Name: Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 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; Pinch of salt

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Introduction

Chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings Middle Eastern flair to your table. These spiced ground chicken patties pair perfectly with a tangy, creamy sauce, making them a delicious meal for any occasion.

The image shows three grilled meat skewers placed side by side on a round white plate. Each skewer is golden brown with grill marks and small charred spots, topped with a thick layer of creamy white sauce. Fresh green herbs, roughly chopped, are sprinkled evenly over the sauce and meat, adding a pop of bright green to the look. The plate is on a white marbled surface, and the overall scene is lit naturally, highlighting the texture and color contrast of the cooked meat, sauce, and herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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)
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley.
Step 2: Add ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Wet your hands with water and shape the mixture into elongated oval-shaped kofta.
Step 4: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill the kofta for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: While the kofta cooks, prepare the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing the yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
Step 7: Serve the kofta hot with the garlic yogurt sauce and your choice of sides, such as rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

Tips & Variations

For a more intense garlic flavor in the sauce, add a small clove of minced garlic or garlic powder.
Swap ground chicken with ground turkey or lamb for different taste profiles.
To keep kofta moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store any leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain juiciness. The garlic yogurt sauce keeps well for 2 days but should be stirred before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows three grilled kebabs placed side by side on a white plate with a rustic texture. Each kebab is golden brown with charred spots, and they are topped with a white sauce spread unevenly across the top, garnished with chopped green herbs. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with some scattered green leaves around it. The overall look is fresh and appetizing with a rustic feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the kofta instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the kofta in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked and browned.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use plain yogurt without any additives containing gluten.