Irresistible Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Irresistible Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful and juicy Middle Eastern-inspired dish made with ground chicken, herbs, and warm spices, served with a cooling garlic yogurt sauce that ties everything together. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, these koftas are perfect for wraps, bowls, or served with rice and veggies.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how these chicken koftas are packed with flavor while still being light and healthy. They’re quick to make, easy to shape, and go with just about anything. The garlic yogurt sauce is creamy, tangy, and the perfect match for the spiced kofta — I always make extra to drizzle on everything.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken kofta:

• Ground chicken

• Onion (grated or finely chopped)

• Garlic (minced)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped)

• Ground cumin

• Ground coriander

• Paprika

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil (for cooking or brushing)

For the creamy garlic yogurt sauce:

• Plain Greek yogurt

• Garlic (minced or grated)

• Lemon juice

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Optional: chopped herbs (like dill or mint)

Directions

1. I mix the ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices in a bowl until well combined.

2. I shape the mixture into oval patties or log-shaped koftas using damp hands.

3. I cook them in one of three ways:

   • Grilled: On medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side

   • Pan-seared: In a skillet with olive oil until golden and cooked through

   • Baked: At 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway

4. While the koftas cook, I whisk together all the yogurt sauce ingredients in a small bowl.

5. I serve the koftas warm with a generous drizzle of the garlic yogurt sauce and extra herbs on top.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: Around 35 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add chili flakes or cayenne for extra heat.

• For a dairy-free version, I use a plant-based yogurt alternative.

• These also work well with ground turkey or lamb.

• I serve them in pita wraps with cucumber and tomato or in rice bowls with grilled veggies.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover kofta can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat them in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The yogurt sauce stays fresh for about 3 days in the fridge and makes a great dip or dressing.

FAQs

Can I freeze the kofta?

Yes, I freeze the uncooked or cooked kofta on a tray, then transfer them to a sealed container. I cook or reheat them straight from frozen when needed.

What can I serve with chicken kofta?

I love serving it with rice, couscous, pita bread, grilled veggies, or a chopped cucumber-tomato salad.

Can I bake these instead of frying or grilling?

Absolutely. I bake them at 400°F until golden and fully cooked — usually about 20–25 minutes.

What’s the texture of the kofta like?

They’re juicy, slightly firm, and full of fresh herbs and spices. Not dry at all, especially with the yogurt sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not spicy by default, but I sometimes add chili or hot sauce to give it a kick.

Conclusion

Irresistible Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful, healthy meal that’s easy to make and full of Middle Eastern-inspired spices. Whether I’m making a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish always hits the mark with its perfect balance of bold and creamy.

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