Irresistible Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
This Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavor-packed Middle Eastern-inspired dish that’s juicy, aromatic, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. Ground chicken is seasoned with warm spices and fresh herbs, shaped into skewers or patties, then grilled or pan-seared to perfection. Paired with a cool, tangy garlic yogurt sauce, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is irresistible.
Ingredients
For the chicken kofta:
1 lb ground chicken
1 small onion, finely grated
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
For the creamy garlic yogurt sauce:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs if using. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the kofta tender.
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into small logs around skewers or form into patties.
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and brush with a little oil. Cook the kofta for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
For the sauce, mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve the chicken kofta hot with the creamy garlic yogurt sauce on the side.
Notes
For an extra smoky flavor, cook the kofta on an outdoor grill.
Serve with warm pita, rice, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad for a complete meal.
You can prepare the kofta mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.