There’s something enchanting about the smoke and spices wafting through my kitchen as I prepare Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. When I first discovered this dish, I couldn’t believe how effortlessly it blended bold Middle Eastern flavors into a quick weeknight dinner! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up juicy kofta that bursts with flavor and pairs beautifully with a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce.
What I love most is how versatile this dish is—whether you’re entertaining friends or just craving a cozy night in, you can customize the spices and add-ins to suit your palate. Imagine the tender, spiced ground chicken, perfectly charred and served alongside fresh salads or warm pita, all while being gluten-free! This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms your dinner table into a festive culinary escape. Let’s dive in and make some magic happen in the kitchen!
Why Love Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?
Delicious and aromatic, this dish brings a taste of the Middle East right to your kitchen.
Quick to make in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Customizable flavors mean you can tailor the spices or add veggies for a personal touch.
Gluten-free options let everyone enjoy without worry, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Versatile enough to serve in warm pita or as a platter with salads, it fits any occasion perfectly!
Chicken Kofta Ingredients
• To create your mouthwatering Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, gather these essential ingredients.
For the Kofta
- Ground Chicken – Your main protein source; ground turkey makes a lighter option.
- Chopped Onion – Adds moisture and flavor; best results come from using yellow or white onion.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances flavor and aroma; fresh garlic provides the deepest taste.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and color; you can substitute with mint for a unique twist.
- Ground Cumin – Introduces warmth and earthy tones; feel free to use ground coriander or garam masala in its place.
- Ground Coriander – Contributes refreshing citrus notes; omit if there are allergies.
- Salt – Boosts overall flavor; adjust according to your dietary needs.
- Black Pepper – Adds a nice spice; freshly cracked is best for maximum flavor.
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- Plain Yogurt – Forms the creamy base for the sauce; Greek yogurt will yield a thicker consistency.
- Lemon Juice – Balances the richness of the yogurt; a splash of vinegar can work as a substitute.
- Olive Oil – Used for grilling; any high smoke point oil, such as vegetable oil, can also be used.
Prepare these ingredients to experience the culinary delight of Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce!
How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
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Combine ingredients in a large bowl. Start by mixing the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley until they’re evenly blended, creating a flavorful base for your kofta.
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Season the mixture. Add in the ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all the spices are mixed thoroughly to enhance the taste of the chicken.
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Shape the kofta. Wet your hands with water and shape the mixture into elongated oval pieces, known as kofta, making sure they’re compact but not too dense.
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Preheat your grill or grill pan. Set it over medium-high heat, and brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and to create a delightful char on the kofta.
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Grill the kofta. Place the shaped kofta on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through, with a nice char.
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Prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, mix the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This creamy sauce will complement the kofta beautifully!
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Serve it right! Plate the hot kofta with your delicious garlic yogurt sauce and any preferred sides, like rice or a fresh salad, for a delightful meal.
Optional: Garnish with additional parsley or mint for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement this flavorful Arabic dish.
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Fluffy Couscous: Its light texture absorbs the garlicky yogurt sauce beautifully, adding a delightful contrast to the savory kofta. A sprinkle of herbs makes it extra refreshing!
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Grilled Vegetables: Smoky zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant provide a wonderful texture and vibrant color, enhancing the meal with a healthy punch of nutrition.
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Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing parsley and bulgur salad brings a burst of freshness and tang, balancing the spices in the kofta with its lemony notes.
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Warm Pita Bread: Soft pita acts as a perfect vessel for the kofta and yogurt sauce, inviting your guests to scoop and savor every bite. The warm bread enhances the whole experience!
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Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy and seasoned, these add a satisfying crunch and contrast to the kofta, making your table a feast for both the eyes and palate.
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Mint Lemonade: The bright, zesty flavors of this refreshing beverage accentuate the meal, cleansing your palate between bites of the rich and savory chicken kofta.
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Baklava: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich, flaky dessert. The honey and nut flavors are a wonderful way to round out the spices of the kofta.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover chicken kofta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze cooked kofta for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken kofta in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This ensures they maintain their juicy texture and flavor.
Yogurt Sauce: Keep the garlic yogurt sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving again, as it may separate over time.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the kofta mixture (ground chicken, onions, garlic, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to enhance the flavors. Simply keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. You can also make the garlic yogurt sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge, where it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just shape the kofta, grill them until cooked through, and enjoy the same mouthwatering experience with minimal effort!
Chicken Kofta Variations
Embrace creativity in the kitchen! These delightful twists will inspire you to elevate your Chicken Kofta.
- Turkey Kofta: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in chopped veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to amp up the nutrients and add a pop of color.
- Fresh Herb Swap: Instead of parsley, use fresh mint or cilantro for a refreshing change that enhances the Middle Eastern flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist that ignites your taste buds.
- Savory Feta: Crumble feta cheese into the kofta mixture for a creamy surprise and a depth of flavor in each bite.
- BBQ Twist: Brush kofta with your favorite barbecue sauce while grilling for a smoky, sweet flavor that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones to keep this dish accessible for everyone.
- Baked Delight: Instead of grilling, bake the kofta on a lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for a healthier, easy-to-clean option that holds onto all the juicy goodness.
Enjoy experimenting while bringing inviting aromas to your kitchen!
Expert Tips for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is nice and hot before placing the kofta on it; this prevents sticking and gives that perfect char.
• Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the ground chicken just until combined; overworking the meat can lead to a dense texture that loses that tender bite.
• Consider Baking: If grilling isn’t an option, bake the kofta at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway for an evenly cooked result.
• Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust spices to your taste; add more cumin for warmth or a pinch of chili powder for a kick in the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce.
• Serve Fresh: Kofta tastes best right off the grill; serve immediately alongside the yogurt sauce to capture those vibrant flavors!
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my ground chicken is fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for a pinkish hue without any dark spots or a strong odor. The fresher the chicken, the better your kofta will taste!
How do I store leftover chicken kofta?
For best results, store leftover chicken kofta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I freeze chicken kofta?
Very! To freeze chicken kofta, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be saved for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What if my kofta is falling apart on the grill?
No worries! If your kofta is falling apart, this may be due to over-mixing or lack of binding ingredients. To fix it, try adding a small amount of breadcrumbs or an egg to the mixture to help hold everything together. Ensure your grill is hot enough to create a sear on the outside, which helps hold the shape too.
Can I adjust the spices in the kofta?
Certainly! The beauty of Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce lies in its customizable flavors. Feel free to increase spices like cumin or add a dash of cayenne for a kick. Alternatively, you can experiment with different herbs such as dill or cilantro for a unique twist. Enjoy making it uniquely yours!
Is this recipe suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Definitely! This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce can easily be made gluten-free. Just make sure to use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs if you decide to add any for binding, and serve it with gluten-free sides, like rice or salads. Everyone will be able to enjoy this dish together!
Delicious Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine ingredients in a large bowl, mixing ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley until evenly blended.
- Season the mixture with ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
- Wet hands and shape the mixture into elongated oval pieces.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Grill the kofta for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Serve hot kofta with garlic yogurt sauce and preferred sides.