Herby Chicken Kofta Meatballs

Fragrant and flavorful Middle Eastern-style meatballs made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices. These kofta are seasoned with cumin, coriander, and fresh mint and parsley for a delicious main dish.

8 servings
51 min

Ingredients

  • 2 medium yellow onions
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • teaspoons ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups parsley leaves
  • 1 cup mint leaves
  • 2 pounds ground chicken
  • mixed chicken meat
  • regular fat content

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat oven to 425°F. Pulse yellow onions and garlic in a food processor until very finely chopped.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chopped onion and garlic, season with 1/2 tsp. salt, and cook, stirring, until softened and lightly browned, 10-15 minutes. Add cumin, coriander, and red pepper and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 30-60 seconds. Scrape into a large bowl and let cool slightly.

    15 min

  3. 3.

    Wipe out food processor and add parsley and mint. Pulse until finely chopped, then transfer to bowl with onion mixture. Add chicken and remaining 1 1/2 tsp. salt to bowl with onion mixture. Mix with your hands to combine, but do not overwork. Divide into 16 equal portions (about 1/3 cup per kofta). Shape into 3 1/2x2" "footballs" with tapered ends.

    15 min

  4. 4.

    Arrange patties on a rimmed baking sheet and roast, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F, about 8 minutes per side.

    16 min

  5. 5.

    Kofta can be made 3 days ahead; transfer to an airtight container and chill, or freeze up to 6 months.