As I stood by the grill, the intoxicating aroma of spices wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling Middle Eastern market. This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and tradition. Combining lean ground chicken with fragrant herbs and spices, these kofta patties are quick to prepare and are grilled to juicy perfection in just 30 minutes. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy wholesome, homemade food without the fuss. Whether you’re serving a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a special gathering, these juicy kofta served alongside a creamy garlic yogurt sauce will be a hit. Curious about how to elevate your cooking game with this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!
Why is this Chicken Kofta a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal cooking skills, allowing anyone to shine in the kitchen.
Juicy Flavor: The blend of spices ensures a burst of authentic taste, making each bite unforgettable.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ground chicken for turkey or spice up your yogurt sauce with a kick, making it adaptable to your taste.
Quick Cooking: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these kofta with pita, tabbouleh, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal that will impress your guests, just like my Gooey Cheesy Garlic dish!
Health-Conscious: Being gluten-free, this dish caters to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty meal.
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Ingredients
Discover the key components that make this dish a flavorful delight!
For the Kofta
- Ground Chicken – The main protein for juicy kofta; lean ground chicken is recommended for a lighter dish.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and moisture; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- Garlic – Provides a robust flavor; fresh minced garlic is much better than powdered for this recipe.
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish and adds color; cilantro can be a flavorful substitute.
- Ground Cumin – An aromatic spice that enhances the overall taste; turmeric can work in a pinch but will change the flavor slightly.
- Ground Coriander – Contributes a citrus-like flavor; if unavailable, ground black pepper can be used, though the taste will be different.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- Plain Yogurt – The base for the sauce, providing creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker texture or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a zesty acidity to balance the flavors; lime juice can work in place of lemon if desired.
- Minced Garlic (optional) – For an extra punch of flavor in the sauce; consider adding another clove!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe: A Must-Try!
Step 1: Prepare Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors. This step should take about 5 minutes and will create a fragrant base for your Chicken Kofta.
Step 2: Shape Kofta
To form the kofta, wet your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. Grab a portion of the chicken mixture and mold it into elongated oval shapes, pressing gently to compact them. Aim for 10-12 kofta, each about 4-5 inches long. This shaping process should take around 10 minutes, and you’ll enjoy the aroma of the spices as you work.
Step 3: Grill Kofta
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, and brush the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking. Once heated, place the shaped kofta on the grill. Cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). This step will give your Chicken Kofta a delicious char that enhances their flavor.
Step 4: Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the kofta is grilling, mix plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl to create the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a minced garlic clove. This refreshing sauce takes just 5 minutes to prepare and serves as the perfect complement to your grilled kofta.
Step 5: Serve
Once the kofta are beautifully grilled and served piping hot, plate them with a generous dollop of the garlic yogurt sauce. This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe pairs wonderfully with pita bread, tabbouleh, or a fresh cucumber salad, making for a delicious and vibrant meal that everyone will love.
Expert Tips for Chicken Kofta
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Moisture Matters: Ensure you don’t over-mix the chicken mixture. Over-mixing can lead to dense kofta instead of the tender texture you desire.
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Grill Prepping: Always preheat your grill thoroughly. A hot grill creates a beautiful sear and prevents sticking, ensuring your Chicken Kofta turns golden brown.
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Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on your kofta while grilling. Cooking for too long can dry them out, so aim for that juicy perfection by checking their internal temperature.
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Flavor Boost: For a twist, don’t hesitate to spice up your garlic yogurt sauce! Add cayenne pepper for a kick and elevate the flavor profile, making each bite of kofta even more exciting.
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Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the juicy texture of the Chicken Kofta.
What to Serve with Juicy Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
The perfect sides can elevate your Chicken Kofta experience into a memorable feast that delights all the senses.
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Fresh Tabbouleh: A vibrant salad of parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur adds freshness, balancing the hearty kofta perfectly. The zesty, herbaceous flavors bring a delightful crunch to the table.
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Grilled Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita is ideal for scooping up kofta and creamy sauce. It adds a wonderful texture to your meal while absorbing all those delicious juices.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with herbs in a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing counterpart to the savory kofta. Its coolness enhances the whole dining experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with Mediterranean herbs, roasted bell peppers, and zucchini add depth and color to your plate. Their caramelized sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the grilled patties.
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Spicy Hummus: A luscious, spicy hummus can serve as both a dip for the kofta and a spread for pita. Its creamy richness pairs well with the lean protein of the kofta.
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Chilled Minted Yogurt Drink: This refreshing beverage offers a cooling effect that perfectly complements the spices in the kofta. The yogurt base also ties in beautifully with your sauce.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad drizzled with honey and lemon adds a sweet touch to contrast the dish’s savory flavors, making each bite a celebration of tastes.
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Mint and Lemon Tea: This fragrant tea can cleanse the palate after each savory bite, leaving your guests feeling refreshed and ready for more.
Make your meal truly memorable with these delightful pairings!
Storage Tips for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
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Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Kofta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while allowing their savory flavors to blend beautifully.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the kofta in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring they remain juicy and delicious.
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Garlic Yogurt Sauce Storage: Keep the garlic yogurt sauce refrigerated in a tightly sealed container for up to 5 days. Stir before serving to refresh its creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the kofta mixture and shape the patties up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps meld the flavors while keeping the kofta moist. The garlic yogurt sauce can also be made a day ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to prevent any flavor loss. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the kofta for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This allows you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Serving Suggestions
These tasty Chicken Kofta are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can turn your meal into a flavorful feast! Here are some wonderful ideas to elevate your dining experience.
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Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita acts as the perfect vessel for your kofta and yogurt sauce, adding a delightful texture to your meal. You can even stuff the kofta right into the pita for an enjoyable handheld treat!
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Tabbouleh: This fresh, herbaceous salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat brings a refreshing crunch, balancing the flavors of the kofta beautifully. Tabbouleh’s bright notes complement the spices perfectly, creating a vibrant plate.
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Cucumber Salad: A cooling cucumber salad drizzled with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt creates a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced kofta. It’s a light and zesty addition that enhances the overall experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Serve your kofta alongside beautifully roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. The caramelized edges of the veggies add sweetness, making every bite even more satisfying.
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Hummus: A side of creamy hummus not only complements the kofta but also allows for some fun dipping! Spread it onto pita, savor the rich flavors, and enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine at its finest.
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Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf mixed with herbs and spices would make a hearty side dish that pairs wonderfully with the kofta. The nutty flavor of the rice harmonizes with the garlic yogurt sauce, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
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Greek-style Couscous: Add some personality to your dinner by serving the kofta with couscous tossed with olives, feta, and diced tomatoes. This delicious combination introduces new flavors and textures that everyone will love!
Why not serve this succulent Chicken Kofta with a couple of these sides for a meal that’s both comforting and full of character? Don’t forget to splash on some of that Garlic Yogurt Sauce, making each bite a flavorful journey!
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ground chicken is fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting your ground chicken, look for bright pink coloration without any dark spots. Fresh ground chicken should have a clean smell. If it feels sticky or smells off, it’s best to avoid it.
How should I store leftover Chicken Kofta?
You can store your leftover Chicken Kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful. When ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze Chicken Kofta?
Very! To freeze your Chicken Kofta, shape them as directed, and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once they’re frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for longer storage. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, grill from frozen; just add a couple more minutes to the cooking time.
What if my Kofta are too dry?
If you find your kofta turn out dry, it’s typically due to overcooking. Always ensure your internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) but don’t go overboard. Consider adding a splash of olive oil to the mixture next time for added moisture, or incorporate finely grated onion, which adds both flavor and juiciness.
Is this recipe suitable for kids and people with allergies?
Yes! The Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Always check the specific brands of yogurt and sauces you use for any allergens. If you have a concern about garlic, you can adjust the amount or leave it out, and feel free to experiment with your family’s tolerance!
Succulent Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands to thoroughly mix the ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- To form the kofta, wet your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. Grab a portion of the chicken mixture and mold it into elongated oval shapes, pressing gently to compact them. Aim for 10-12 kofta, each about 4-5 inches long.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, and brush the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking. Once heated, place the shaped kofta on the grill. Cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
- While the kofta is grilling, mix plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl to create the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Consider adding a minced garlic clove for extra flavor.
- Once the kofta are beautifully grilled, plate them with a generous dollop of the garlic yogurt sauce.
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