Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle of chicken on the grill is music to my ears, evoking memories of sunlit gatherings and savory aromas wafting through the air. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, a vibrant dish that takes you right to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine. This easy-to-make, gluten-free delight combines juicy ground chicken with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, all topped off with a creamy, tangy garlic yogurt sauce that elevates every bite. Not only does this recipe promise a quick prep time—perfect for busy weeknights—but it’s also major crowd-pleaser that transforms any dinner into a feast. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why is Chicken Kofta a Must-Try? Bursting with Flavor: Each bite of Chicken Kofta is a journey through vibrant Middle Eastern spices, ensuring an explosion of taste that will leave you wanting more. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up this gluten-free delight in no time, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights. Versatile Options: The recipe beautifully accommodates substitutions, allowing you to switch ground chicken for turkey or even make it dairy-free with alternative yogurts. Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these kofta effortlessly become the star of your meal, especially when paired with fresh sides like grilled vegetables or a crisp salad. Elevated Dining Experience: Drizzled with creamy garlic yogurt sauce, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a delightful culinary experience that even the pickiest eaters will love. Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Ingredients For the Kofta • Ground Chicken – The primary protein, offering a lighter alternative to traditional meats. • Onion – Adds moisture and sweetness; finely chop for an even texture throughout. • Garlic – Freshly minced for optimal flavor enhancement; don’t skip this key ingredient! • Fresh Parsley – Brings brightness; feel free to swap with cilantro for a different taste. • Ground Cumin – Infuses a warm, earthy flavor that is a hallmark of Middle Eastern cuisine. • Ground Coriander – Delivers citrusy notes; can be replaced with curry powder for a unique twist. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to your personal taste preferences. For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce • Plain Yogurt – Base for the sauce; substitute with coconut or cashew yogurt to make it dairy-free. • Lemon Juice – Adds tanginess; for an alternative kick, vinegar works quite well too. • Minced Garlic – Optional, but highly recommended for an extra punch in the yogurt sauce. Serving Suggestions • Pita Bread – Perfect for wrapping and enhancing the meal experience. • Fresh Salad – A crisp addition that complements the kofta nicely. • Grilled Vegetables – For a hearty side that matches the flavors of the kofta. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Step 1: Prep Ingredients Begin by gathering all ingredients and measuring them out. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic for the kofta mix. Chop the fresh parsley and set it aside. This preparation helps streamline the cooking process, allowing you to focus on creating your delicious Chicken Kofta without interruptions. Step 2: Mix Chicken Mixture In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and spices including cumin and coriander. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken kofta with aromatic goodness and should take about 3-4 minutes of gentle mixing until well incorporated. Step 3: Shape Kofta With clean, wet hands, portion out the mixture and shape it into elongated oval forms, roughly 2-3 inches long. Aim for about 10-12 kofta. The wet hands will prevent sticking and make it easier to shape. Once complete, arrange the kofta on a plate, ready for grilling, while ensuring they maintain their shape. Step 4: Grill Kofta Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, which should take around 5 minutes. Cook the kofta for 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and achieve an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Look for a crispy exterior and ensure they’re cooked through for a juicy and flavorful Chicken Kofta experience. Step 5: Prepare Yogurt Sauce Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the plain yogurt with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. If you prefer a garlicky punch, add minced garlic to the yogurt mixture. This creamy garlic yogurt sauce will beautifully complement the kofta, providing a tangy balance to the spices, so let it sit as you finish cooking. Step 6: Serve Once the chicken kofta are perfectly grilled, serve them warm on a platter. Drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce over the kofta and accompany with fresh pita bread, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. This chicken kofta dish with garlic yogurt sauce is not just delightful to taste but visually appealing as well, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. Expert Tips for Chicken Kofta Mix with Care: Use your hands to mix the Chicken Kofta ingredients. This ensures even spice distribution and lets you connect with the food, enhancing flavor and texture. Check Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the kofta using a meat thermometer, aiming for 75°C/165°F. This prevents the disappointment of undercooked chicken. Add Moisture: If you choose ground turkey, consider adding grated onion or a drizzle of olive oil to keep the kofta moist and flavorful. Spice It Up: For those who enjoy heat, mix cayenne pepper or fresh chili into the garlic yogurt sauce for an exciting kick that pairs beautifully with the chicken kofta. Rest Before Serving: Allow the kofta to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain their juiciness and makes them even more tender when served. What to Serve with Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce The delightful harmony of spices and creamy flavors makes every bite of this dish an invitation to explore a full meal. Fluffy Quinoa: A nutty, gluten-free grain that absorbs the flavors of the spices, creating a satisfying base for your kofta. It’s light yet filling, providing a perfect balance. Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing cucumber-yogurt dip brightens the meal with a cool contrast, enhancing the rich flavors of your kofta with every scoop. Refreshing Tabouli Salad: Packed with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur, this salad delivers a zesty crunch that complements the kofta beautifully and adds a touch of freshness. Grilled Flatbread: Soft and warm, this bread is perfect for wrapping around the kofta, adding a delightful chewy texture that makes each bite oh-so-satisfying. Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal veggies adds depth and variety to your plate, while caramelized edges offer a sweet contrast to the savory kofta. Minted Yogurt Dressing: Substituting the garlic yogurt sauce with a herby mint version provides a twist that elevates the palate and perfectly accompanies the warm spices of the kofta. Red Wine or Sparkling Water: A glass of smooth red wine can enhance the flavors of the dish, or opt for refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon for a non-alcoholic pairing. These options create a feast that celebrates the flavorful essence of Chicken Kofta, making your meal a balanced and delightful experience! Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe, as there are countless ways to customize it to suit your taste! Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner protein option without sacrificing flavor. Dairy-Free Yogurt: Use coconut or cashew yogurt in the garlic sauce for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that still delivers on taste. Extra Herbs: Add finely chopped mint or cilantro to the kofta mixture for an aromatic twist that brightens every bite. Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the kofta for a delightful spice that energizes the dish. Consider pairing these spicy kofta with a cooling salad for contrast. The freshness of cucumber or a minty yogurt sauce can complement the heat beautifully. Bell Pepper Addition: Diced bell peppers mixed into the chicken can enhance the texture and introduce a sweet crunch to the kofta. Grilled Veggie Medley: Toss some seasonal vegetables like zucchini or eggplant on the grill alongside the kofta—this tasty duo elevates your meal’s flavor profile. Smokey Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the kofta mix to impart a warm, smoky flavor that’s sure to impress any guest. Craving something truly different? You might find that adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika enhances dishes you never expected, like Garlic Butter Steak Bites for a great twist at dinner! Explore these variations and let your imagination run wild—your Chicken Kofta dinner will never be the same! 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 to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: Freeze the shaped but uncooked kofta on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, cook frozen kofta directly from the freezer in a preheated grill or skillet for about 8-10 minutes per side until heated through. Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Store any leftover garlic yogurt sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir before serving as the ingredients may separate upon sitting. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the chicken kofta mixture and shape the kofta up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic yogurt sauce up to 3 days ahead of time; simply refrigerate it in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, grill the kofta straight from the fridge, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This way, you’ll have a quick, delicious dinner ready to serve that’s just as flavorful and satisfying as if made fresh! Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ground chicken for the kofta? Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for meat that is pinkish in color with minimal dark spots. A lean ground chicken works well, but a mix with higher fat content can yield juicier kofta. Opt for fresh ground meat from a reputable source or your local butcher for the best flavor. How should I store leftover Chicken Kofta? To maintain the quality of your chicken kofta, place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat or use a microwave until heated through, usually about 2-3 minutes. Can I freeze the Chicken Kofta? Very! To freeze, shape the uncooked kofta and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents sticking and keeps them distinct. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, grill them directly from frozen, adding about 2-3 extra minutes per side. What if my kofta are too dry? If you find your kofta turning out dry, it might be due to overcooking or using lean ground chicken without enough fat. To fix this, add a bit of grated onion or a teaspoon of olive oil to the meat mixture to enhance moisture. Also, remember to check for doneness with a meat thermometer; cooking to the right temperature is key! Can I make the yogurt sauce dairy-free? Definitely! To create a dairy-free garlic yogurt sauce, swap the plain yogurt for coconut or cashew yogurt. Both options bring a creamy texture while providing a different flavor profile—coconut offers a subtle sweetness, while cashew yogurt has a nice richness. Just be sure to mix in fresh minced garlic and lemon juice for that tangy zing! Are there any allergies to consider with this recipe? It’s important to be mindful of common allergens. For those with dairy allergies, opt for the dairy-free yogurt substitutes mentioned earlier. Also, check the ground spices for any allergy concerns, particularly if you decide to incorporate alternative ingredients. Always customize the recipe to accommodate your guests’ dietary restrictions for a safe and enjoyable meal! Savor Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Tonight! Enjoy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 koftaCourse: DinnerCuisine: Middle EasternCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Kofta1 pound Ground Chicken Primary protein offering a lighter alternative.1 medium Onion Finely chopped for texture.2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for flavor enhancement.1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped; can be swapped with cilantro.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Warm, earthy flavor.1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Citrusy notes; optional substitution with curry powder.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce1 cup Plain Yogurt Base for the sauce; dairy-free alternatives available.1 tablespoon Lemon Juice For tanginess; vinegar can be substituted.2 cloves Minced Garlic Optional, for added flavor.Serving Suggestions4 pieces Pita Bread Perfect for wrapping.1 bowl Fresh Salad Crisp addition to the meal.2 cups Grilled Vegetables Hearty side matching kofta flavors. Equipment Grill or Grill PanMixing bowlMeat thermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsGather all ingredients and measure them out. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic for the kofta mix. Chop the fresh parsley.In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and spices including cumin and coriander. Mix thoroughly.With wet hands, shape the mixture into elongated oval forms, about 2-3 inches long, aiming for 10-12 kofta.Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the kofta for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.In a small bowl, mix the yogurt with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Optional: add minced garlic for extra flavor.Serve the grilled kofta warm on a platter, drizzled with garlic yogurt sauce and accompanied by pita, salad, or grilled vegetables. Nutrition Serving: 1koftaCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, use a meat thermometer to check doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Allow the kofta to rest before serving for juiciness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!