Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Chicken Kafta is a delicious Middle Eastern dish made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, shaped onto skewers and grilled to juicy perfection. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional beef or lamb kafta, yet still packed with bold flavor. Perfect for barbecues, meal prep, or weeknight dinners, this protein-rich dish pairs beautifully with rice, salad, or warm pita.

ingredients

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

ground chickenoniongarlicparsleyfresh mintcuminpaprikacorianderallspicesaltblack pepperolive oillemon juicewooden or metal skewers

directions

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, cumin, paprika, coriander, allspice, salt, and pepper.

Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

With slightly oiled hands, shape the mixture into oval or log shapes around skewers, pressing firmly to hold together.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates lightly.

Grill the kafta skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, turning until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Brush with olive oil and a splash of lemon juice just before removing from the grill for added flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 skewers.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10–12 minutesTotal time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.

Mix in grated zucchini or carrot for added moisture and nutrition.

Serve with tzatziki or garlic sauce for dipping.

Try baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes if grilling isn’t an option.

Use turkey instead of chicken for a similar result.

storage/reheating

Store leftover kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

Cooked kafta can be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and has a similar texture and flavor.

How do I keep the kafta from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well mixed and firm, and chill before grilling if needed.

What should I serve with chicken kafta?

Serve with rice, tabbouleh, hummus, grilled vegetables, or pita bread.

Can I cook this without skewers?

Yes, shape into patties or logs and cook on a grill pan or in the oven.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as no breadcrumbs are added and the spices are gluten-free.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, shape the skewers and refrigerate up to a day in advance before grilling.

What herbs are essential?

Parsley is a must; mint adds freshness but can be optional.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Kafta is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile dish that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. Easy to prepare and bursting with herbs and spices, it’s a perfect addition to your grilling lineup or weekly dinner rotation. Serve it fresh off the grill for a satisfying and aromatic meal.