If you’re looking for a flavorful, protein-packed meal that’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is the perfect recipe. Juicy ground chicken is seasoned with aromatic herbs and warm spices, then grilled until tender and served with a cool, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. It’s a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish that’s easy to make and full of fresh flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Juicy, tender, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors.
- Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients.
- High in protein and naturally gluten-free.
- Perfect for grilling, meal prep, or family dinners.
- The creamy garlic yogurt sauce complements the savory kofta beautifully.
- Great served with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Kofta
- 500 grams ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into small oval or sausage-shaped koftas.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Grill the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until the koftas are golden brown and fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the koftas cook, prepare the sauce by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Serve the grilled chicken kofta warm with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Tips & Tricks
- Chill the kofta mixture for 20 minutes before shaping if it’s too soft.
- Wet your hands with water when shaping the koftas to prevent sticking.
- Cook on a grill pan, outdoor grill, or in the oven if preferred.
- Add chopped fresh mint or cilantro for extra freshness.
- A pinch of smoked paprika adds subtle smoky flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep the koftas juicy.
Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free, High Protein
Notes
- Serve with warm pita bread, basmati rice, couscous, or quinoa.
- Pair with cucumber salad, tabbouleh, or roasted vegetables.
- Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a complete meal.
- The garlic yogurt sauce also makes an excellent dip for vegetables or flatbread.
Nutrition (Approximate)
Per serving
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 610mg
FAQ
Can I cook chicken kofta in the oven?
Yes. Bake the koftas at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Can I make Chicken Kofta ahead of time?
Absolutely. Shape the koftas up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Can I freeze chicken kofta?
Yes. Freeze uncooked or cooked koftas in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking or reheating.
What can I serve with Chicken Kofta?
Chicken kofta pairs well with pita bread, rice, grilled vegetables, hummus, tabbouleh, cucumber salad, or roasted potatoes.
Can I make the yogurt sauce ahead?
Yes. The garlic yogurt sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftover kofta and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked koftas for up to 3 months. The yogurt sauce is best made fresh.
Reheating: Reheat the koftas in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Similar Recipes
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Easy Grilled Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken Kofta
- 500 grams ground chicken
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into small oval or sausage-shaped koftas.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Grill the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until the koftas are golden brown and fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the koftas cook, prepare the sauce by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Serve the grilled chicken kofta warm with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Serve with warm pita bread, basmati rice, couscous, or quinoa.
- Pair with cucumber salad, tabbouleh, or roasted vegetables.
- Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions for a complete meal.
- The garlic yogurt sauce also makes an excellent dip for vegetables or flatbread
Conclusion
This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delicious blend of juicy grilled chicken, fragrant herbs, and warm spices, finished with a creamy, refreshing yogurt sauce. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and versatile enough for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or meal prep. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular on your menu.