This Chicken Kafta is a delicious, juicy, and flavorful grilled dish made with tender ground chicken, fresh parsley, aromatic spices, and a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist. The blend of ingredients comes together to create a perfect balance of savory and aromatic flavors. Whether served as a main course with a side dish or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired feast, Chicken Kafta is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, parsley, onion, garlic, and spices. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly. The mixture may feel a little sticky, but that’s normal.
Form the mixture into oblong shapes about 1 inch thick. You can thread the kafta onto skewers or form them without skewers, depending on your preference.
Preheat your grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat. Grease the grates to prevent sticking.
Place the kafta on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Serve the kafta hot off the grill with your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Kafta is a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional beef kebabs. The ground chicken provides a lighter texture, while the fresh parsley and aromatic spices make it incredibly flavorful. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for grilling, and versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, from salads to roasted vegetables.

Tips

Mix thoroughly: Be sure to mix the chicken mixture well to evenly distribute the spices and herbs. This ensures the flavor is consistent throughout.
Grill properly: Grill the kafta on medium-high heat to get a nice char and seal in the juices without overcooking.
Rest the kafta: Let the kafta rest for a couple of minutes after grilling to lock in the moisture and ensure they stay juicy.

Variations and Substitutions

Ground meat: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or beef for ground chicken for a different flavor profile.
Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Herbs: You can substitute parsley with cilantro for a slightly different flavor, or add a teaspoon of dried oregano for extra aroma.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken kafta?
Yes, you can bake the kafta at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover kafta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I freeze chicken kafta?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked kafta by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Grill directly from frozen.

Serving

Serve Chicken Kafta with pita bread, a side of hummus, tabbouleh, or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. You can also pair it with grilled vegetables or a tangy yogurt sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Suggestions

Make it a wrap: For a more casual meal, wrap the grilled kafta in pita or flatbread with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini.
Pair with rice: Serve it with couscous or rice pilaf for a complete and filling meal.
Use for meal prep: Chicken Kafta makes for an excellent meal prep option. Grill and store in containers for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.