Imagine a meal that brings together the bold flavors of spices, the juiciness of chicken, and the creamy freshness of yogurt all in one delicious bite. Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is that perfect dish! Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving something comforting, these tender kofta are sure to hit the spot. It’s an authentic taste of the Middle East that’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home.
Why you’ll love this dish
Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience! This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners after a long day. Plus, it’s budget-friendly since ground chicken is often cheaper than other meats. Families love it because kofta are easy to eat and pair perfectly with any side dish. Whether you’re looking for a bright, zesty flavor or a hearty dish, this recipe offers both.
"This kofta recipe has become a staple in my house. The kids ask for it weekly, and the yogurt sauce adds just the right touch!" – Home Cook
How this recipe comes together
Making Chicken Kofta is a delightful and straightforward process. You start by mixing the ingredients together, shaping them into small kofta, and cooking them to perfection. While the kofta are sizzling on the grill, you can whip up the creamy garlic yogurt sauce, making this dish a breeze. The whole process takes about 30 minutes, perfect for anyone who needs a hearty meal in a hurry.
What you’ll need
Here’s your shopping list for Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (2 for kofta and 2 for sauce)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute ground turkey or even add diced bell peppers for a different flavor twist.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix well until uniformly blended.
- Shape the mixture into small oval-shaped kofta.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and nicely browned.
- For the creamy garlic yogurt sauce, mix the yogurt, remaining minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
- Serve the kofta warm, accompanied by the creamy garlic yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
Best ways to enjoy it
Chicken Kofta pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve them with warm pita bread for wrapping, a fresh salad, or aromatic rice. A sprinkle of additional parsley or a drizzle of olive oil adds a lovely touch. This dish also shines at barbecues or gatherings—just set up a kofta platter and let everyone help themselves!
Storage and reheating tips
To preserve the deliciousness of your Chicken Kofta, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about 3-4 days. For extended storage, you can freeze the uncooked kofta for up to a month. Just remember to thaw them fully before cooking. Reheat the leftovers on a skillet over low heat, ensuring they’re heated through without drying out.
Helpful cooking tips
- For even more flavor, marinate the chicken mixture for 30 minutes before forming the kofta.
- Keep your hands wet when shaping the kofta to ensure they hold together better.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill or skillet; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that nice browned finish.
Creative twists
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Try adding some diced veggies to the kofta mixture for a nutrition boost, or swap the yogurt for a dairy-free option, like coconut yogurt. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with spices—from sumac to paprika—to lend unique flavors.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is about 10-15 minutes, and cooking takes around 10-15 minutes, making it quick and easy.Can I substitute ground chicken with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well, or even ground beef or lamb if you prefer a richer taste.How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days. If frozen, they can last up to a month.
Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its blend of spices and creamy sauce, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!
PrintChicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
A delicious blend of spices and juicy chicken, served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce for a comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (2 for kofta and 2 for sauce)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix well until uniformly blended.
- Shape the mixture into small oval-shaped kofta.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and nicely browned.
- For the creamy garlic yogurt sauce, mix the yogurt, remaining minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
- Serve the kofta warm, accompanied by the creamy garlic yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or add diced bell peppers for a flavor twist. Pair with warm pita bread, fresh salad, or aromatic rice.