There’s something magical about biting into a succulent Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. The juicy meatballs, perfectly spiced, dance in harmony with the creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. perfect side dish for kofta It’s a dish that sings of warm summer nights and gatherings filled with laughter and joy.
I remember the first time I tasted this delightful dish at a family barbecue. The aroma wafting through the air was irresistible, making it impossible to wait until dinner. light and healthy wrap option Since then, Chicken Kofta has become my go-to recipe for impressing friends and family during special occasions.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Kofta is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings
- The flavor profile combines aromatic spices with juicy chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table, while its versatility allows for pairing with various sides or salads
I will never forget the time I made this for my best friend’s birthday party; she couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Chicken: Fresh or frozen ground chicken works well; just ensure it’s thawed if frozen. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles recipe.
Onion: Use a sweet onion for added flavor; finely chop it before mixing.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they add depth to the kofta’s flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; feel free to substitute parsley if you prefer.
Spices (Cumin and Paprika): These spices provide warmth and richness; adjust according to your taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; always taste as you go!
For the Sauce:
Greek Yogurt: Thick and creamy is best; choose full-fat yogurt for a richer sauce.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty kick that balances flavors beautifully.
Additional Garlic: Minced garlic in the sauce enhances its flavor profile significantly.
Pine Nuts (optional): Toasted pine nuts add crunch and nuttiness; sprinkle them on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (yes, it’s messy) to blend everything uniformly.
Shape into Koftas: Take handfuls of the mixture and shape them into oblong meatballs. Aim for about 2 inches long—this helps them cook evenly without drying out.
Chill Before Cooking: Place shaped koftas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Cook the Koftas: Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook koftas for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they achieve an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Create the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: While koftas are grilling, mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
Serve and Enjoy!: Arrange cooked koftas on a platter alongside garlic yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs or toasted pine nuts for extra flair!
Now that you have crafted these delightful Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce masterpieces, prepare yourself for enthusiastic applause from your friends or family! savory garlic mushrooms.
You Must Know
- This delightful Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure
- With its aromatic spices, juicy texture, and creamy sauce, it’s bound to impress everyone at your dinner table
- Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the kofta ingredients and let them rest. Next, cook the kofta on medium-high heat until browned. While they cook, whip up the garlic yogurt sauce for maximum flavor harmony.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground chicken for turkey or mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. You can also adjust spice levels to suit your taste buds—add more chili for heat or less for milder flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Kofta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfect kofta texture, don’t overmix the meat; it should be just combined
- Use wet hands when shaping kofta to prevent sticking
- For extra flavor, grill them instead of pan-frying for that smoky goodness
Cooking Chicken Kofta always reminds me of that one summer barbecue when my friends devoured every last bite and begged for seconds. It was such a hit!
FAQ
Can I use different meats for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?
protein-packed breakfast idea.
Yes! Ground turkey or beef can be great alternatives if you prefer.
What is the best way to serve Chicken Kofta?
Serve with pita bread, fresh veggies, and drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce for a complete meal.
How do I make Chicken Kofta spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mixture for an extra kick!

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful dish that combines juicy, spiced chicken meatballs with a creamy, zesty yogurt sauce. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it alongside fresh vegetables or pita bread for a complete meal that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (or parsley)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into oblong meatballs about 2 inches long.
- Chill the shaped koftas on a parchment-lined baking sheet for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat and cook koftas for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While the koftas are cooking, mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve the koftas on a platter with the garlic yogurt sauce and garnish if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 kofta (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg