!

Variations on Chicken Kofta Kebabs

When it comes to Chicken Kofta Kebabs, the foundation of the recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are a couple of delicious variations to entice your taste buds.

Spicy Chicken Kofta

If you crave heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into your mixture. This adds a fiery kick that can elevate your Chicken Kofta Kebabs to a whole new level. Don't forget a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce on top for the perfect finishing touch!

Herb-Infused Chicken Kofta

For a refreshing twist, add a blend of your favorite herbs, such as mint, cilantro, or dill, to the kebab mixture. These herb-infused chicken kofta will not only invigorate the flavors but will also complement the garlicky yogurt sauce beautifully. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the secret ingredient!

Explore more kebab variations and tips at BBC Good Food.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Best Practices for Kebab Consistency

To achieve perfectly tender Chicken Kofta Kebabs, ensure your mixture is well combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so stir until just blended. Using moist ingredients like finely chopped onion and garlic not only enhances flavor but also keeps the kebabs juicy. Consider chilling the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to improve hold.

Optional Grilling Tips

Grilling adds a smoky flavor that elevates your Chicken Kofta Kebabs. Preheat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates to prevent sticking. For optimal cooking, ensure the kebabs are evenly shaped and not overcrowded on the grill. You might also want to use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness. Serve these kebabs with your famous garlicky yogurt sauce for an irresistible meal. For more grilling tips, check out this grilling guide.

Serving suggestions for Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Accompaniments to elevate your meal

To really elevate your Chicken Kofta Kebabs, consider serving them alongside a refreshing tabbouleh salad, with its bright flavors of parsley, mint, and lemon. The herbaceous notes complement the spices in the kebabs beautifully. Add some warm pita bread for a perfect vessel to scoop up that delicious garlicky yogurt sauce. Also, try roasting some seasonal veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini, which add color and nutrition to your plate.

Pairing ideas for a complete dinner

For a well-rounded dinner experience, pair your kebabs with fluffy couscous or fragrant basmati rice. You might even enjoy a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing drizzled over the grains for added zest. To drink, a crisp sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a fruity mocktail will balance the meal nicely. Exploring different flavor profiles will make your next gathering or weeknight dinner a joy!

Time breakdown for Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Preparation time

Getting started with your Chicken Kofta Kebabs is a breeze! You'll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients. Gather your onion, parsley, garlic, and other spices to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Cooking time

Once you're prepped, the cooking process is quick. In just 15 minutes, your kebabs will be cooked to perfection in the oven. Make sure to keep an eye on them as they roast!

Total time

In only 30 minutes, you can have delicious Chicken Kofta Kebabs ready to serve. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, especially when paired with a fresh, garlicky yogurt sauce. Serve it alongside rice and veggies for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

For more great Chicken recipes, check out BBC Good Food for inspiration. The world of flavorful chicken dishes is vast, and you’ll find countless opportunities to experiment and delight your taste buds!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Calories

Each serving of Chicken Kofta Kebabs contains approximately 180 calories. This makes them a light yet satisfying choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious dinner without the calorie overload.

Protein

What’s great about these kebabs is that they are packed with 26 grams of protein per serving! This makes them an ideal option for anyone aiming to boost their protein intake, especially post-workout.

Fat

In terms of fats, you’ll find about 8 grams in every serving of these Chicken Kofta Kebabs. With a good balance of healthy fats, they align perfectly with a balanced diet while still providing rich flavors.

Chicken kofta is not just tasty; it's also a nutritious way to keep your meals interesting! For additional insights on healthy eating, you might want to check out resources from the Academy of Nutrition or explore delicious side dishes that can complement these kebabs.

FAQ about Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great alternative to chicken in your Chicken Kofta Kebabs. Just keep an eye on the moisture level, as turkey tends to be leaner. You might consider adding a bit more onion or yogurt to keep the texture juicy.

How do I store leftover kofta kebabs?

To store your leftover kebabs, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure they’re heated thoroughly, either in the oven or microwave to maintain their flavor. For more storage tips, check out the USDA's guidelines on leftovers here.

What can I serve with chicken kofta kebabs?

Chicken Kofta Kebabs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Opt for rice or quinoa, and add some roasted veggies. For a refreshing touch, consider a simple salad or a quick tabbouleh. And don’t forget the garlicky yogurt sauce—it brings everything together deliciously! You could even wrap the kebabs in pita for a fun and portable meal option.

Conclusion on Chicken Kofta Kebabs

In just 30 minutes, you can create delicious Chicken Kofta Kebabs that are sure to impress! Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, these flavorful kebabs paired with garlicky yogurt sauce elevate any dining experience. Don't hesitate to experiment with accompanying sides like rice and veggies for a complete dish!