Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a delightful dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and comforting textures, look no further than this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe. Juicy, spiced ground chicken koftas are grilled to perfection, then paired with a cooling garlic-infused yogurt sauce that balances every bite with tang and creaminess. This recipe is a wonderful celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, casual gatherings, or whenever you just want a satisfying meal with a little Middle Eastern flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward, wholesome ingredients is the secret to nailing this dish. Each component plays a key role: the ground chicken offers lean protein and tender texture, fresh herbs bring aromatic brightness, and warm spices add depth and warmth. The garlic yogurt sauce, with its tang and subtle spice, complements the koftas brilliantly.

• Ground Chicken: Use fresh or thawed ground chicken for juicy and tender koftas.
• Onion: Finely chopped to add moisture and a subtle sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced to infuse the koftas and yogurt sauce with robust flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and vibrant color.
• Ground Cumin: Offers earthy, warm spice that’s essential in kofta seasoning.
• Ground Coriander: Brings a light, lemony aroma that brightens the mixture.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
• Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth.
• Plain Yogurt: Base of the creamy garlic sauce, providing tang and richness.
• Lemon Juice: Gives the yogurt sauce a fresh, zesty lift.
• Olive Oil: For grilling, imparting a subtle fruity note and ensuring the koftas don’t stick.

How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Kofta Ingredients

Start by placing the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Take your time to mix everything thoroughly—using your hands is best—to create a uniform mixture with all the spices and herbs perfectly distributed, promising a flavorful bite in every kofta.

Step 2: Shape the Koftas

Wet your hands with cold water to prevent sticking, then grab handfuls of the mixture and mold them into elongated oval shapes. This classic kofta shape ensures even cooking and makes them easy to grill and serve. Keep the size consistent so they cook uniformly, usually about the length of your palm.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill and Prepare for Cooking

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough for a beautiful sear. Brush the surface lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and to infuse the koftas with subtle richness as they grill. A properly heated grill also helps lock in the juices so your koftas stay moist and tender.

Step 4: Grill the Koftas to Perfection

Place the koftas carefully on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown crust that forms naturally with grilling. It’s important to allow them to cook thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) to ensure safety and optimal juiciness. Avoid pressing down on them to keep the juices locked inside.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the koftas are grilling, whisk together plain yogurt, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This refreshing sauce will cool down the spice from the koftas while adding a creamy, tangy layer of flavor that ties the dish together beautifully.

How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top of the koftas and sauce to boost the fragrance and visual appeal. A few thin slices of red onion or a dusting of smoked paprika can also add a pop of color and subtle complexity to this already vibrant dish.

Side Dishes

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe pairs spectacularly with warm pita bread, fluffy basmati rice, or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad. These sides help balance the richness of the kofta and sauce with fresh, contrasting textures and flavors that make the meal hearty yet refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For something fun and casual, serve the koftas on skewers alongside small bowls of the garlic yogurt sauce for dipping. Alternatively, create a beautiful platter with koftas nestled on a bed of greens alongside colorful roasted vegetables. Presentation is key to making this dish feel as festive as it tastes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, place the koftas and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers and refrigerate. Properly stored, the koftas remain tender and flavorful for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the magic of this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe even the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked shaped koftas by placing them on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen raw koftas keep best for up to 2 months, making it convenient to have a tasty meal waiting on busy days. Defrost thoroughly in the refrigerator before grilling.

Reheating

To reheat cooked koftas, use a grill pan or oven at moderate heat to warm through while maintaining their juicy texture and crisp exterior. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery. The garlic yogurt sauce is best served fresh but can be stirred and chilled for a quick refresh if refrigerated.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe does not include any wheat-based ingredients by default, so it’s naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free sides if needed.

How spicy is this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe?

The recipe offers a mild, warm spice thanks to cumin and coriander, without being hot or overwhelming. You can easily increase the heat by adding chili powder or fresh chili to the mix if you love more kick.

Can I bake the koftas instead of grilling?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Place the shaped koftas on a lined baking sheet and bake at 190°C (375°F) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked and golden brown.

Is it okay to use Greek yogurt for the garlic yogurt sauce?

Greek yogurt works beautifully, adding a thicker and creamier texture to the sauce that complements the koftas wonderfully. Feel free to choose your favorite yogurt style.

Can I prepare the kofta mixture in advance?

Definitely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the koftas a few hours before cooking. Keep them covered in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld even more before grilling.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that truly brings people together around the table. Its combination of juicy, spiced chicken and cool, vibrant sauce is irresistible and full of heartwarming flavor. If you’re looking to add a deliciously different recipe to your meal rotation, I can’t recommend this enough. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your home!

Print