After a long day, nothing beats the feeling of coming home to a kitchen that smells of spiced goodness. As I mixed the tender ground chicken with fragrant herbs and spices, memories of bustling Middle Eastern markets came rushing back. The best part? This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is an effortless way to transport your taste buds without the hassle of takeout. Each juicy kofta is complemented perfectly by a creamy, tangy sauce that you can whip up in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this delectable, gluten-free recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table. Join me as we explore this versatile gem that’s just as easy to customize for all dietary preferences!
Why is Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce so Amazing?
Flavorful and rich, these kofta are packed with spices that sing with every bite. Quick prep makes this dish a go-to for busy weeknights, allowing you to indulge without the fast food guilt. Versatile in nature, you can easily substitute ingredients to cater to various dietary needs. Crowd-pleaser appeal means your family and friends will be asking for seconds, particularly when served with that creamy yogurt sauce on the side!
Chicken Kofta Ingredients
• Deliciously simple, these ingredients ensure your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a hit!
For the Kofta
- Ground Chicken – A lean protein base that keeps the kofta juicy; swap for ground turkey for a lighter twist.
- Onion – Adds moisture and sweetness; use shallots for a gentler flavor.
- Garlic – Infuses rich depth; try roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the flavor profile; cilantro can be a bold alternative for a twist.
- Ground Cumin – Provides warmth and complexity; ground coriander is a suitable replacement if needed.
- Ground Coriander – Enhances the overall flavor; can be omitted if you’re in a pinch.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; adjust based on dietary needs.
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- Plain Yogurt – The creamy base of your sauce; coconut yogurt offers a dairy-free option.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a refreshing acidity; vinegar can serve as an alternative if necessary.
- Minced Garlic (optional) – Enhances the flavor of the sauce; omit for a subtler garlic taste.
Enjoy the process of bringing this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce to life in your kitchen!
How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
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Prepare Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix with clean hands until it’s well combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Shape Kofta: Wet your hands to prevent sticking and take a portion of the mixture. Form it into elongated ovals, about 10-12 kofta, ensuring they’re compact for even cooking.
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Grill Kofta: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the kofta for 5-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp of 75°C/165°F).
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Make Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. For extra flavor, stir in minced garlic, if desired.
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Serve: Plate the warm kofta alongside a bowl of the sauce. Feel free to garnish them with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a fresh touch!
Optional: Serve with warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or over couscous for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Chicken Kofta
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Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining the ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to dense kofta, which are less enjoyable.
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Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the kofta. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking, leading to a beautiful golden exterior.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: For food safety and perfect texture, check that your chicken kofta reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to alter the seasoning to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne can infuse extra warmth into the chicken kofta.
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Customize Your Sauce: The garlic yogurt sauce is versatile—try adding fresh herbs like dill or a sprinkle of paprika for visual appeal and flavor.
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Let Them Rest: Once grilled, allow the kofta to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances their juiciness.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the kofta mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent the mixture from drying out, ensure it is well-sealed. Additionally, you can make the garlic yogurt sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, mold the kofta and grill them as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze!
What to Serve with Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?
Ready to elevate your dinner around a plate of kofta? Let’s explore the perfect pairings that will complement this delightful dish in every way.
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Warm Pita Bread: Soft and pillowy, pita serves as a delightful vehicle for scooping up your kofta and sauce. The warm bread enhances the meal’s comforting nature, making each bite a cozy experience.
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Fresh Tabbouleh Salad: Bright and zesty, this herb-packed salad brings a refreshing crunch that balances the savory kofta. Tabbouleh’s vibrant parsley and bulgur add nutritional value and a pleasant contrast in texture.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini add a healthy, colorful touch to your plate. The slight sweetness from the roasted veggies enhances the spices in the kofta, creating a harmonious flavor explosion.
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Couscous: Fluffy and light, this grain is an ideal base for soaking up the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Its subtle flavor beautifully complements the bold spices of the kofta.
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Grilled Rice Pilaf: With fragrant spices and a hint of nuts, rice pilaf is a delicious, satisfying side that brings warmth to the meal. The texture adds interest and rounds out the flavors tantalizingly.
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Zesty Pickles: Tangy pickles can brighten up the plate with their acidity, providing a perfect contrast to the rich kofta. Their crunch adds another layer of texture to the dish.
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Mint Lemonade: Refreshing and light, this drink encapsulates the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. The mint and lemon together cleanse the palate, making each bite of kofta even more enjoyable.
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Baklava: For a sweet finish, serve this flaky dessert to create a delightful end to your meal. The honey and nut layers in baklava harmonize beautifully with the spices of your main dish.
Storage Tips for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
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Room Temperature: Chicken kofta should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth.
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Fridge: Store leftover chicken kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When reheating, ensure the kofta reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for safety and enjoy them alongside the garlic yogurt sauce for a delicious meal!
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists on this comforting classic, making it uniquely yours!
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option that still delivers on flavor. It’s just as juicy and tasty!
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Beefy Delight: Substitute ground beef for a richer, heartier taste that echoes traditional Middle Eastern flavors beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic yogurt sauce for a spicy upgrade that ticks all the flavor boxes.
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Roasted Garlic: Swap fresh garlic in the sauce for roasted garlic to give it a sweeter, mellow vibe that pairs perfectly with the kofta.
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Herb Boost: Use fresh cilantro instead of parsley for the kofta to give it a fresh, vibrant punch with every bite!
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Coconut Creamy: Switch plain yogurt for coconut yogurt in the sauce for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that brings a tropical flair.
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Zesty Alternative: If you’re out of lemon juice, vinegar works wonders, adding a different but delicious tang to your garlic sauce.
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Texture Twist: For a crunch, mix in chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to the kofta to add a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ground chicken?
Absolutely! When choosing ground chicken, look for meat that’s bright pink and has a fresh smell. Avoid packages with dark spots or an off odor. If possible, buy it from a reputable source to ensure quality. Fresh ground chicken not only tastes better but also provides a juicier kofta.
How should I store leftover chicken kofta?
Store any leftover chicken kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them on a skillet or in the microwave until they’re warmed through. This way, you can enjoy that delicious flavor all over again!
Can I freeze chicken kofta for later?
Certainly! To freeze chicken kofta, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they’re solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill or in a skillet until they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
What if I don’t have all the spices?
Very! While ground cumin and coriander enhance the flavor, you can still make tasty kofta without them. If you don’t have ground cumin, consider using a teaspoon of curry powder for warmth. For ground coriander, omitting it won’t take away too much; just adjust the salt and pepper to maintain flavor. The key is to enjoy the mixing process—don’t hesitate to experiment!
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Absolutely! This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is gluten-free and can easily adapt to other dietary needs. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, swap out the plain yogurt for coconut yogurt or tahini. Be sure to check your spices for any allergens, and you can customize the herbs based on what you love. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, everyone can enjoy this dish!
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce: A Flavorful Easy Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix with clean hands until well combined.
- Wet your hands and take a portion of the mixture. Form it into elongated ovals, about 10-12 kofta, ensuring they're compact.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, lightly oiled. Grill the kofta for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir in minced garlic if desired.
- Plate the warm kofta alongside a bowl of the sauce and garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon.