The Kabachnik–Fields Reaction: A Key Transformation in Organophosphorus Chemistry

The Kabachnik–Fields (KF) reaction is a versatile three-component method for the condensation of amines, carbonyl compounds, and P–H reagents, enabling efficient synthesis of α-aminophosphonates—key bioactive and functional molecules. This review critically examines the literature from the last 25 years. However, with regard to mechanistic aspects, selected earlier seminal studies are also considered when necessary to provide a coherent and comprehensive mechanistic framework. Advances in catalyst-free methodologies, sustainable synthetic approaches, and Lewis and Brønsted acid catalysis are discussed, alongside developments in enantioselective KF reactions in the presence of chiral metal complexes or organocatalysts.