Chicken Kofte

Delicious Chicken Kofta Recipe This recipe yields flavorful and tender chicken kofta, perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying. Serve them with pita bread, a fresh salad, and your favorite yogurt-based sauce. *Yields:* Approximately 20-25 kofta *Prep time:* 20 minutes *Cook time:* 15-20 minutes *Ingredients:* 1 lb (450g) ground chicken 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking) *Instructions:* 1. *Prepare the Kofta Mixture:* In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, cilantro, mint, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. 2. *Mix Well:* Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the kofta tough. 3. *Shape the Kofta:* Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into small, elongated oval shapes (like tiny sausages) or round meatballs. You can lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking. 4. *Cook the Kofta:* *Grilling:* Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil. Grill the kofta for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely browned. *Baking:* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the kofta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through. *Pan-Frying:* Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kofta in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. 5. *Serve:* Let the kofta rest for a minute or two before serving. Enjoy hot! *Tips and Variations:* *For extra moisture:* Add 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt or a tablespoon of finely grated zucchini to the mixture. *Spice it up:* Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. *Add cheese:* Mix in a tablespoon or two of crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick. *Serve with:* Tzatziki sauce, tahini sauce, a simple lemon-herb dressing, or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad.