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Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

4.7 from 133 reviews

This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe features flavorful ground chicken meatballs seasoned with aromatic spices and herbs, grilled to perfection, and served with a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce. It’s a delicious and healthy Middle Eastern-inspired dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Kofta

  • 500 grams ground chicken (about 1 pound)
  • 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
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Add ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  2. Shape the Kofta: Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking and shape the mixture into elongated oval-shaped koftas, about the size of a small sausage or meatball.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and to help achieve a nice sear on the kofta.
  4. Grill the Kofta: Place the shaped koftas on the hot grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Turn carefully to ensure even cooking. Grill until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through.
  5. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix and create a smooth, tangy sauce that complements the kofta.
  6. Serve: Plate the grilled chicken koftas and serve them alongside the garlic yogurt sauce. Pair with your favorite sides such as rice, salad, or flatbread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lamb if preferred.
  • For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of olive oil into the kofta mixture.
  • Make sure not to overmix the meat to keep the koftas tender.
  • If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler can be used as alternatives.
  • Chill the kofta mixture for 30 minutes before shaping for easier handling and better flavor melding.

Keywords: Chicken Kofta, Garlic Yogurt Sauce, Middle Eastern Chicken, Grilled Chicken Meatballs, Healthy Chicken Recipe