Chicken Kefta Kebabs trace their roots to Levantine and Persian kitchens, where minced meat was shaped onto skewers and cooked over open charcoal. During Ramadan, these kebabs often appear at Iftar tables because they cook quickly yet provide satisfying protein after a long fast. The balance of cumin, coriander and parsley creates depth without heaviness. Grilling seals in moisture, making them suitable for gatherings where food must stay tender and flavourful.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
450 gramsGround chicken
½Small yellow onion (very finely chopped or grated)
Place ground chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add onion, parsley, garlic powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil and breadcrumbs. Combine using clean hands, folding and pressing until the mixture becomes slightly sticky and evenly seasoned. Avoid overworking, as that can tighten the texture after cooking.
Description - Step 2
Chill Mixture
Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Resting allows the breadcrumbs to hydrate and the proteins to bind properly. The mixture will firm up slightly, making shaping easier and preventing the kebabs from cracking during grilling.
Description - Step 3
Shape Kebabs
Divide into 12 equal portions. If using skewers, mould each portion around a soaked wooden skewer into a long oval about 15–18 cm in length. Keep the thickness even so they cook uniformly. Without skewers, shape into compact logs or flat ovals and arrange on a lined tray.
Description - Step 4
Preheat Grill
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the surface with oil and coat the kebabs thinly as well. Proper preheating ensures immediate searing, which helps retain juices inside the meat.
Description - Step 5
Grill Kebabs
Place kebabs on the hot surface without crowding. Cook 6–8 minutes per side, turning gently once. The exterior should develop browned grill marks while the interior reaches 74°C. Avoid pressing them down; pressure forces out moisture and results in dryness.
Description - Step 6
Rest Before Serving
Transfer kebabs to a plate and allow them to rest briefly. This pause redistributes internal juices, keeping each bite tender rather than crumbly.