Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Chicken Kafta is a lighter twist on the traditional Middle Eastern kafta, made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices. Juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, these skewers are perfect for grilling season and pair beautifully with rice, salads, or flatbread. It’s a healthy and satisfying dish that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings.

ingredients

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

ground chickenoniongarlicfresh parsleyfresh cilantroground cuminground corianderground allspicepaprikacayenne pepper (optional)saltblack pepperolive oilwooden or metal skewers

directions

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using.

In a food processor, pulse onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro until finely chopped.

In a large bowl, combine the herb mixture with ground chicken, spices, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Divide the mixture and shape it around skewers into long, sausage-like shapes.

Brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

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

Grill the kafta for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.

Remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 skewers.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time (optional): 15 minutesGrilling time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a similar result.

Add grated zucchini or carrot to the mixture for extra moisture and nutrition.

Swap fresh herbs with dried ones if fresh is not available, but reduce the quantity.

Serve with a drizzle of tahini sauce or yogurt dip for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover kafta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.You can also freeze the raw or cooked kafta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking or reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake the kafta instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

How do I keep the kafta from falling off the skewer?

Chill the shaped kafta for 15-20 minutes before grilling to help it hold together.

Can I make this mixture ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and grilling.

Is this dish spicy?

It has mild heat, but you can adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference.

What should I serve with chicken kafta?

It pairs well with rice pilaf, tabbouleh, hummus, or grilled vegetables.

Can I cook kafta without skewers?

Yes, you can form them into patties or logs and cook them directly on the grill or in a pan.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you don’t add any breadcrumbs or wheat-based fillers.

How do I know when it’s cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F and the exterior should be golden brown.

Can I use a grill pan indoors?

Absolutely, a stovetop grill pan works well for this recipe.

What’s the best way to keep it juicy?

Avoid overcooking and don’t skimp on the herbs and onion—they help retain moisture.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Kafta brings bold Middle Eastern flavors to your table in a healthy and delicious form. Whether you’re meal-prepping or hosting a barbecue, these skewers offer a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a fantastic addition to your grilling lineup.