Name: Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 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; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing grill); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; Pinch of salt

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Introduction

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings Middle Eastern spices to your table. These tender grilled meatballs pair perfectly with a tangy yogurt sauce, making for a delicious and easy meal.

The image shows five browned, grilled meat skewers placed side by side on a white plate resting on a white marbled surface. Each skewer has a deep golden brown texture with some char marks, and dollops of white creamy sauce with green herb flecks are spread evenly on top of the meat pieces. The plate is also covered with more of the creamy sauce mixed with finely chopped green herbs, and small drops of yellow oil add brightness around the edges. Fresh green herb leaves are scattered around the plate, enhancing the dish’s vibrant presentation. Thin wooden skewers pierce through each piece of meat, lined in parallel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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 (for sauce)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Form the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas, about the size of a golf ball.
Step 3: Preheat the grill and brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the koftas for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and reach a safe internal temperature.
Step 5: While the koftas are cooking, prepare the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing the yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl.
Step 6: Serve the grilled koftas hot with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, soak wooden skewers in water before grilling the koftas on them.
Add finely chopped mint or cilantro to the meat mixture for a fresh twist.
Use Greek yogurt for a creamier and thicker garlic sauce.
If you don’t have a grill, cook the koftas in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through.

Storage

Store leftover koftas and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the koftas gently in the oven or microwave before serving. The yogurt sauce is best served cold or at room temperature and should not be heated.

How to Serve

The image shows three grilled meat skewers placed on a white plate, each skewer having three plump, browned meat pieces with charred spots for a grilled look. A creamy white sauce with green herbs is generously drizzled over the top of each skewer, adding contrast to the golden-brown meat. The sauce covers the base of the plate, with small pools of oil glistening on the surface. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled across the sauce and meat, with a sprig of parsley placed at the back for decoration. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a lean alternative and will work well with the spices and yogurt sauce.

How do I know when the koftas are cooked?

Cook the koftas until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. They should be firm to the touch but still juicy inside.