Chicken Koftas Recipe

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Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup coarsely chopped sweet onion
• 1 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
• 1/2 cup packed fresh mint leaves
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh ginger
• 1 jalapeo chile, stemmed and coarsely chopped
• 1 pound lean ground chicken (8% fat)
• 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs or cornmeal
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Cooking spray

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients listed above.

Step 2: Add the onion, cilantro, mint, garlic, ginger, and jalapeo to a food processor. Pulse until very finely chopped, around 10 one-second pulses. Transfer the mixture to a kitchen towel, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed onion mixture, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, olive oil, egg, garlic powder, salt, cumin, coriander, and black pepper. Mix gently until thoroughly incorporated.

Step 4: With moistened gloved hands, shape the chicken mixture into 12 cylinders (approximately 3x1-1/2 inches each) and place them on a baking sheet. Alternatively, if grilling, shape the mixture onto skewers.

To Broil:

Step 5: Preheat the ovens broiler and set a rack about 7 inches from the heat source. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and coat with cooking spray.

Step 6: Arrange the koftas in a single layer about 2 inches apart. Spray them with cooking spray and broil, flipping halfway through, until browned and the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C), about 8 minutes.

To Grill:

Step 7: Preheat your grill to medium heat (350-400F or 175-200C). Place the skewers on the oiled grates and grill, covered, flipping every 2 minutes, until charred and the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C), about 8 minutes.

Alternative Method: Heat a large oiled grill pan over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add the koftas to the pan and grill, uncovered, flipping every 2 minutes until charred and the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C), about 10 minutes.

To Air-fry:

Step 8: Preheat the air fryer to 380F (193C) for 2 minutes. Spray the koftas with cooking spray. Working in batches, add the koftas to the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook, flipping after 4 minutes, until browned and the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C), about 8 minutes.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	353
Total Fat	21g (27% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	5g (25% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	168mg (56% Daily Value)
Sodium	555mg (24% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates	13g (5% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	2g (7% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	3g
Protein	30g (60% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	9mg (10% Daily Value)
Calcium	66mg (5% Daily Value)
Iron	3mg (16% Daily Value)
Potassium	963mg (20% Daily Value)

The Fascinating Story of Chicken Koftas

Chicken koftas, a beloved dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, trace their origins back centuries, likely emerging from the rich culinary traditions of the Levant region. Historically, koftas were made with lamb or beef, reflecting the pastoral lifestyle of the area. As trade routes expanded and culinary experimentation flourished, chicken became a popular alternative due to its lighter taste and easier availability. The word "kofta" itself is derived from the Persian word kufteh, meaning to grind or pounded meat, highlighting the technique of mincing and blending meat with aromatic herbs and spices.

Regional Variations

Across the Middle East and South Asia, chicken koftas show remarkable regional diversity. In Lebanon and Syria, they are often flavored with a mix of parsley, mint, and garlic, emphasizing fresh, bright flavors. In India and Pakistan, koftas may be cooked in rich, spiced gravies, incorporating cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Turkey offers slightly firmer koftas, sometimes incorporating bulgur or rice into the mixture. Even within a single country, home cooks may adapt spices, herbs, or cooking methods to suit local tastes or dietary preferences, making each kofta experience unique.

Distinguishing Features

While koftas may resemble meatballs or kebabs, they stand out due to their unique combination of finely minced meat, herbs, and spices, which are gently mixed to maintain tenderness. Unlike traditional meatballs, koftas are often shaped into elongated cylinders or ovals and can be broiled, grilled, or air-fried. The addition of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint in chicken koftas gives them a distinctive aromatic quality that sets them apart from other minced meat dishes.

Where They Are Served

Chicken koftas are versatile in presentation and are served in homes, street food stalls, and upscale restaurants alike. In casual settings, they may appear on skewers or platters alongside flatbreads, salads, and dipping sauces such as tzatziki or tahini. In more formal dining, they might be presented with couscous, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables, often accompanied by a drizzle of yogurt-based sauce. Their portability and adaptability have made them a favorite for gatherings, festive meals, and everyday dinners.

Interesting Facts

Interestingly, koftas were originally a way to make tougher cuts of meat more palatable by mixing them with spices, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The dish is celebrated not only for its flavor but also for its efficiencyminced meat cooks quickly and evenly. Some cultures even create sweet versions of koftas, especially with lamb or beef, incorporating dried fruits and nuts. Additionally, modern cooking methods, like air-frying, allow for a healthier version without sacrificing the signature crisp exterior and tender interior, proving that this ancient dish continues to evolve while honoring its traditional roots.

FAQ about Chicken Koftas Recipe

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