Name: Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce That's Unforgettable
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Chicken (or ground turkey for a lighter version); 1 medium Onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1/2 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped); 1 tsp Ground Cumin; 1 tsp Ground Coriander; 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Black Pepper; 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for grilling); 1 cup Plain Yogurt (or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option); 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)

The sizzling sound of spiced ground chicken sizzling on the grill is a culinary soundtrack I cherish. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce for Flavor Lovers! This dish not only brings vibrant Middle Eastern flair to your table but also happens to be gluten-free and healthy. With quick prep and grill time, you’ll find it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something special but don’t want to compromise on flavor. Plus, the creamy garlic yogurt sauce takes it to the next level, offering a refreshing complement that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your family or guests with this delightful twist on classic comfort food? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Is This Kofta Recipe So Irresistible?

Juicy Flavors: The combination of ground chicken, warm spices, and fresh herbs creates an explosion of flavor that will delight your taste buds.

Quick & Easy: With just a few steps, you can have these kofta sizzling on the grill in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile: Customize your kofta by swapping in ground turkey or your favorite herbs, ensuring it caters to your dietary preferences.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these with a side of fluffy rice pilaf or warm pita bread for a meal that your family and friends will rave about.

Nutritious Twist: Enjoy a guilt-free meal that’s gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a great choice for health-conscious cooks.

For more exciting chicken options, don’t miss the delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken or the savory Garlic Cheesy Chicken.

Juicy Chicken Kofta Ingredients

• To craft the perfect Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce, gather these essential ingredients to ensure that every bite is flavorful and fulfilling.

For the Kofta

Ground Chicken – This provides a succulent base for the kofta; feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version.
Onion – Finely chopped, it offers a sweet and savory depth to the mixture.
Garlic – Minced; this aromatic ingredient is key for a robust flavor profile.
Fresh Parsley – Chopped for a pop of color and a refreshing taste; cilantro works beautifully as an alternative if desired.
Ground Cumin – A must-have spice that adds warmth and an earthy essence to the kofta.
Ground Coriander – Complements cumin perfectly, enhancing the dish’s authentic Middle Eastern flair.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust quantities to suit your palate.
Olive Oil – Recommended for grilling, it helps achieve a lovely char and prevents sticking.

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Plain Yogurt – The creamy base of your sauce; for a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt is a fantastic substitute.
Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed, it brightens the sauce, balancing its creaminess with a zesty kick.

Gathering these ingredients will set you off on the path to creating an unforgettable dish. Enjoy the flavors dance on your taste buds as you grill your kofta to perfection!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce for Flavor Lovers

Step 1: Prep Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to ensure the ingredients integrate well, creating a cohesive mixture that’s fragrant and inviting. This will be the heart of your Juicy Chicken Kofta, so make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Mix Thoroughly
Once combined, continue using your hands to mix the chicken mixture until you achieve a slightly sticky but well-integrated texture. This step is crucial as it helps the kofta hold together while grilling. Aim for around 2-3 minutes of mixing, ensuring that the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the ground chicken.

Step 3: Shape Kofta
To form the kofta, wet your hands lightly with water to prevent sticking, then scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into 10-12 oval forms. The kofta should be about the size of your palm, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Lay them on a clean plate as you work, ready for grilling.

Step 4: Preheat Grill
While you shape the kofta, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 200°C (400°F). Once preheated, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in olive oil to ensure the kofta don’t stick and achieve a beautiful char.

Step 5: Grill Kofta
Carefully place the shaped kofta on the hot grill, maintaining a little space between each one. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on one side until they are golden brown and have nice grill marks. Flip them carefully and grill for another 5-7 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe eating.

Step 6: Prepare Sauce
While the kofta is grilling, prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce. In a separate bowl, combine plain yogurt with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of salt. For an extra kick, you can add minced garlic if desired. Mix thoroughly until smooth, creating a sauce that complements the kofta perfectly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once the kofta are beautifully grilled, remove them from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Serve alongside the creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with additional chopped parsley or fresh mint for a burst of color and flavor, making your Juicy Chicken Kofta a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Expert Tips for Juicy Chicken Kofta

Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can make the kofta tough; blend until just combined for a tender result.
Check the Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat to achieve a sear without drying out the kofta.
Use Wet Hands: Always wet your hands when shaping the kofta to prevent sticking and maintain their form during grilling.
Don’t Skip the Sauce: The Garlic Yogurt Sauce adds essential moisture and flavor; serve it fresh for the best taste experience.
Adjust Spices to Preference: Feel free to customize spices according to your taste; a pinch of cayenne can add a lovely heat to your Juicy Chicken Kofta.
Let Kofta Rest: Allow the grilled kofta to rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure they stay juicy and flavorful.

Make Ahead Options

These Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance, combining the ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The kofta shapes can be formed ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain their flavor and texture, make sure to cover them tightly so they don’t dry out. When ready to grill, simply follow the cooking instructions; this way, you’ll enjoy juicy, flavorful kofta with minimal effort for an unforgettable meal!

Juicy Chicken Kofta with Custom Flavor Twists

Feel free to explore these delightful variations and substitutions to make this recipe your own!

Ground Turkey: Swap the ground chicken for ground turkey to create a leaner, equally delicious alternative.
Herb Swap: Try cilantro instead of parsley for a fresh twist that adds a unique flavor profile everyone will love.
Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the kofta mixture for a spicy kick that elevates every bite.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely diced vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, into the mix for added moisture and nutrition—a colorful surprise!
Nutty Addition: For a nutty flavor, mix in some crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios into the kofta—this twist adds texture and depth that’s rich and satisfying.
Dairy-Free Sauce: Use coconut yogurt instead of plain yogurt to create a creamy, dairy-free garlic sauce that’s indulgent yet lighter.
Tangy Delight: Try adding a dash of tahini to the garlic yogurt sauce for a subtle nuttiness and extra creaminess that complements the kofta beautifully.
Flavor Infusion: Marinate the kofta mixture in spices overnight; this will deepen the flavors and enhance the overall taste, making your dish unforgettable.

Feeling adventurous? For more mouth-watering chicken recipes, don’t forget to check out Tandoori Chicken Flavorful or try the comforting Chicken Tacos Flavorful for a new family favorite!

What to Serve with Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

There’s nothing quite like complementing these deliciously spiced kofta with dishes that enhance their vibrant flavors.

Fluffy Rice Pilaf: This buttery, aromatic side adds a delightful texture that soaks up the garlic yogurt sauce beautifully.
Crisp Mediterranean Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives brings freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the kofta.
Warm Pita Bread: Soft and pillowy, pita is perfect for scooping up kofta and dipping into the creamy garlic yogurt. It’s a must-have!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, lightly seasoned and caramelized, provide a colorful and nutritious contrast to the grilled kofta.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and protein-packed, this dish keeps with the light, healthy theme, offering a perfect counterpoint to the succulent kofta.
Minted Yogurt Dip: For a refreshing twist, serve a second yogurt dip flavored with mint, enhancing the meal’s herbaceous notes.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Reisling or Sauvignon Blanc complements the spices in the kofta, enhancing your dining experience with a refreshing sip.

With these delectable accompaniments, your meal will be a hit, turning weeknight dinners into extraordinary occasions!

How to Store and Freeze Juicy Chicken Kofta

Fridge: Keep the cooked kofta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the garlic yogurt sauce separately to maintain its freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving for the best taste and texture.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the frozen kofta in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain their juiciness.

Serving Suggestions: Pair reheated kofta with fresh garlic yogurt sauce for a delicious meal that still tastes fresh, making it an easy go-to for busy days or unexpected guests.

Juicy Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ground chicken for the kofta?
Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for meat that is pink and moist without any dark spots. It’s also best to choose a package with a date as far in the future as possible to ensure freshness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey is a great substitute, but ensure it has a little fat to keep the kofta juicy!

How should I store the leftover kofta and yogurt sauce?
Very good question! Keep your cooked kofta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the garlic yogurt sauce separately—this will help maintain its creamy texture and flavor. When storing in the fridge, make sure the temperature is set below 40°F (4°C).

Can I freeze the chicken kofta and yogurt sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze the kofta, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Note that the yogurt sauce is not suitable for freezing, so make it fresh when you’re ready to serve!

What if my kofta mixture is too wet?
Great question! If your kofta mixture feels too wet, you can add a couple of tablespoons of breadcrumbs or crushed cracker crumbs. Mix the ingredients until the consistency is just right; it should hold its shape without being sticky. This little tip ensures your kofta doesn’t fall apart while grilling, giving you that perfect juicy bite.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for my guests?
Yes, absolutely! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, check if they have any allergies to common ingredients like garlic or dairy in the yogurt sauce. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute. The recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check with your guests to ensure a delightful meal for everyone!

How can I add a spicy kick to my kofta?
If you love some heat, it’s very simple! You can add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes directly to the kofta mixture. Alternatively, mix a little of these spices into the garlic yogurt sauce itself for a doubled-up spice experience. Adjust to your desired spice level for a customized flavor that suits your palate!