Arabic Chicken Kofta Recipe

Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl and set it aside. Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the onion. Place the grated onion into the strainer. Using the back of a spoon, strain all of its juices. Transfer the onion to a large mixing bowl. Discard the juices.

Into that same bowl, add 1 lb ground chicken, ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, 2 cloves of minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, 1 large egg, 1 ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and ¼ of chopped fresh parsley.
Mix with clean hands until well combined.

Pour the olive oil into a small bowl. To shape the kofta, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture, oil your hands lightly, and form into 10 oval patties (or your preferred shape). A cookie scoop works well for even portions.
Arrange the koftas on a platter, cover with plastic wrap, and let them rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking.

Cooking On The Grill
Preheat a gas grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates, then oil them using a paper towel dipped in oil.
Grill the kofta for 2-3 minutes for each side, turning often, until lightly golden brown and cooked through. They’re ready when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F.
Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

In The Oven
Preheat your oven to 375 °F (191°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Arrange the chicken koftas on the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process for even baking.

On The Stove top
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a cast-iron skillet (or a large non-stick skillet) over medium high heat until shimmering.
Place the patties in the skillet, and cook undisturbed, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Continue to cook each side, turning every 2-3 minutes. It should take no more than 8 minutes to cook.*
In The Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375 °F (191°C). Lightly spray (or brush) it with oil.
Arrange the koftas in a single layer, leaving enough room between each patty for air to circulate.
Air fry for 12-13 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the center of a chicken kofta registers 165°F (74 °C) when inserted with a meat thermometer.

Serve with a side of rice and salad.