Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever craved something that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is just the answer. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner—and let me tell you, the tender, spiced chicken paired with that tangy garlic yogurt sauce is absolutely addictive. I love how the garlic yogurt cuts through the richness of the ground chicken, making every bite perfectly balanced.

What I find really wonderful about this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it as appetizers at a party or making a cozy meal for two, the recipe shines every time. Plus, it’s quite straightforward, so even if you’re new to cooking kofta, you’ll find it super approachable. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to for showcasing simple spices in a fresh way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this list works together perfectly to build layers of flavor without overwhelming your palate. When shopping, look for fresh garlic and bright parsley to really enhance that homemade vibe in every bite.

• Ground Chicken: Using fresh ground chicken gives you that light, juicy texture which holds spices beautifully.
• Onion: Finely chopped to blend in smoothly without overpowering the kofta’s texture.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key to infusing punchy flavor both in the kofta and the yogurt sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
• Ground Cumin: Its earthy warmth complements the chicken without taking center stage.
• Ground Coriander: Brings a subtle citrusy aroma that makes these koftas irresistibly fragrant.
• Salt: Necessary to bring all the flavors into harmony—adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper: Adds just a touch of heat; freshly cracked if possible for the best flavor.
• Plain Yogurt: The base of the garlic sauce, it should be thick and creamy for that perfect dip.
• Lemon Juice: Balances richness with a bright acidity that wakes up the sauce.
• Olive Oil: For grilling, gives a nice golden crust without drying out the kofta.

Variations

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have in the kitchen or your mood. Feel free to experiment—it’s a great base for your own spin!

• Spicy Version: I sometimes add finely chopped green chili or a pinch of cayenne to the kofta mixture for an extra kick that wakes up the flavors beautifully.
• Dairy-Free Sauce: I’ve swapped out yogurt for coconut yogurt when catering to a dairy-free friend, and it still turned out creamy and delicious.
• Fresh Herbs: Try adding mint or cilantro with parsley to bring different fresh notes that make the kofta taste unique each time.
• Baking Instead of Grilling: When I’m short on time or want less cleanup, I bake the kofta on a sheet pan, and it works just as well.

How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Kofta Ingredients Gently

Start by combining your ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley in a large bowl. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything gently—overmixing can make the kofta dense, so be tender with it. Once combined, cover and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Shape and Grill the Kofta

Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking, then shape the mixture into small, even oval patties or meatballs. Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the kofta in batches to avoid overcrowding, allowing about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature hits 165°F and they’re juicy inside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the kofta is grilling, whisk together the plain yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust with more garlic or lemon if you want it zingier. I always refrigerate this sauce until I’m ready to serve, so it’s cool and refreshing alongside the warm kofta.

How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

I like to top the finished kofta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for some color and an added herbal note. Sometimes, a light dusting of sumac or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances it beautifully, especially when serving for guests.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, a crisp cucumber salad, or fluffy basmati rice. I often whip up a simple fattoush or tabbouleh alongside for a complete, fresh meal that feels like a mini celebration on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I like to thread the koftas onto skewers and serve them family-style with bowls of garlic yogurt sauce, olives, and chopped veggies for a fun mezze platter. It’s always a hit, and guests enjoy customizing each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover kofta keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I always store the garlic yogurt sauce separately to keep it fresh and bright. When I’ve reheated the kofta, a quick spoonful of fresh yogurt sauce makes it taste like new again.

Freezing

If you want to freeze some, shape the koftas but don’t cook them first. Freeze them on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. That way, they’ll thaw quickly and retain their shape when you’re ready to grill them fresh.

Reheating

I prefer reheating leftover kofta in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil to re-crisp the exterior without drying them out. Microwaving tends to make them rubbery, so I avoid that whenever possible.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s flavorful, fast, and always impresses. I love sharing it with friends because it feels like a little culinary treat that’s far from complicated. Try making it your own—and once you do, I have a feeling it might just become one of your favorite easy dinner ideas too.

Print