Name: Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 500 grams (about 1 pound) 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 (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced (additional for the sauce)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about these Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe that has me coming back to it time and time again. The blend of fragrant spices mixed with tender ground chicken, all complemented by a creamy, garlicky yogurt sauce, feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight meal or hoping to impress friends at a small gathering, this dish fits beautifully into both moments.

What really makes this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe stand out for me is how quick and accessible it is without ever sacrificing flavor. Plus, the garlic yogurt sauce adds a cooling contrast that perfectly balances the spices — it’s like the yin and yang of flavors. I’m excited to share this with you because it’s a recipe that’s easy to love, and I think you’ll find it just as rewarding to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create a harmony of fresh, zesty, and warm flavors. They’re pretty straightforward, but a couple of simple tips can really help you nail this recipe.

Ground Chicken: I prefer fresh ground chicken for moist koftas, but if you buy packaged, make sure it’s good quality and not too lean to keep the koftas tender.
Onion: Finely chop for sweetness and moisture; red or yellow onions work well.
Garlic: Freshly minced gives a punchier, more aromatic taste than pre-minced.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright herbaceous note—don’t skip it for that fresh zip!
Ground Cumin: A warm, earthy spice that’s essential for that Middle Eastern vibe.
Ground Coriander: Offers a citrusy undertone that balances the cumin.
Salt: You’ll want to adjust it to taste, but it’s key to bring out all the flavors in the kofta.
Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat; freshly ground is best for boldness.
Plain Yogurt: The base of the sauce—go for full-fat for creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a fantastic thicker option.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed to brighten the garlic yogurt sauce with a fresh zing.
Olive Oil: For grilling—adds beautiful caramelization and keeps things moist.

Variations

I love making this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe my own depending on what’s in the fridge or who I’m cooking for. Personalizing recipes keeps the cooking fun and means you can always cater to your mood or craving.

Spice It Up: If you like heat, I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne to the kofta mix — it adds a delicious smoky kick.
Fresh Herbs Swap: Sometimes I swap parsley for fresh cilantro or mint—both give a lovely twist to the flavor profile.
Make It Kid-Friendly: Reduce the cumin and coriander a bit, and the garlic yogurt sauce will be milder but still tasty — perfect if you have little ones.
Grilling Alternative: When I’m short on time, pan-frying the koftas in a skillet works beautifully, just watch the heat so they don’t dry out.
Dietary Adjustments: For dairy-free, try substituting the yogurt with a coconut yogurt alternative and add a dash of garlic powder instead of fresh garlic.

How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Kofta Ingredients

Start by combining the ground chicken with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently mix everything together—this helps keep the texture tender. Be careful not to overmix because that can make the koftas tough. Once combined, cover and let the mixture rest in the fridge for about 20 minutes; this resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Shape Your Koftas

Wet your hands slightly (this prevents sticking), and form the mixture into small oval shapes or little sausages about the size of your thumb. It’s a great little meditative step—I find it relaxing and you can really get a feel for the right size and shape. Place the formed koftas on a plate or tray, and refrigerate for another 10-15 minutes if you have time; this helps them hold together better during cooking.

Step 3: Grill or Pan-Fry Your Koftas

Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the koftas and cook for about 4-5 minutes each side, turning carefully so they brown nicely without breaking apart. You’re looking for a beautiful golden crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). I always trust the color and feel, but if unsure, a quick poke with a meat thermometer helps assure they’re cooked through but still juicy.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While your koftas are cooking, mix plain yogurt with freshly minced garlic and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir well until smooth. Taste and add a pinch of salt or more lemon juice if you want extra tang. The sauce should be bright and garlicky but creamy enough to complement the richness of the koftas.

How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of fresh garnishes—some chopped parsley, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, or even a dash of sumac really elevate the dish. The herbs brighten everything, and I love how pine nuts add a subtle crunch. You could also add thinly sliced red onions for a little sharpness and color contrast.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or fluffy basmati rice. I often serve it with a crisp cucumber salad or a simple tomato and cucumber chopped salad to keep things fresh and light. Roasted vegetables or a side of grilled eggplant also make great companions when I’m looking for something heartier.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to skewer these koftas and serve them as appetizers with little bowls of the garlic yogurt sauce for dipping—it’s always a hit! Another fun way is to assemble a mezze platter with the koftas nestled alongside olives, hummus, and flatbreads. It turns dinner into a relaxed, communal feast where everyone can dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I store any leftover koftas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce keeps well too, just keep it separate from the meat to avoid it getting watery. Cold koftas are fine for a quick snack or salad topper the next day!

Freezing

I’ve frozen uncooked koftas before by placing them on a tray to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer bag. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. Freezing the cooked koftas works too, but the texture is best when freshly cooked.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the koftas in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the exterior from getting rubbery—that crispy outer layer is something I always try to preserve. The garlic yogurt sauce is best served fresh, but you can stir it well and serve chilled alongside reheated koftas.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and will still yield juicy koftas, though it can be a bit leaner, so be sure not to overcook. You might want to add a little bit of olive oil or an extra egg to keep the mix moist.
How long does it take to make this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe from start to finish?

From mixing to serving, you’re looking at about 40 minutes total. Most of the time is hands-off resting and cooking, making it a perfect quick weeknight option.
Is the garlic yogurt sauce suitable for making ahead?

You can make the garlic yogurt sauce a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated, but I recommend adding the lemon juice just before serving to keep it fresh and tangy.
Can I bake the koftas instead of grilling or pan-frying?

Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes works well—just turn them halfway through. Baking is a great hands-off method and still delivers juicy koftas.
What can I serve with the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe to make it a complete meal?

Pair with warm pita bread, a fresh cucumber salad, or fluffy rice for a complete and balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or a green salad also work great to add color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe holds a special place in my recipe stash because it’s quick, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. There’s something about those juicy, spiced koftas paired with a tangy, garlicky sauce that just feels like a little everyday indulgence. I really hope you give it a try—you might find it becomes your go-to when you want something comforting but a little different.