Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Recipe & Easy Steps

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine succulent, perfectly spiced chicken kofta, each bite bursting with flavor, nestled in a creamy, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

Kofta, a dish with roots stretching back centuries across the Middle East, South Asia, and the Mediterranean, represents a celebration of ground meat transformed into something truly special. While variations abound, the essence remains the same: flavorful meat, expertly seasoned and shaped, offering a comforting and satisfying culinary experience. My version, featuring tender chicken, offers a lighter, healthier twist on the traditional lamb or beef kofta.

What makes Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce so irresistible? It’s the symphony of flavors and textures. The warmth of the spices in the kofta perfectly complements the cool, refreshing garlic yogurt sauce. The tender, juicy chicken provides a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, creating a harmonious balance that will have you reaching for seconds. Plus, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will impress your friends and family with its exotic flavors and simple elegance. So, let’s get cooking and create some culinary magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Kofta:
• 1.5 lbs ground chicken (preferably dark meat for more flavor)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
• For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Pita bread or rice, for serving

Preparing the Chicken Kofta Mixture

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, cilantro, mint, egg, breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the kofta tough. I like to use my hands to mix everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Test the Seasoning: Before forming all the kofta, it’s a good idea to test the seasoning. Take a small amount of the mixture (about a teaspoon) and cook it in a pan until cooked through. Taste it and adjust the seasoning in the main bowl if needed. This is a crucial step to ensure the kofta are perfectly seasoned to your liking.
3. Form the Kofta: Now, it’s time to form the kofta. I usually make them about 1.5 to 2 inches long and about 1 inch in diameter, resembling small sausages or oblong meatballs. You can make them any shape you prefer, but try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Wet your hands slightly with water to prevent the mixture from sticking. This makes the process much easier and cleaner.
4. Chill the Kofta (Optional but Recommended): Place the formed kofta on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or even up to a few hours. Chilling helps the kofta hold their shape during cooking and allows the flavors to meld together. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for the best results.

Cooking the Chicken Kofta

1. Heat the Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the kofta without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan and cause the kofta to steam instead of brown.
2. Sear the Kofta: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the kofta in the skillet, leaving some space between each one. Sear them on all sides until they are nicely browned. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. The browning adds a lot of flavor and creates a nice crust.
3. Cook Through: After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and continue cooking the kofta for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through. To ensure they are cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can cut one open to check for doneness. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink remaining inside.
4. Rest (Optional): Once cooked, remove the kofta from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful kofta.

Preparing the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped dill.
2. Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and then adjust as needed.
3. Mix Well: Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
4. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the sauce and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. However, you can serve it immediately if you’re short on time.

Serving Suggestions

1. Plate the Kofta: Arrange the cooked chicken kofta on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce over the kofta.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
4. Serve: Serve immediately with warm pita bread or rice. The pita bread is perfect for scooping up the kofta and sauce, while the rice provides a nice base for the flavors.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit it altogether.
• Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Parsley, oregano, or even a touch of rosemary would also work well in the kofta.
• Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or even ground oats as a substitute.
• Grilling: The kofta can also be grilled. Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill the kofta for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
• Baking: Alternatively, you can bake the kofta in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground chicken with lentils or chickpeas.
• Make Ahead: The kofta mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The garlic yogurt sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Cooked kofta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and flavorful Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe. It’s a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of the savory kofta and the tangy yogurt sauce is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the recipe to your liking. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavor adventure waiting to happen! From the aromatic spices infusing the perfectly ground chicken to the cool, tangy embrace of the garlic yogurt sauce, every bite is a delightful dance on your palate. I truly believe this is a must-try dish for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests with a simple yet sophisticated meal.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile, surprisingly easy to make, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Forget bland, boring chicken – this Chicken Kofta recipe transforms ordinary ground chicken into something truly extraordinary. The combination of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. And the garlic yogurt sauce? It’s the perfect counterpoint, adding a creamy coolness that balances the richness of the kofta beautifully.

But the best part? You can easily customize this recipe to suit your own tastes and preferences. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of chili flakes to the kofta mixture for a little extra heat. Prefer a milder flavor? Reduce the amount of garlic in the sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Plating: Serve the kofta over a bed of fluffy couscous or rice, drizzled generously with the garlic yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
* Kofta Wraps: Stuff the kofta into warm pita bread with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of the garlic yogurt sauce for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
* Kofta Skewers: Thread the kofta onto skewers and grill them for a smoky, charred flavor. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables and the garlic yogurt sauce for dipping.
* Mediterranean Bowl: Create a vibrant Mediterranean bowl with the kofta, quinoa, roasted vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant), crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Don’t forget the garlic yogurt sauce!
* Spice it Up: For a spicier version, add a finely chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper to the kofta mixture. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic yogurt sauce.
* Herbaceous Delight: Experiment with different herbs in the kofta mixture. Fresh mint, dill, or oregano would all be delicious additions.
* Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the garlic yogurt sauce for a brighter, more citrusy flavor.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I poured my heart into creating a dish that’s both delicious and approachable, and I truly believe you’ll love it as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations to make it your own.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. I promise, you won’t be disappointed!

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Once you’ve tried the recipe, please share your photos and comments. Let me know what you thought, what variations you tried, and how you made it your own. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking!