Mini Chicken Kofta Skewers with Yogurt Ranch Dip

Kofta usually leans on warm spices, but this mini version keeps things gentle — grated onion, garlic, parsley and just a pinch of cumin and allspice season the ground chicken, which is shaped onto small skewers and pan-seared until juicy. A cool Greek yogurt dip with lemon, dill and a little garlic powder rounds things out with a flavor that feels a lot like a favorite ranch dip.

The mild spicing and familiar dip make this a genuinely kid-friendly Middle Eastern-inspired dinner, easy enough for kids to pick up and dip themselves. Ground chicken keeps the koftas lean while delivering solid protein, which is why this dish carries a high-protein tag — helpful for hungry kids and teens after a long day.

If skewers feel fussy for small hands, just shape the mixture into little patties instead and pan-sear the same way.