I absolutely love sharing this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that instantly feels like a warm hug on a plate. The juicy, spiced chicken koftas paired with a tangy, creamy garlic yogurt sauce create a flavor combination that’s just irresistible. Every bite delivers a burst of savory goodness, and I find it’s the perfect dish to bring a little Middle Eastern-inspired magic into any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
What really excites me about this recipe is the balance of bold, aromatic spices with the cool creaminess of the garlic yogurt sauce. The ground cumin and coriander in the koftas give them a deep, earthy flavor, while the fresh parsley adds brightness and freshness. Then the garlicky, lemony yogurt sauce perfectly complements the juicy grilled chicken by cutting through the richness with zingy tang. It’s a flavor profile that never gets old to me.
Another reason I keep coming back to this recipe is how simple and quick it is to prepare. I love meals that feel special but don’t take all day, and these koftas fit the bill perfectly—they’re ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether I’m cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a small gathering, I know this dish will impress without leaving me stressed. Plus, grilling the koftas gives them beautiful char marks and that slightly smoky flavor that always feels extra satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, but each one plays an important role in building the perfect Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe. From the tender ground chicken to the fresh parsley and vibrant lemon juice, the balance of flavors and textures comes together beautifully.
- Ground Chicken: Using 500 grams (about 1 pound) gives you juicy and tender koftas with a mild flavor that carries spices well.
- Onion: One medium, finely chopped for moisture and a subtle sweetness that melds into the mixture.
- Garlic: Three cloves minced to add that signature garlicky punch to both the koftas and the yogurt sauce.
- Fresh Parsley: A quarter cup finely chopped to introduce a refreshing herbal note and a nice pop of color.
- Ground Cumin: One teaspoon brings warm, earthy undertones that are essential for authentic flavor.
- Ground Coriander: One teaspoon adds a subtle citrusy brightness that lightens the meat’s richness.
- Salt: One teaspoon or to taste to enhance and balance all the other ingredients.
- Black Pepper: Half a teaspoon or more for a gentle heat and spice.
- Plain Yogurt: One cup for the cooling, creamy garlic sauce that’s the perfect accompaniment.
- Lemon Juice: Two tablespoons, freshly squeezed, to give the sauce a vibrant tang.
- Olive Oil: Two tablespoons for grilling, helping the koftas develop a beautiful crust.
Directions
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, I combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley. I make sure everything is finely chopped so the flavors blend beautifully.
Step 2: Next, I add the ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper into the bowl. Using clean hands, I mix everything thoroughly until well combined—the mixture should hold together easily when shaped.
Step 3: I wet my hands slightly to prevent sticking and shape the mixture into elongated oval koftas, about the size of a small sausage. Consistent size helps them cook evenly.
Step 4: Then, I preheat my grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat and brush it with olive oil to keep the koftas from sticking and to help achieve a lovely sear.
Step 5: I arrange the koftas on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. I watch for a nicely browned exterior and ensure they’re cooked all the way through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Step 6: While the koftas are grilling, I prepare the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. I like to taste it and adjust the lemon or salt to balance the flavors perfectly.
Step 7: Once cooked, I serve the koftas hot, drizzled or dolloped generously with the garlic yogurt sauce alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe makes about 4 generous servings, perfect for a family meal or sharing with friends. The prep time is roughly 10-15 minutes, mainly chopping and mixing ingredients, while the cooking takes about 15 minutes on the grill. Including mixing and resting time, the total time is about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those nights when you want something flavorful but don’t want to spend hours cooking.
How to Serve This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
When it comes to serving these koftas, I love pairing them with something that complements their savory spices and the cooling garlic sauce. A fluffy bed of basmati rice or warm pita bread works perfectly to soak up all those delicious flavors, while a simple cucumber and tomato salad adds a refreshing crunch to balance the meal.
For garnishes, I often sprinkle extra fresh parsley or a dash of smoked paprika on top to give the dish extra color and aroma. Arranging the koftas neatly on a platter with a small bowl of the yogurt sauce nearby encourages everyone to help themselves and creates a welcoming, friendly vibe at the table.
I find that this dish pairs exceptionally well with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, which highlight the herbal and lemon notes in the sauce. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon or mint-infused iced tea provides a refreshing contrast. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, serving these koftas warm and fresh off the grill makes all the difference, and I recommend portion sizes of 2-3 koftas per person depending on appetite.
Variations
If you want to switch things up, I’ve found this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For example, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lamb for a richer flavor profile. Just be mindful that lamb tends to be fattier, so it might need a bit less oil during grilling.
For those following gluten-free or dairy-free diets, you can easily adapt the recipe by using a coconut or almond milk-based yogurt alternative for the sauce. The spices and fragrant herbs shine through no matter the choice, and you can even experiment with adding a hint of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Different cooking methods also work well with this recipe. If you don’t have a grill or grill pan available, baking the koftas at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or pan-searing them in a hot skillet gives great results. Just make sure to turn them halfway through so they brown evenly.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover chicken koftas and garlic yogurt sauce, I recommend storing them separately in airtight containers to keep the flavors fresh. The koftas will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, while the yogurt sauce is best used within 2 to 3 days to maintain its vibrant taste and texture.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the grilled chicken koftas, which makes meal prep a breeze. Allow the koftas to cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. I advise freezing the yogurt sauce separately or making a fresh batch upon thawing for the best flavor.
Reheating
When reheating the koftas, I prefer to use an oven or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help retain their juiciness and crisp up the outside again. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make them a little soggy. Avoid reheating the yogurt sauce—it’s best served cold or at room temperature, so just add a fresh dollop when serving.
FAQs
Can I make the chicken koftas ahead of time?
Yes! I often prepare the kofta mixture up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just shape and grill them when you’re ready to eat. This saves a lot of time without compromising flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, a cast-iron skillet or regular frying pan works great. Just heat it over medium-high heat, add a little olive oil, and cook the koftas, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe has warm spices like cumin and coriander, which provide depth but aren’t hot or spicy. If you want more heat, you can add chili powder or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
How do I know when the koftas are cooked properly?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the recommended internal temperature for ground poultry. Alternatively, you can cut into one to ensure the meat is no longer pink and juices run clear.
Can I make the garlic yogurt sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce actually tastes great when it’s had some time to let the flavors meld. I recommend preparing it a few hours ahead or even the day before and keeping it refrigerated until serving.
Conclusion
I hope you get as much joy from making and eating this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe as I do. It’s a dish that always brings people together with its vibrant flavors, simple ingredients, and quick preparation. Give it a try for your next meal and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation—I promise it won’t disappoint!
