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Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Tahini and Pita Recipe

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4.3 from 8 reviews

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

These Chicken Kofta Kebabs are flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired grilled skewers made from ground chicken mixed with aromatic spices, onions, and fresh cilantro. They are perfect served with tahini sauce and warm pitas, bringing a deliciously juicy and spiced protein option for any grill gathering or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • ½ cup cilantro, washed and finely chopped
  • ¼ cup bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp salt, to taste
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 egg (optional)

For Serving (Optional)

  • Tahini sauce
  • Pitas

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, diced onion, breadcrumbs, and finely chopped cilantro. Add salt, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly and assess the consistency of the mixture; if the ingredients stick well together and patties can be formed easily, you may choose to omit the egg.
  2. Chill the Mixture: Transfer the combined chicken mixture to the refrigerator and let it chill for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to shape the kebabs.
  3. Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes while the meat chills to prevent burning during grilling.
  4. Shape Kebabs: With wet or well-oiled hands, press the chicken mixture around the skewers to form about 20 medium-sized oval elongated shapes. To shape, cup your hands in an open prayer-like position and gently press the meat around the skewer, ensuring it clings tightly without squishing it excessively.
  5. Preheat Grill and Prepare Rack: Set your oven to a high grill (broil) setting, ideally around 400-450°F (204-232°C). Place a cookie drying rack on top of a baking sheet to allow air circulation and even cooking, then arrange the kebab skewers on the rack.
  6. Grill Kebabs: Place the baking sheet on the highest oven rack closest to the grill element. Grill each batch of kebabs for 5 minutes on one side, then carefully turn and grill for an additional 5 minutes on the other side, until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
  7. Serve: Remove kebabs from the oven and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve with tahini sauce on the side and warm pita bread. Traditionally, they can be enjoyed inside pitas with Israeli salad and zaalouk for a complete experience.

Notes

  • Egg is optional, used to bind the mixture if needed; omit if mixture holds well without it.
  • Soak wooden skewers before grilling to avoid burning.
  • Ensure meat mixture chills before shaping for better texture and easier handling.
  • Use the highest rack for grilling in the oven to simulate grilling with direct heat.
  • For an authentic touch, serve with Israeli salad, zaalouk, and tahini sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Find it online: https://recipekind.com/chicken-kofta-kebabs-with-tahini-and-pita-recipe/