Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt has been my go-to recipe for both casual weeknight dinners and impressive entertaining. There’s something magical about the way these aromatic spiced meat patties sizzle in the pan, releasing that intoxicating blend of cumin, coriander, and garlic that fills my kitchen. Paired with cooling garlic yogurt sauce, each bite delivers the perfect balance of bold flavors and creamy contrast. I first discovered this Middle Eastern treasure during a cooking class where the instructor’s simple technique transformed humble ground chicken into something extraordinary. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your recipe collection too!
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Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
These Chicken Koftas with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are juicy, herby, and perfectly spiced. They’re pan-seared or grilled to golden perfection, then drizzled with a creamy, tangy garlic yogurt that brings the whole dish to life. A Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s light, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
🟡 For the Chicken Koftas:
1 lb ground chicken
1/4 cup grated onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped parsley or cilantro
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cinnamon
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
🟡 Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 clove garlic, grated or minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
🟡 Optional for Serving:
Warm pita or flatbread
Chopped tomatoes and cucumbers
Fresh herbs (parsley, mint, dill)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine all kofta ingredients. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork the meat.
2. Shape into small oval patties or meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook koftas in batches, 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the garlic yogurt sauce. Taste and adjust salt or lemon.
5. Serve koftas warm with garlic yogurt drizzled over the top.
6. Add pita, chopped veggies, and herbs for a full Mediterranean plate.
Notes
Grill the koftas for a smoky flavor—just brush with oil and grill 4–5 mins per side.
You can prep the yogurt sauce 1–2 days ahead.
Leftover koftas are perfect in wraps or bowls the next day!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main
- Method: Skillet or Grill
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
Perfect Balance of Flavors & Textures
The magic of chicken kofta lies in its incredible depth of flavor packed into each tender patty. Ground chicken gets transformed with a symphony of spices – earthy cumin, fragrant coriander, warming cinnamon, and zingy garlic. I love how the herbs bring brightness while the grated onion adds moisture and sweetness. The texture is equally impressive – crispy exterior giving way to a juicy interior that practically melts in your mouth. And that cooling garlic yogurt sauce? Pure heaven. The tangy creaminess cuts through the richness of the kofta, creating that perfect bite that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
Quick & Versatile Meal Solution
What truly makes this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt a weeknight hero is how quickly it comes together. I can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes – perfect for those evenings when I’m rushing between work and my daughter’s soccer practice. The versatility is another huge plus. Shape them into patties for sandwiches, form them around skewers for a fun presentation, or make mini versions as appetizers. The mixture can even be prepared ahead and refrigerated, making your future self very grateful. Whether served with fluffy rice, wrapped in warm pita, or nestled atop a crisp salad, these kofta adapt to whatever mood strikes.
Essential Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Kofta Mixture
The secret to incredibly tender kofta lies in how you handle the meat mixture. I’ve learned to gently mix the ingredients just until combined – overmixing leads to tough, dense patties. Adding a touch of breadcrumbs (about 2-3 tablespoons per pound) helps bind everything while keeping the texture light. For extra moisture, don’t skip the grated onion! I squeeze out some excess liquid but leave enough to keep the chicken juicy. Letting the mixture rest for 15 minutes before shaping allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If your mixture feels too wet, pop it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes – this makes shaping much easier and helps the kofta hold together when cooking.
Mastering the Cooking Technique
The difference between good and amazing chicken kofta comes down to cooking technique. I’ve found that a medium-high heat creates that perfect golden crust while ensuring the inside cooks through without drying out. Whether you’re pan-frying, grilling, or baking, avoid the temptation to constantly flip or move the kofta – let that beautiful crust develop! For pan-frying, about 4-5 minutes per side usually does the trick. When making skewered versions, slightly flattening the meat around the skewer ensures even cooking. For the garlic yogurt sauce, make it at least 30 minutes ahead so those flavors have time to develop their full potential.
Serving Ideas & Creative Variations
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt shines brightest when paired with complementary sides that enhance its Middle Eastern flavors. I love serving them with warm pita bread and a simple cucumber-tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. Fluffy saffron rice makes an excellent bed for these flavorful patties, soaking up any juices and that creamy yogurt sauce. For a lighter option, try them atop a vibrant tabbouleh salad or alongside roasted vegetables sprinkled with za’atar. My family goes crazy for a mezze-style spread with hummus, olives, and crispy zucchini rings – perfect for casual entertaining that always impresses guests without hours in the kitchen.
Exciting Flavor Twists to Try
Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on traditional chicken kofta! My favorite variation adds feta cheese crumbles to the meat mixture, creating pockets of tangy saltiness throughout. For heat lovers, incorporate a finely chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of harissa paste into the mix. I’ve experimented with different herbs too – mint adds unexpected freshness, while cilantro brings a vibrant twist. For the yogurt sauce, try stirring in cucumber and dill for a tzatziki-inspired version, or add avocado for creamy richness. You can even play with the protein – ground turkey works beautifully, and a combination of chicken and lamb creates incredible depth of flavor that will transport you straight to a Mediterranean seaside taverna.
Storage & Troubleshooting Guide
Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness
Keeping your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt fresh is simple with the right approach. Store cooked kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days – they actually taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop! For meal prep, I often make a double batch and freeze the shaped but uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. The yogurt sauce should be stored separately in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for 2-3 days. I recommend giving it a good stir before serving as it may separate slightly during storage.
Solving Common Kofta Challenges
Even experienced cooks encounter challenges with kofta sometimes. If your patties are falling apart during cooking, the mixture might be too wet. Add a tablespoon of extra breadcrumbs or refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to firm up. Dry kofta usually means either overcooking or not enough moisture in the mixture – try adding more grated onion or even a tablespoon of olive oil next time. If your kofta taste bland, be generous with those spices and don’t skimp on salt – chicken needs proper seasoning to shine. For yogurt sauce that’s too thin, strain your yogurt through cheesecloth for an hour before mixing in the other ingredients. Too thick? Simply thin with a splash of milk or lemon juice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix and shape the kofta up to 24 hours ahead, keeping them covered in the refrigerator. The yogurt sauce can also be prepared a day in advance – the flavors actually improve with time.
What’s the best way to prevent dry chicken kofta?
Don’t overcook them! Cook just until they reach 165°F internally. Adding grated onion and a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture helps maintain moisture during cooking.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through. Brush with olive oil before baking for a golden exterior similar to pan-fried versions.
How can I make these kofta gluten-free?
Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers, certified gluten-free oats, or almond flour. The texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.
What’s the secret to perfectly seasoned Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt?
Don’t be shy with spices! Bloom them in a little oil before adding to the meat mixture to intensify their flavor. Always taste-test by cooking a small portion before shaping all your kofta.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt represents everything I love about cooking – simple ingredients transformed into something truly special through thoughtful preparation and bold flavors. The way these aromatic patties pair with cool, creamy yogurt creates that perfect harmony that makes a meal memorable. I hope you’ll experience the same joy I feel when my kitchen fills with those incredible spice aromas and my family gathers eagerly around the table. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive spread for guests, these kofta deliver satisfaction in every bite. Find more inspiration for your next culinary adventure on Pinterest!