Name: Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: Ground Chicken: 500 grams (about 1 pound); Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped; Garlic: 3 cloves, minced; Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, finely chopped; Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon; Ground Coriander: 1 teaspoon; Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste); Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste); Plain Yogurt: 1 cup; Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons; Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for grilling)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, flavor-packed meal that comes together with everyday ingredients but feels wildly special, you’re going to fall in love with this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe. Each juicy kofta is kissed with bold spices, fresh herbs, and a gentle smokiness from the grill, then paired with a cool, tangy garlic yogurt sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, this dish delivers comfort and brightness in every bite, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold, honest food.

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe has its part to play — no fillers here, just the good stuff that builds amazing flavor, juicy texture, and that signature burst of freshness. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Ground Chicken: The foundation for tender, juicy kofta that soak up all those wonderful spices.
Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and moisture, ensuring every bite stays succulent.
Garlic: Brings essential warmth and depth that transforms these kofta into something special.
Fresh Parsley: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, herby lift to the meat mixture.
Ground Cumin: Delivers earthy, smoky notes that are classic in kofta recipes.
Ground Coriander: Complements cumin with bright, citrusy undertones that shine through.
Salt: Not just for seasoning — it helps all the other flavors come alive.
Black Pepper: Lends gentle heat and a touch of complexity.
Plain Yogurt: The star of your creamy garlic sauce, balancing richness with freshness.
Lemon Juice: Brings tang and brightness to the yogurt sauce for the perfect drizzle.
Olive Oil: Keeps kofta from sticking and adds an unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.

How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion and parsley, and mincing the garlic to ensure everything blends smoothly. Having your ingredients prepped and ready makes assembling the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe not just easy, but actually enjoyable.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Kofta Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, and parsley. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Dig in with clean hands or a sturdy spoon, mixing just until everything is evenly blended — but don’t overmix or your kofta can turn tough.

Step 3: Shape into Kofta

Wet your hands (trust me, this keeps the mixture from sticking) and shape the chicken blend into elongated oval shapes, about the size of a small sausage. This iconic shape helps them cook evenly and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Step 4: Prepare the Grill or Pan

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and brush it lightly with olive oil. This step is crucial for that gorgeous sear and to prevent sticking, which ensures perfect kofta every time.

Step 5: Grill the Kofta

Place the formed kofta on the hot grill and let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side. Look for that golden color and firm, juicy texture — when the juices run clear and there’s no pink in the center, they’re ready to come off.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the kofta rest, whisk together plain yogurt, a splash of lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. This sauce is creamy, garlicky, and just tangy enough to perfectly complement the spiced kofta.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Arrange your golden kofta on a platter and serve with a generous drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce, plus your favorite sides. Every bite of the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a flavor adventure you’ll want to repeat again and again.

How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe with a shower of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a scatter of toasted pine nuts for crunch and an elegant touch. A few lemon wedges on the side add a bright, zesty note for anyone who loves a tangy finish.

Side Dishes

Pair your kofta with soft, warm flatbreads or fluffy rice pilaf to soak up every drop of that dreamy garlic yogurt sauce. Roasted or grilled vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, round out the meal and add lovely color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a showstopping presentation, serve kofta over a vibrant salad of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, then swirl the garlic yogurt sauce on top. You can also skewer the kofta before grilling for a street food-inspired vibe, or tuck them into pita pockets for a fun, hands-on dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extra Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe, let the kofta cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store the sauce separately in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, making lunchtime a total win.

Freezing

The kofta freeze beautifully: arrange cooked or uncooked kofta on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then move to freezer bags. Keep the sauce fresh (not frozen), and you’ll have a speedy, from-the-freezer meal whenever you crave it. Just remember to label the bags with the date!

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop the kofta in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until hot through. Give the garlic yogurt sauce a quick stir before serving, and you’re all set for round two.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a great alternative if you don’t have chicken handy; it keeps the kofta just as juicy and soaks up those spices nicely.

Is it possible to bake the kofta instead of grilling?

Yes! Arrange them on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. You’ll still get delicious results, just with a little less smokiness.

What can I substitute for fresh parsley?

If parsley isn’t your thing or you’re out, try fresh cilantro or even mint for a different but equally refreshing twist in your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe.

Can I make the kofta mixture in advance?

Definitely! Mix and shape your kofta up to a day ahead. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill for a speedy weeknight dinner or easy entertaining.

How can I make the garlic yogurt sauce more garlicky?

Increase the amount of minced garlic, or roast a few cloves for deeper, sweeter garlic flavor. A tiny pinch of grated lemon zest also brightens the sauce and really makes the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe shine.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel as excited as I do to whip up this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s pure comfort meets celebration, and so much easier than it looks. Give it a try, make it yours, and share it with someone you love — because there’s nothing better than great food made at home!

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 9 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Halal

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Description

Enjoy these flavorful Chicken Kofta with a zesty Garlic Yogurt Sauce for a delicious meal that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Instructions

Mix the Kofta: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley.
Season: Add ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape: Wet your hands and shape the mixture into elongated oval kofta.
Grill: Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Grill the kofta for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to make the garlic yogurt sauce.
Serve: Serve the kofta with the garlic yogurt sauce and your choice of sides.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Middle Eastern