Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
If you are craving a dish that blends vibrant spices with creamy, tangy coolness, this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. These juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken koftas wrapped in aromatic herbs come alive when paired with a luscious garlic yogurt sauce that adds the perfect zing. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe delivers bold flavors and comforting textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this dish sing. Each item plays an important role—offering balance, texture, and those unmistakable Mediterranean flavors that make this recipe shine.
- Ground Chicken: Provides a juicy, lean base that soaks up all the spices beautifully.
- Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to keep the kofta tender.
- Garlic: Infuses the mixture with that unmistakable punch of aromatic flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of green color to brighten the dish.
- Ground Cumin: Offers a warm, earthy tone that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- Ground Coriander: Adds a hint of citrusy brightness to lift the flavors.
- Salt: Essential to enhance all the natural flavors in the meat and spices.
- Black Pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth without overpowering.
- Plain Yogurt: The creamy base for the garlic yogurt sauce, cooling and tangy.
- Lemon Juice: Adds zest and balances the richness of the yogurt sauce.
- Olive Oil: Used for grilling, it prevents sticking and adds a silky finish.
How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by mixing the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley in a large bowl. This blend creates a fresh and flavorful foundation for your koftas. The parsley not only boosts the flavor but also adds a lovely green hue that makes the koftas look as good as they taste.
Step 2: Season with Spices
Next, add ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. These spices are the heart of the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe, providing that classic Middle Eastern flavor. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with even seasoning.
Step 3: Shape the Koftas
Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking, then form the chicken mixture into elongated oval shapes. These koftas hold together nicely, and their shape helps them cook evenly. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; rustic shapes add to their charm!
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush it with olive oil. This step is crucial; it prevents the koftas from sticking and gives them a beautiful golden-brown crust that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Grill the Koftas
Place the koftas on the hot grill and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to see gorgeous grill marks and a cooked-through interior, juicy yet firm. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is guaranteed to make you even more excited to dive in.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While your koftas grill, mix together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This simple sauce is the ultimate cooling companion, with the tang from the lemon and the creamy garlic undertones bringing the whole dish together perfectly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the koftas are cooked, serve them hot alongside that luscious garlic yogurt sauce. This final step completes the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe, making it ready for your plate and your palate’s delight.
How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra parsley or mint leaves sprinkled on top add a splash of color and a refreshing kick. A light drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of smoked paprika can also elevate the dish’s appearance and flavor.
Side Dishes
These koftas pair wonderfully with simple sides such as warm pita bread, fragrant basmati rice, or a crisp cucumber salad. Each side complements the spices and creaminess of the yogurt sauce without overpowering the delicate chicken flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the koftas as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter with olives, roasted veggies, and hummus. Alternatively, try them as a hearty filling for wraps or pita pockets alongside crunchy veggies and extra sauce for an irresistible handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover koftas and garlic yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them apart preserves the texture and freshness, ensuring you enjoy the dish just as much the next day.
Freezing
Chicken koftas freeze well. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep for up to two months, allowing you to enjoy this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the koftas overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm them in a preheated oven or on a grill pan until heated through. Reheat the yogurt sauce gently at room temperature or stir before serving, ensuring it stays creamy and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lean substitute that works well for koftas. Just keep an eye on moisture levels, as turkey can be a bit drier, so adding a bit of olive oil to the mix helps keep things juicy.
How spicy is this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe?
This recipe offers mild spicing that’s flavorful but not hot. You can easily adjust the pepper or add chili flakes if you prefer a little heat, making it customizable for every palate.
Can I bake the koftas instead of grilling?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill or grill pan, bake the koftas on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Is the garlic yogurt sauce suitable for vegans?
Traditional yogurt means the sauce is not vegan, but you can swap in plant-based yogurt alternatives. Just be sure to select one with a similar creamy texture for the best results.
What can I use instead of fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley isn’t available, fresh cilantro or mint can be great alternatives, each giving a slightly different but equally delightful flavor to your koftas.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes that brings together simple ingredients in an unforgettable way. It’s warm, inviting, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Once you cook it, I’m sure it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
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Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe offers a flavorful, juicy grilled chicken meatball experience with aromatic spices and a refreshing creamy sauce made from yogurt and lemon juice. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal that combines Middle Eastern-inspired flavors with simple grilling technique.
Ingredients
For the Kofta
- 500 grams ground chicken (about 1 pound)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Mix these ingredients well so the aromatics are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Add Spices and Seasoning: Add ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Mix thoroughly again to incorporate all the spices and flavors uniformly.
- Shape the Kofta: Wet your hands to prevent sticking and form the mixture into elongated oval shapes, about the size of a small sausage or meatball, ensuring they hold together well.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, brush the cooking surface lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a nice sear.
- Grill the Kofta: Place the kofta on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. Grill until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through internally, reaching a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until smooth to create a tangy and creamy sauce to complement the kofta.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken kofta and serve them with the garlic yogurt sauce alongside your favorite side dishes such as rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Notes
- Using wet hands when shaping kofta prevents the mixture from sticking and helps in forming uniform shapes.
- Adjust the salt and spices according to your taste preference.
- Ensure the kofta are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- This recipe pairs well with warm pita bread, couscous, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lamb for variation.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or stovetop skillet can be used as alternatives for cooking the kofta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
