As a busy mom, I know the challenge of creating meals that are quick, nourishing, and a hit with the whole family. That’s exactly why I love making Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce—it’s flavorful, comforting, and comes together in under 40 minutes. Juicy grilled chicken kofta paired with a cool, creamy garlic yogurt sauce makes this dish both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 35 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: Mild spices and creamy sauce make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and naturally gluten-free.
- Versatile: Serve with pita, rice, or fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Kofta:
- 1 lb (500 g) ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced
- Pinch of salt
👉 Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the kofta mixture for heat, or swap in ground lamb for a richer flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Kofta Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the Kofta
Lightly wet your hands and form the mixture into oval-shaped patties or skewered logs. Place them on a plate until ready to grill.
3. Grill the Kofta
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Cook the kofta for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
4. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the kofta cook, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Arrange the kofta on a serving platter, drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce, and garnish with parsley or lemon wedges. Serve with warm pita, rice, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.
Tips for Success
- Keep your hands damp when shaping kofta to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill for even cooking and a nice sear.
- Prep the mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking.
- Double the recipe and freeze shaped kofta for a future easy meal.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Herb Twist: Mix in mint or cilantro.
- Cheesy: Fold in feta for tangy richness.
- Vegetarian: Use chickpeas or lentils in place of chicken.
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store cooked kofta in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Shape raw kofta, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Grill straight from frozen when ready.
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Juicy grilled chicken kofta flavored with warm spices and fresh herbs, served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining!
Nutrition (per serving): 250 calories | 30g protein | 12g fat | 8g carbs
This dish is simple, flavorful, and perfect for bringing everyone to the table. Whether you serve it with pita wraps, rice, or a big salad, it’s a recipe that never disappoints!