Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was flipping through an old cookbook the other day, the pages crinkled with memories of warm summer evenings spent around the grill. That’s when I stumbled upon Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, a dish that not only transports you to the bustling streets of the Middle East but also makes any dinner effortless and unforgettable. With juicy ground chicken infused with aromatic spices and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce on the side, this gluten-free delight is perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering. Whether you whip it up for a quick family meal or add a fun twist to your next get-together, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Ready to turn your kitchen into a culinary haven? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together! Why is Chicken Kofta a Must-Try? Flavorful Experience: This Chicken Kofta is bursting with vibrant spices, creating a delightful harmony that will transport your taste buds straight to the Middle East. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip this dish up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Versatile Pairing: Serve it with stretchy pita bread, crisp salads, or aromatic rice pilaf, and you’ll have a complete meal that never gets old. Diet Friendly: Gluten-free and customizable, it appeals to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Its juicy texture and creamy garlic yogurt sauce are sure to impress guests, making it a standout choice for entertaining. Don’t forget to check out my beloved Garlic Parmesan Grilled or Cheesy Garlic Chicken for more delicious dinner ideas! Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Ingredients • Perfect for your next dinner adventure! For the Kofta • Ground Chicken – The star ingredient, providing a lean base for this flavorful dish; you can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option. • Onion – Finely chopped to enhance flavor and moisture, ensuring every bite is delicious. • Garlic – Minced for that robust aromatic intensity that elevates the whole dish. • Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh and vibrant color; cilantro works beautifully as a substitute if you prefer. • Ground Cumin – A key spice that brings warm earthiness; feel free to swap with ground coriander for a milder touch. • Ground Coriander – Complements the richness of the kofta; if you’re out, just use a little extra cumin. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for elevating the flavors; adjust to your taste preferences. For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce • Plain Yogurt – The creamy base of the sauce; try unflavored coconut yogurt for a delightful dairy-free alternative. • Lemon Juice – Adds a burst of brightness; lime juice can easily be swapped in for a similar effect. Feel free to gather these ingredients and start creating your very own Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce masterpiece! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, aiming for a cohesive mixture. You want it to be well blended but be careful not to overwork it, as this will help keep your Chicken Kofta tender. Step 2: Shape the Kofta Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking, and take portions of the chicken mixture to shape into elongated ovals, about 2–3 inches long. Aim for 10-12 kofta in total, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Once shaped, place them on a clean platter, ready for grilling. Step 3: Preheat the Grill Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, ensuring it’s nice and hot to create those beautiful grill marks. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil or a non-stick cooking spray. This step is essential for achieving that perfect golden color on your Chicken Kofta. Step 4: Grill the Kofta Carefully place the shaped kofta on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure they’re done, check for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). The kofta should be slightly charred on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside—an appetizing sight! Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce While the kofta is grilling, prepare your garlic yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt and lemon juice, mixing well. Add a pinch of salt to taste, and for an extra flavor kick, consider adding minced garlic. This simple but flavorful sauce complements the Chicken Kofta beautifully! Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Once the kofta are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Serve the hot Chicken Kofta alongside the creamy garlic yogurt sauce, and pair them with your favorite side dishes, like pita bread or fresh salads. The vibrant flavors are sure to bring joy to your dinner table! Expert Tips for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Don’t Overmix: Mixing the chicken too much can make the kofta tough. Handle the mixture gently for tender patties. Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to ensure the kofta reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption and juiciness. Spice It Up: Want a kick? Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the garlic yogurt sauce for extra heat without overpowering the dish. Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can replace parsley for a unique twist. Feel free to explore different flavor profiles! Grilling Technique: Keep the grill well-oiled to avoid sticking, ensuring beautiful grill marks and a perfect crisp on the outside of the kofta. Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Variations Feel free to get creative and customize your Chicken Kofta experience with these delightful variations! Ground Turkey: Swap the ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option without losing any flavor. Vegetable Boost: Add finely diced peppers or zucchini to the kofta mix for added texture and nutrition, making every bite more delightful. Cilantro Substitute: Prefer an herb twist? You can replace parsley with fresh cilantro for an exciting flavor profile that brightens up the dish. Cumin Kick: Switch ground cumin with a mix of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper to bring vibrant smokiness and a touch of heat. Herbed Yogurt Sauce: Transform the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing in fresh dill or mint, adding a refreshing layer that perfectly complements the kofta. Spicy Touch: For those who like a kick, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or harissa into the kofta mixture for a bit of fire. Baked Option: Instead of grilling, try baking the kofta at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, achieving a deliciously tender outcome. Wrap It Up: Serve the kofta in warm pita or flatbreads, alongside toppings like fresh lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes for a fun, hand-held meal! And if you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, don’t miss out on my tasty Bbq Chicken Tostadas or indulgent Glazed Salmon Garlic recipes that are sure to make your dinner table shine! What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce An unforgettable meal awaits as you explore delightful accompaniments to elevate your dining experience. Warm Pita Bread: Soft and fluffy, perfect for scooping up the kofta and creamy yogurt sauce, enhancing that Mediterranean vibe. Crisp Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mix of parsley, mint, and bulgur wheat, adding brightness and texture that complements the kofta beautifully. Spiced Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with aromatic spices and herbs, offering a flavorful base that pairs wonderfully with the juicy kofta. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds a charred, smoky flavor that makes each bite exciting and colorful on your plate. Zesty Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers dressed in lemon and yogurt provide a cool, creamy contrast, balancing the richness of the kofta perfectly. Hummus Dip: The velvety texture of hummus brings a rich creaminess that contrasts nicely with the grilled kofta, ensuring every bite removes the need for an extra side. Mint Tea: A warm cup of fragrant mint tea refreshes the palate, connecting the flavors of your meal with a soothing finish. Baklava: For dessert, the sweet layers of flaky pastry and honey create a luxurious end that your guests won’t forget. Embrace the possibilities and transform your meal into a delightful feast! Make Ahead Options These Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the kofta mixture and shape it into patties up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. For optimal freshness and flavor, keep the garlic yogurt sauce separate and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to eat, just grill the kofta straight from the fridge, ensuring you achieve that delicious golden-brown crust. With these make ahead options, you’ll enjoy a stress-free cooking experience while savoring an authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine at home! How to Store and Freeze Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the chicken kofta and garlic yogurt sauce separate for optimal freshness. Freezer: If you want to freeze the kofta, lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, cook thawed kofta in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes. Serve with the freshly made garlic yogurt sauce for the best flavor. Wrap/Seal: Make sure to wrap or seal any leftover garlic yogurt sauce in a tightly closed container; it can last up to 5 days in the fridge. Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ground chicken for my kofta? Absolutely! Look for fresh ground chicken with a bright pink color and minimal fat. If you can see dark spots or any discoloration, it’s best to avoid those packages. Additionally, opting for organic or free-range chicken can enhance the flavor and overall quality of your Chicken Kofta. How should I store leftover Chicken Kofta? For sure! Place any leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, separate the kofta from the garlic yogurt sauce before storing. This helps keep the kofta deliciously tender and prevents the sauce from absorbing excess moisture. Can I freeze Chicken Kofta for later use? Yes, you can! Lay the shaped but uncooked kofta on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until firm (about 1-2 hours). Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply grill them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. What do I do if my kofta falls apart during cooking? Very good question! If your kofta falls apart, it could be because they were too wet or overmixed. To fix this, add breadcrumbs or a little more ground chicken to the mixture to help bind them together. Shape the kofta gently and make sure to oil your grill to prevent sticking. If they’re still falling apart, try cooking them in a skillet on the stove instead of grilling them. Is this Chicken Kofta suitable for people with allergies? Definitely! This recipe is gluten-free and can be adjusted for dietary needs. If you have nut allergies, make sure your yogurt is nut-free. Always check labels for any packaged ingredients. For those who are lactose intolerant, feel free to substitute with unflavored coconut yogurt in the garlic yogurt sauce, and you’ll still enjoy delicious, creamy flavors! How can I make this dish spicier? The more the merrier! For a spicy kick, consider mixing cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the kofta mixture or the garlic yogurt sauce. Start with a sprinkle and adjust to your heat preference. This will add a lovely warmth without overwhelming the other beautiful flavors in your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. Savory Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce to Savor Discover a delicious Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce that transports you to the Middle East, perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: Middle EasternCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Kofta1 lb Ground Chicken Can substitute with ground turkey.1 medium Onion, finely chopped Enhances flavor and moisture.2 cloves Garlic, minced For robust aromatic intensity.1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped Cilantro works as a substitute.2 tsp Ground Cumin Can swap with ground coriander.1 tsp Ground Coriander Use extra cumin if out.1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce1 cup Plain Yogurt Unflavored coconut yogurt for dairy-free.1 tbsp Lemon Juice Lime juice can be swapped. Equipment GrillMixing bowlSmall BowlSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.Wet your hands with water and shape the mixture into elongated ovals, about 2–3 inches long, and place on a platter.Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates.Place the kofta on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).While grilling, prepare your garlic yogurt sauce by mixing yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.Once kofta are cooked, serve them with the garlic yogurt sauce and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1KoftaCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesHandle the chicken mixture gently to keep the kofta tender. Use a meat thermometer for safe consumption. Keep the grill well-oiled to achieve perfect grill marks. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
