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Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt Sauce

This Chicken Kofta Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe features juicy, perfectly seasoned ground chicken shaped into tender kofta and served with a creamy, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. Packed with Middle Eastern-inspired spices and fresh herbs, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special gatherings like iftar. If you're looking for flavorful yet simple chicken recipes, this one delivers bold taste with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken Kofta
  • 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup finely diced onion
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
  • For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional for Serving
  • Warm pita bread
  • Steamed rice
  • Fresh cucumber and tomato salad
  • Lettuce

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic, onion, parsley, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the kofta tender.
  4. Shape the Kofta
  5. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into oval patties or log shapes. If using skewers, mold the mixture around them.
  6. Lightly oil your hands if the mixture feels sticky.
  7. Cook the Kofta
  8. Stovetop Method (Recommended):
  9. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook kofta for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  10. Oven Method:
  11. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place kofta on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  12. Grill Method:
  13. Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.
  14. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
  15. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
  16. Stir until smooth and creamy. Let the sauce rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
  17. Assemble and Serve
  18. Serve warm chicken kofta with a generous drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce.
  19. Enjoy wrapped in pita bread, served over rice, or alongside a fresh salad.

Notes

Use fresh parsley for best flavor.
Avoid overcooking to keep the kofta juicy.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat if desired.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked kofta for up to 2 months (store sauce separately).