Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe features flavorful ground chicken seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, formed into meatballs, grilled to perfection, and served with a refreshing, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. It’s a delicious and healthy Middle Eastern-inspired dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or main course.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Kofta
- 500 grams (about 1 pound) ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, to enhance sauce flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Shape the Koftas: With clean hands, shape the chicken mixture into small oval or round meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. This will ensure even cooking during grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Koftas: Place the chicken koftas on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice char on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: While the koftas are grilling, in a small bowl, mix the plain yogurt, lemon juice, and minced garlic (if using). Stir well to combine and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Serve: Once the koftas are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve warm alongside the garlic yogurt sauce for dipping or drizzling. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
- For additional flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the kofta mixture.
- Ensure the grill is well oil-coated to prevent the koftas from sticking and falling apart.
- Make the yogurt sauce ahead of time to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve with warm pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: Chicken Kofta, Garlic Yogurt Sauce, Grilled Meatballs, Middle Eastern Chicken Recipe, Healthy Chicken Kofta