Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt: 5 Amazing Flavor Secrets

Name: Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt: 5 Amazing Flavor Secrets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1 onion, finely chopped or grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling); 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced (for sauce); Pinch of salt (for sauce)

by Jannet Lisa

23 de July de 2025

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Chicken kofta garlic yogurt has become my go-to for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal that always impresses. I remember the first time I tried making it, I was worried it would be too complicated, but the aroma of the spices and fresh herbs filling my kitchen was so inviting! The juicy, savory chicken koftas paired with that cool, tangy garlic yogurt sauce are just divine – a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. This recipe for chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce is truly a winner. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt

Get ready to fall in love with this amazing dish! It’s packed with flavor and so simple to make.

Incredibly juicy and flavorful koftas
Tangy, creamy garlic yogurt sauce that’s addictive
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner
This garlic yogurt chicken kofta recipe is beginner-friendly
Versatile – great for grilling or pan-frying
Can be prepped ahead for busy evenings
Offers a taste of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine
A crowd-pleasing dish everyone will enjoy, making it the best chicken kofta garlic yogurt recipe

Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt Ingredients

Gathering these simple chicken kofta garlic yogurt ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. You’ll need about 1 pound ground chicken, which is lean and takes on flavors beautifully. For the koftas, we’ll use 1 onion, finely chopped or grated, for moisture and subtle sweetness, plus 2 cloves garlic, minced, for that essential savory kick. Fresh herbs are key, so grab 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped. Warm spices like 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper create that signature Middle Eastern flavor profile. For grilling, you’ll need 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Now for the star sauce! Combine 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat gives the best creamy texture) with 1 tablespoon lemon juice for tanginess. Add another 1 clove garlic, minced, and a pinch of salt to complete this cooling, flavorful garlic yogurt sauce.

How to Make Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt

Let’s dive into these simple chicken kofta garlic yogurt instructions to create a truly memorable meal. First things first, get your grill or grill pan heated to a medium-high heat. While it’s warming up, brush it lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the 1 pound ground chicken, the finely chopped or grated 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, the vibrant 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, and all those wonderful spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix everything together with your hands until it’s all beautifully combined. Don’t overmix; we want tender koftas!
Step 2: With slightly damp hands, shape the mixture into oval-shaped patties, or koftas. This helps them hold their shape during cooking and makes them easy to handle.
Step 3: Carefully place the shaped koftas onto the hot, oiled grill or grill pan. Cook them for about 5–7 minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden-brown color and for them to be cooked all the way through. The smell of the spices sizzling is incredible!
Step 4: While the koftas are doing their thing on the grill, whip up that amazing garlic yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, simply mix together the 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice for that bright tang, the remaining 1 clove garlic, minced, and just a pinch of salt. Stir until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Once the koftas are cooked, remove them from the grill. Serve these delicious chicken kofta garlic yogurt creations warm, either drizzled generously with the homemade garlic yogurt sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping. These chicken kofta garlic yogurt instructions are designed for success!

Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt koftas being grilled

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that guarantee my chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce turns out perfectly every time. Follow these tips for a truly memorable meal!

For the juiciest koftas, don’t overwork the ground chicken mixture. Mix just until combined to keep the texture tender.
Using damp hands when shaping the koftas prevents the mixture from sticking to you, making the process much smoother.
Letting the koftas rest for about 10 minutes after shaping can help them hold their form better on the grill.
Ensure your grill or pan is properly preheated. This is crucial for getting that beautiful golden-brown sear on the chicken kofta.

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt?

The real secret to perfect homemade chicken kofta garlic yogurt lies in the freshness of the ingredients and not overmixing the meat. Using fresh herbs and the right balance of spices, combined with a gentle hand when forming the koftas, ensures a tender and flavorful result. For more information on spice blends, you can check out resources on Middle Eastern spices.

Can I make Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the chicken kofta mixture and shape the koftas up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. The garlic yogurt sauce can also be made a day ahead and stored separately. Just cook the koftas right before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt?

A common mistake is overmixing the meat, which leads to tough koftas. Another pitfall is not preheating the grill enough, causing them to stick or cook unevenly. Always ensure the koftas are cooked through to a safe internal temperature for the best and safest results. Understanding safe food temperatures is important for any home cook; you can find guidance on safe minimum internal temperatures.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt

These savory chicken koftas are incredibly versatile, and I love finding new ways to enjoy them! They’re fantastic served simply grilled with a generous dollop of the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. For a more complete meal, consider what to serve with chicken kofta garlic yogurt. I often pair them with fluffy couscous or a fresh, crisp Greek salad. Another favorite is serving them alongside warm pita bread, perfect for scooping up any extra garlic yogurt dip. This dish truly shines with simple, fresh accompaniments.

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious chicken kofta garlic yogurt dish. Keep in mind these are approximate values, as ingredients can vary.

Calories: 350
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 650mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of yogurt and leanness of the chicken.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt

Proper storage is key to enjoying these delicious chicken kofta garlic yogurt creations later. Once cooked, let the koftas and the garlic yogurt sauce cool completely. For the best quality, store them in separate airtight containers. The koftas will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to freeze them, wrap each kofta tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. The garlic yogurt sauce can also be frozen, though the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Remember, if you’re storing leftovers of the chicken kofta and garlic yogurt dip together, make sure the sauce is fully cooled before combining.

To reheat, you can gently warm the koftas in a skillet over low heat, in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or even in the microwave. If reheating from frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight first. Serve with the fresh or thawed garlic yogurt sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt

What makes this chicken kofta garlic yogurt recipe so special?

This chicken kofta garlic yogurt recipe stands out because of the perfect balance of savory, spiced chicken koftas and the cool, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful combination that’s both satisfying and healthy, making it a favorite for so many people.

How do I ensure my chicken koftas are juicy?

To achieve juicy koftas when you’re learning how to make chicken kofta garlic yogurt, the key is not to overwork the ground chicken mixture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Also, using ground chicken with a bit of fat (like 85/15 or 90/10) helps keep them moist. Don’t overcook them on the grill; they cook relatively quickly!

Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground turkey or ground beef for the chicken in this recipe. The spice blend works wonderfully with any of these meats, and you’ll still get a delicious result with the garlic yogurt sauce. Adjust cooking times slightly based on the type of meat you use.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken kofta and garlic yogurt dip?

When serving your chicken kofta garlic yogurt, consider sides that complement the Middle Eastern flavors. Fluffy couscous, a fresh cucumber and tomato salad, or warm pita bread are fantastic choices. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers also pair beautifully, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations of Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic chicken kofta garlic yogurt, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many delicious ways to switch things up and explore new flavors.

Spicy Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt: For those who love a kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the kofta mixture. This creates a wonderfully spicy chicken kofta garlic yogurt that’s incredibly satisfying.
Baked Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt: If grilling isn’t an option, try baked chicken kofta garlic yogurt! Arrange the shaped koftas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through.
Vegetarian Kofta: Swap the ground chicken for a mixture of mashed chickpeas, grated zucchini, and finely chopped bell peppers. This makes a fantastic vegetarian alternative that still pairs perfectly with the garlic yogurt sauce.
Herb Variations: Don’t stick to just parsley! Try adding finely chopped cilantro, mint, or even dill to the kofta mixture for a different fresh herb profile.