If you are searching for a flavorful yet approachable dish to brighten your dinner table, this Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. Juicy ground chicken infused with warm spices and fresh herbs gets transformed on the grill into tender koftas that boast a perfect char. Paired with a cool, tangy garlic yogurt sauce, this recipe balances smoky and creamy textures beautifully, making every bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, this delightfully simple recipe is sure to become a favorite you return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of any great dish comes down to its ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. Each element contributes to the overall harmony — from the aromatic spices that bring warmth to the chicken, to the fresh parsley that adds a pop of brightness, and the garlic yogurt sauce that cuts through the richness with creamy tang. Simple yet essential, these ingredients are easy to find and come together effortlessly.
- 500 grams ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps the koftas tender and juicy.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the mixture.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a rich, savory depth that highlights the garlic yogurt sauce.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brightens the flavor with a fresh herbaceous note.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings earthy warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a slightly citrusy and floral undertone.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning that enhances every flavor in the kofta.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides gentle heat and sharpness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling): Prevents sticking and imparts a delicate fruity richness on the grill.
- 1 cup plain yogurt: The cool, creamy base for the garlic yogurt sauce.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Lends bright acidity that balances richness.
- Pinch of salt: Necessary to season the yogurt sauce perfectly.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Kofta Ingredients
Start by placing the ground chicken in a large bowl, then add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly until the spices and herbs are evenly distributed and the mixture feels cohesive. This step is crucial because it ensures each bite bursts with flavor and the koftas hold together well on the grill.
Step 2: Shape the Koftas
With your hands lightly moistened, shape the mixture into small, oval-shaped koftas, about the size of a large meatball but elongated lengthwise. This classic shape helps them cook evenly on the grill and makes them perfect for skewering or serving as finger food. Take your time here — uniform size means they’ll finish cooking at the same rate and turn out perfectly juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is just right for achieving those beautiful grill marks without drying out the koftas. Lightly brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking and to add a subtle golden finish as the chicken cooks. A well-prepped grill is the secret behind the fantastic texture and flavor of these koftas.
Step 4: Grill the Koftas
Place the koftas on the hot grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. Keep an eye on them so they develop a nicely charred exterior while remaining juicy inside. When the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (75°C), your koftas are perfectly cooked and ready to be paired with the sauce.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the koftas are grilling, whisk together the plain yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This sauce adds a luscious, cool contrast that complements the smoky spices in the chicken beautifully. Don’t hesitate to adjust lemon or salt to your taste to get that perfect tang.
Step 6: Serve Hot for Best Flavor
Once the koftas are off the grill, plate them immediately alongside a bowl of the garlic yogurt sauce. They taste incredible warm, and the combination of hot, spiced meat with the refreshing sauce is what makes this Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe so extraordinary. Serve with your favorite accompaniments and enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint sprinkled on top add a lovely burst of color and freshness. You can also scatter some toasted pine nuts or thinly sliced red onions for crunch and mild sharpness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of sumac brings an extra layer of flavor and an elegant touch to presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy pita bread, naan, or warm flatbreads that are perfect for scooping up kofta and sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it atop a bed of fragrant basmati rice or alongside a crisp salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. Roasted vegetables or grilled corn also complement the smoky flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, thread the koftas onto skewers to serve as appetizers or for easy grilling and sharing. Lay them on a wooden board surrounded by bowls of garlic yogurt sauce, pickled vegetables, and flatbreads for a family-style feast. If you want a light lunch, assemble them into wraps with fresh greens and extra sauce for a handheld delight you can enjoy anywhere.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any koftas left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the garlic yogurt sauce separately in its own container to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked koftas by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a ziplock freezer bag. They will keep well for up to two months. Remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling for best results.
Reheating
Reheat cooked koftas gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 8–10 minutes, to keep them moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat. Rewarm the garlic yogurt sauce separately and stir before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other ground meats instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground lamb, beef, or a mix of meats also work wonderfully in this kofta recipe, providing their own distinct flavor profiles.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I make it milder?
This recipe has a gentle warmth from the black pepper and spices but is not overly spicy. You can omit the pepper or reduce spices slightly for a milder version.
Is the garlic yogurt sauce necessary?
The sauce is a delicious complement that balances the smoky richness of the kofta, but if you’re short on time, a simple lemon wedge or store-bought tzatziki can work as well.
Can I make the koftas ahead of time?
You can prepare and shape the koftas a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated. Just grill them right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can cook the koftas in a grill pan, broil them, or even sauté them in a lightly oiled skillet on the stovetop. They will still taste fantastic.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both special and comforting, perfect for sharing around the table. Its combination of seasoned, juicy meat with a bright, creamy sauce is simply unbeatable. Give it a try the next time you want something fresh, flavorful, and sure to impress — I promise it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (approximately 12 koftas)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe features tender and flavorful ground chicken meatballs seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. Grilled to perfection, the koftas have a delightful charred exterior and juicy interior, complemented by a cooling and tangy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, served with pita bread or rice.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Kofta
- 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 grilling)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper thoroughly until evenly combined.
- Shape Koftas: Form the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas, roughly the size of large meatballs but elongated to hold shape well on the grill.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking and facilitate even cooking.
- Grill Koftas: Place the koftas on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. Cook until fully done with a nicely charred exterior.
- Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce: While the koftas cook, blend the plain yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Serve the grilled chicken koftas hot alongside the garlic yogurt sauce. They pair beautifully with pita bread or served over rice for a satisfying and complete meal.
Notes
- Make sure the grill is well oiled before placing the koftas to avoid sticking.
- Adjust the seasoning of the yogurt sauce according to your taste.
- Can be made using a stovetop grill pan if an outdoor grill is not available.
- Ensure koftas are cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Fresh herbs like mint or cilantro can be added to the kofta mix for extra flavor.
