Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful dish that’s perfect for families. These tender, juicy koftas are packed with flavor and topped with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. They’re simple to make and are great for dinner or even as a fun weekend meal. Everyone will love the fresh taste!
Why You Will Love This Chicken Kofta
This recipe is easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The ingredients are everyday staples you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s a family-friendly meal that brings everyone to the table. In just a few steps, you can create a satisfying dish that feels special!
How to Make Chicken Kofta
Making these koftas is straightforward. You simply mix the ingredients together, form them into shapes, and grill. The garlic yogurt sauce is just as easy, only requiring a few more ingredients. No fancy techniques needed, so it’s beginner-friendly and fun.
What You Need
- 500 grams ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Form the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas. Preheat the grill and brush it with olive oil. Grill the koftas for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through. In a separate bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to prepare the garlic yogurt sauce. Serve the grilled koftas with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side.
How to Serve Chicken Kofta
These juicy koftas are perfect with a side of warm pita bread or a fresh salad. You can also add some roasted vegetables for a colorful meal. They work great for family dinners or casual gatherings. The creamy garlic yogurt sauce adds a nice, refreshing touch!
How to Store Chicken Kofta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for about 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place the koftas in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop.
Recipe Tips
- Make the kofta mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to grill.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a small amount of olive oil to the chicken mixture.
- Avoid overcrowding the grill; give each kofta space to cook evenly.
- If you don’t have chicken, ground turkey works well too.
- Always check for doneness by ensuring the meat is cooked through and no longer pink.
Variations & Swaps
- For a twist, try adding spices like paprika or chili powder for extra heat.
- Swap the ground chicken for ground beef or lamb for a richer flavor.
- You can also make this dish using cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
FAQs
Can I make the koftas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just shape and grill them when you’re ready to serve. This makes family dinners even easier!
Can I freeze the cooked koftas?
Absolutely! Once grilled, let the koftas cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, they can be stored in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat the koftas?
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also warm them in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally so they do not dry out.
Can I substitute the yogurt for something else?
Yes, if you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based yogurt. Just check that it’s thick enough to get that creamy texture.
What common mistakes should I avoid?
Make sure not to overmix the chicken mixture, as this can make the koftas tough. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the grill; give each kofta enough space for even cooking.
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients
For the Kofta
- 500 grams 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
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for grilling
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Preparation of Kofta
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas.
- Preheat the grill and brush it with olive oil.
Cooking
- Grill the koftas for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
Preparation of Sauce
- In a separate bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to prepare the garlic yogurt sauce.
Serving
- Serve the grilled koftas with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side.
