Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that brings together vibrant Middle Eastern flavors with a comforting homestyle touch, you must try this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe. The juicy, spiced chicken koftas pair perfectly with the cooling, zesty garlic yogurt sauce, creating a delightful balance of flavors that’s as satisfying as it is fresh. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that’s simple to make yet full of character.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect taste and texture. The ground chicken provides a tender base, while the blend of spices and fresh herbs adds warmth and fragrance. The garlic yogurt sauce is the ultimate creamy contrast, brightened with lemon juice for a fresh finish.

• 500 grams ground chicken: Use lean but moist ground chicken for juicy koftas that hold together well.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and moisture to keep the koftas tender.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Gives a punchy, aromatic flavor that’s balanced by the yogurt sauce.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the meat mixture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Essential for that earthy, warm taste characteristic of koftas.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy undertone to the spice mix.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives just the right amount of gentle heat.
• 1 cup plain yogurt: Acts as the creamy base for the garlic yogurt sauce, cooling and rich.
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Lifts the yogurt sauce with bright acidity and freshness.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the garlic yogurt sauce to avoid blandness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to brush the grill, preventing sticking and adding a subtle fruity flavor.

How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture

Grab a large bowl and combine the ground chicken with chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor and aroma.

Step 2: Shape the Koftas

Now comes the fun part—forming the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. The shape helps the koftas cook through while keeping them juicy inside. If the mixture feels a bit sticky, wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Before placing the koftas on the grill, brush the grates lightly with olive oil. This prevents sticking and also gives the koftas those irresistible grill marks that cookbooks and dinner parties love to show off.

Step 4: Grill the Koftas

Place the koftas on the grill and cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so all sides get that nice caramelization and are cooked through without drying out. The aroma at this stage is absolutely mouthwatering and pairs beautifully with the rest of the meal.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the koftas grill, whisk together the plain yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. The lemon juice brightens the sauce and the salt enhances the garlicky tang, making this sauce the perfect cool counterpart to the warm spiced meat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the koftas are beautifully grilled and cooked through, serve them alongside the garlic yogurt sauce. The creamy sauce allows you to dip or drizzle generously, complementing every bite with a refreshing, zesty finish.

How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the whole experience. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the koftas for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. A few thin slices of red onion or a pinch of smoked paprika on the yogurt sauce can add an extra hint of flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe with simple sides creates a balanced meal. Think fluffy basmati rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice. These sides soak up the flavors perfectly and keep the meal light and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the koftas on skewers alongside small bowls of the garlic yogurt sauce, surrounded by an assortment of pickled vegetables and fresh herbs. You can also assemble them in wraps or flatbreads with sliced veggies and a drizzle of sauce for a handheld option that’s perfect for casual gatherings or lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, keep the koftas and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy the wonderful flavors even after the first meal without compromising taste or texture.

Freezing

Chicken koftas freeze exceptionally well. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months. The garlic yogurt sauce doesn’t freeze well, so make a fresh batch when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated koftas gently in the oven or on a stovetop skillet to keep them from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can toughen the meat. Serve with freshly made garlic yogurt sauce for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken for this kofta recipe?

Absolutely! Ground beef or lamb can be excellent alternatives, offering a richer flavor profile. Just keep the same spice and herb quantities, and you’ll have a delicious twist on the classic chicken version.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling on an indoor pan or grill pan?

Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly. Just make sure to preheat the pan and brush it with olive oil to mimic the outdoor grilling experience.

How garlicky is the yogurt sauce? Will it overpower the kofta?

The garlic yogurt sauce has a balanced garlic flavor—pronounced but mild enough to complement rather than overpower the koftas. If you prefer a subtler garlic taste, reduce the amount slightly or add more yogurt and lemon juice to taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

While this particular recipe highlights chicken kofta, you can substitute ground plant-based meat alternatives or even mashed chickpeas and spices for a vegetarian version. Pair the koftas with the garlic yogurt sauce made from dairy-free yogurt for a vegan-friendly meal.

What’s the best way to make sure koftas don’t fall apart on the grill?

The key is in the mixture consistency and handling. Make sure it’s well-mixed but not too wet. Using slightly wet hands to shape the koftas helps them hold their shape better, and grilling over medium-high heat ensures they develop a good crust quickly, sealing in moisture.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe, it’s likely to become a joyful addition to your meal rotation. Every bite is an adventure of flavors and textures, brightened by the creamy garlic sauce that ties it all together so beautifully. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and dive into a dish that feels like a warm hug shared between friends and family.

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