Name: Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Harissa and Mint Yogurt Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean/Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs or gluten free breadcrumbs; 1 small white onion, grated (about 1/2 cup); 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint; 1 to 2 tablespoons harissa, depending on spice preference; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 egg; Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling and grilling); 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika; Kosher salt; Black pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 garlic clove, grated or minced; 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint; Zest of 1 lemon; Kosher salt; Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)

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If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that brings the warmth of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen, let me introduce you to the Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Harissa and Mint Yogurt Recipe. This dish perfectly combines spiced ground chicken infused with herbs and smoky harissa, grilled to juicy perfection, and served alongside a cooling, zesty mint yogurt sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple as it is sensational, ideal for sharing with friends or family on any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. There is a small white bowl in the center filled with raw ground meat, surrounded by a brown egg and a whole onion to the top right and a lemon below them. To the left, there is a white square bowl with thick white yogurt, next to a green leafy bunch of parsley. Below the yogurt, a small blue round plate holds three different ground spices with colors of brown, beige, and orange-red. Near the bottom center, a small wooden bowl contains salt with a wooden spoon. On the right side, a white round plate holds two red pastes, a peeled white onion slice with black pepper, and two garlic cloves beside them. There is a cluster of green mint leaves in the lower right corner. At the top left corner, there is a clear glass bottle filled with light yellow oil. The arrangement is neat and colorful, highlighting each ingredient clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing the authentic taste and vibrant colors of this dish. Each component plays an essential role—from the warmth of aromatic spices to the freshness of herbs and the bright pop of harissa that awakens the palate.

1 pound ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps the kofta tender and juicy.
1/3 cup breadcrumbs or gluten free breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture and adds just enough texture.
1 small white onion, grated (about 1/2 cup): Adds moisture and subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
1 garlic clove, minced: Lends a fragrant depth to the kofta.
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the flavor and adds vibrant green color.
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint: Gives a cool, refreshing contrast in the meat and also complements the yogurt sauce.
1 to 2 tablespoons harissa: The spicy star ingredient that brings smoky heat—you can adjust to taste.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Deepens the flavor with rich umami notes.
1 egg: The natural binder that holds everything together beautifully.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds silkiness and helps with grilling.
1 teaspoon ground coriander: Warm and citrusy spice that enhances the overall profile.
1/2 teaspoon cumin: A classic Middle Eastern spice that layers earthy tones.
1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika: For a smoky hint and vibrant color.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for perfectly seasoning every bite.
For the Mint Yogurt Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt: Creamy and luscious to tame the heat from the kofta.
1 garlic clove, grated or minced: Adds a punch of flavor in the sauce.
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint: Brings cooling freshness that complements the spicy kebabs.
Zest of 1 lemon: Brightens and lifts the yogurt.
Kosher salt: Balances all the flavors.
Extra virgin olive oil: A gentle drizzle for smooth richness in the sauce.

How to Make Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Harissa and Mint Yogurt Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

Before diving into the mixture, make sure to soak your bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This simple step prevents them from burning on the grill and keeps your kebabs safe and easy to handle.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Kofta

In a medium bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and mint, along with the fiery harissa and savory tomato paste. Crack an egg and drizzle some olive oil for moisture and binding. Season generously with ground coriander, cumin, sweet paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until you have a harmonious, well-blended mixture. Pop it into the fridge for a bit—this resting time lets all those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Mint Yogurt Sauce

While your kofta chills, whisk together Greek yogurt with garlic, fresh mint, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and a splash of olive oil in a small bowl. This sauce is a star on its own—creamy, bright, and refreshing—and it will elevate every bite of your kebabs.

Step 4: Form the Kofta Kebabs

With damp hands or gloves, shape the chicken mixture evenly onto the skewers. Squeeze firmly to create a sizable, uniform kebab along each skewer. This step requires a little patience but results in evenly cooked, juicy kebabs that hold together perfectly on the grill.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs to Perfection

Preheat your grill or indoor griddle, oiling it lightly to prevent sticking. Place the kebabs over direct medium-high heat and cook covered for 8 to 10 minutes per side. You want a beautiful char with cooked-through, juicy centers. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning. Once done, transfer to a platter and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

How to Serve Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Harissa and Mint Yogurt Recipe

The image shows a white plate with a blue rim on a white marbled surface. On the plate, there are two grilled kebabs on sticks, each with four dark grill marks, and bits of white sauce at both ends. To the right, there are two pieces of toasted flatbread with golden-brown spots and a soft texture. In the bottom center of the plate, there is a small pile of colorful salad made of chopped cucumbers, red tomatoes, red onions, and fresh green herbs, all mixed together. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh mint or parsley on top just before serving, and drizzle some of that creamy mint yogurt sauce directly over the kebabs. A zin of lemon wedges on the side is an easy way to add a citrusy pop that brightens every forkful.

Side Dishes

These kofta kebabs pair wonderfully with warm pita bread, a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, or fragrant couscous tossed with herbs and lemon. The options are endless but aim for sides that enhance the freshness and spice without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, turn this Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Harissa and Mint Yogurt Recipe into wraps stuffed with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of yogurt. Or, serve the kebabs over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf with scattered pomegranate seeds for a festive touch that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra kofta kebabs, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay deliciously moist and can be enjoyed cold or warmed up the next day for a quick meal.

Freezing

Chicken kofta kebabs freeze beautifully if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in freezer bags. Freeze before grilling and thaw overnight in the fridge for easy-to-grill meals on busy days.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in a grill pan or under the broiler at medium heat to regain that signature char and juiciness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While this Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Harissa and Mint Yogurt Recipe calls for ground chicken, lamb and beef are traditional choices in many Mediterranean recipes and will work beautifully with the spices and harissa.

How spicy is the harissa in this recipe?

Harissa varies in heat based on the brand and type used, but starting with 1 tablespoon and adjusting up to 2 allows you to control the spice level. The mint yogurt sauce helps balance out the heat perfectly.

Is it necessary to soak the skewers?

Yes, soaking bamboo skewers keeps them from burning while grilling. If you don’t soak them, they can catch fire or burn, making the cooking process tricky.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes! Simply use gluten free breadcrumbs or omit them if needed—you might want to add a little extra egg to help with binding in that case.

What can I substitute for fresh herbs if I don’t have any?

Fresh parsley and mint add brightness and freshness that dried herbs can’t fully replicate, but in a pinch, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs. Be mindful that the flavor will be less vibrant.

Final Thoughts

Making this Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Harissa and Mint Yogurt Recipe is like inviting vibrant Mediterranean sunshine into your home. It’s a dish bursting with bold flavors, contrasting textures, and a beautiful balance of spice and freshness. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to favorite for sharing around the table, so don’t hesitate to bring this culinary gem into your kitchen and enjoy every delicious bite!