How to Make Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe in 5 Easy Steps

Discover the perfect blend of Middle Eastern flavors with this mouthwatering Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe. This traditional dish combines aromatic spices with tender ground chicken, all complemented by a cooling Garlic Yogurt Sauce that brings everything together. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something different for your family meal, this chicken kofta recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

For the Chicken Kofta:
– 1 pound ground chicken (preferably thigh meat for more flavor)
– 1 small onion, finely grated
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon allspice
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Kitchen Tools:
– Mixing bowls
– Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
– Grater
– Measuring spoons and cups
– Grill or grill pan
– Food processor (optional)

Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe Dish

– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
– Cooking Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
– Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe Easily

1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mint, and all spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne, salt, and pepper). Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe tough.

2. Form the Koftas: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a soaked wooden skewer, forming an elongated sausage shape about 4 inches long.

3. Chill: Place the formed koftas on a plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

4. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: While the koftas chill, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

5. Cook the Koftas: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the koftas lightly with olive oil and grill for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

6. Serve: Arrange the koftas on a platter, drizzle with the garlic yogurt sauce, and garnish with additional fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of sumac if desired.

Nutritional Benefits of This Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe Recipe

This dish offers an excellent balance of protein from the chicken and Greek yogurt, healthy fats from olive oil, and various vitamins and minerals from the fresh herbs and spices. Each serving provides approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 28g
– Carbohydrates: 7g
– Fat: 19g (mostly healthy unsaturated fats)
– Fiber: 1g
– Calcium: 10% DV
– Iron: 15% DV

Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe Lovers

– Protein Variations: Substitute ground turkey, lamb, or a mixture of beef and lamb for chicken.
– Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for the sauce.
– Baking Method: Bake koftas at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes for a hands-off approach.
– Spice Adjustments: Add a pinch of sumac or za’atar to the meat mixture for an authentic Middle Eastern flavor.
– Serving Ideas: Serve with warm pita, tabbouleh salad, pickled vegetables, or hummus for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

– Overmixing the Meat: This makes the koftas dense and tough rather than tender.
– Skipping the Chilling Step: Cold meat holds its shape better during cooking.
– Overcooking: Chicken koftas can dry out quickly; use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without overcooking.
– Under-seasoning: Ground chicken needs plenty of seasoning to shine.
– Making Koftas Too Thick: Thinner koftas cook more evenly and develop better texture.

Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe Fresh

– Refrigeration: Store cooked koftas separately from the sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Raw koftas can be frozen (without skewers) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
– Reheating: Warm koftas in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until heated through. The sauce should not be frozen as it may separate.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe at Home

Creating this Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe at home brings the exotic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right to your table. The blend of aromatic spices in the tender koftas perfectly balances with the cool, tangy Garlic Yogurt Sauce, creating a memorable dish that’s impressive yet surprisingly easy to prepare. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by adjusting the spices or trying different herbs—cooking is about personal expression and enjoyment!

FAQs About Cooking Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Can I make chicken kofta without skewers?
Yes! You can shape the mixture into small patties or meatballs instead. Adjust cooking time accordingly—patties will need about 4-5 minutes per side.

Why is my chicken kofta falling apart during cooking?
This usually happens if the mixture is too wet or not chilled enough. Add 2-3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture, and ensure you chill the formed koftas before cooking.

Can I prepare chicken kofta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. The garlic yogurt sauce actually tastes better after the flavors have melded for a few hours.

Is this recipe spicy?
With ¼ teaspoon of cayenne, it has a mild kick. Adjust the cayenne pepper up or down according to your spice preference.

What side dishes pair well with chicken kofta?
Rice pilaf, flatbreads, Mediterranean salad, roasted vegetables, or hummus make excellent accompaniments to complete your meal.