Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

If you’re searching for a meal that dazzles with simplicity yet delivers bold, unforgettable flavor, this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce recipe is absolutely A Must-Try! Succulent spiced chicken kofta are char-grilled to smoky perfection and made complete with a cool, creamy garlic yogurt sauce that you’ll want to eat by the spoonful. This dish easily impresses at family dinners but is unfussy enough for a quick weeknight meal, giving you the best of both worlds in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this A Must-Try! dish is short, but each component adds so much to the end result. From aromatic herbs to creamy yogurt, these essentials work together to create rich layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe truly unforgettable.

• Ground Chicken: Lean and juicy, it holds the kofta together and takes on all the spices beautifully.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion brings subtle sweetness and moisture that keeps the kofta tender.
• Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic adds aromatic intensity to both the kofta mixture and the sauce—don’t skimp here!
• Fresh Parsley: This herb brightens up the mixture and gives lovely flecks of green for color.
• Ground Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin is your flavor backbone in this recipe.
• Ground Coriander: Coriander delivers citrusy depth that pairs delightfully with chicken.
• Salt: Just the right amount ties all the flavors together and enhances every bite.
• Black Pepper: A gentle kick of heat for well-rounded seasoning.
• Plain Yogurt: Creamy, tangy yogurt forms the base of that irresistible garlic sauce.
• Lemon Juice: Just a splash brings zippy freshness to the sauce and helps balance the richness.
• Olive Oil: A light brushing ensures your kofta grill up golden-brown and never stick to the pan.

How to Make Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Bring the Kofta Mixture Together

Start by adding your ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley to a large mixing bowl. This is the heart of your kofta, so make sure everything is finely chopped and evenly mixed. It’s best to use your hands to gently combine all the ingredients, which helps keep the mixture tender rather than dense.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Next, add the ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper directly into your bowl. These spices are what transform your chicken into an A Must-Try! masterpiece. Mix everything thoroughly, but don’t overwork the meat; just combine until even for the juiciest texture.

Step 3: Shape Your Kofta

With clean, slightly wet hands (trust me, this trick prevents sticking), shape the mixture into elongated ovals—think short, thick sausages. This classic kofta shape isn’t just for looks; it helps the chicken cook evenly and get those coveted grill marks on all sides.

Step 4: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, then brush it generously with olive oil. Carefully lay the kofta on the hot grates and listen for that satisfying sizzle. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, resisting the urge to move them too much—this achieves a gorgeous golden crust while locking in juice.

Step 5: Whip Up the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While your kofta grills, stir together the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. The freshness of lemon and tang of yogurt perfectly mellow the garlic, creating a sauce that elevates every bite. Pop it in the fridge while you finish the kofta so it chills and thickens nicely.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Once your kofta are cooked through and deeply golden, it’s time for the grand finale. Pile them on a platter and drizzle generously with your garlic yogurt sauce. Serve immediately and watch every face light up after the first bite—it’s truly A Must-Try!

How to Serve Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Garnishes

Top your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a shower of freshness. A sprinkle of sumac, sliced red onions, or a dusting of smoked paprika also takes this dish to new heights—your guests will feel like they’re dining straight from your favorite Middle Eastern restaurant!

Side Dishes

This dish loves good company. For a classic spread, serve alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm, herby flatbreads. Add a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad for vibrant color and contrast—it makes the meal feel special, and fully worthy of the A Must-Try! label.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, skewer the kofta before grilling for easy serving and a fun twist! You can also tuck them into pita pockets with shredded lettuce and pickled onions, or serve them bowl-style with grains, veggies, and extra garlic yogurt sauce drizzled over the top. However you plate it, this dish will always say “A Must-Try!”

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the chicken kofta and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The kofta will keep for up to three days and the sauce for about the same. Keeping them apart ensures the kofta stay juicy and the sauce fresh and creamy.

Freezing

To freeze, place cooked and cooled kofta on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months! Simply defrost in the fridge overnight. It’s best not to freeze the yogurt sauce, as it tends to separate when thawed.

Reheating

For maximum juiciness, gently reheat the kofta in a covered skillet over medium heat, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 10 minutes). Add a splash of water to the pan if needed. Serve hot with freshly made garlic yogurt sauce, and it’ll be just like a fresh batch—still totally A Must-Try!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this recipe. It has a similar texture and absorbs the spices well, so you’ll still get that signature flavor that makes this A Must-Try!

Do I need a grill, or can I cook these in the oven?

No grill? No problem! You can bake the kofta on a lined baking sheet at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway, or use a stovetop grill pan. Both methods work great for this A Must-Try! meal.

Can I make the mixture in advance?

Yes! The kofta mixture can be prepped up to 24 hours ahead. Store it covered in the fridge and shape just before grilling for a speedy A Must-Try! weeknight dinner.

Is there a dairy-free sauce alternative?

For a dairy-free spin, try using a plant-based yogurt and follow the same instructions for the garlic sauce. The taste remains fantastic, maintaining that A Must-Try! quality.

What should I do if the mixture feels sticky or hard to shape?

If the mixture sticks, wetting your hands before shaping works wonders. If it’s still tricky, a tablespoon of breadcrumbs can help bind it, but try to keep add-ins minimal to let the flavors of your A Must-Try! kofta shine through.

Final Thoughts

If you love a meal that’s rewarding yet refreshingly simple, Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is genuinely A Must-Try! It’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen, delighting everyone at the table with its dazzling flavors. Give it a try and experience firsthand why this recipe always steals the spotlight!

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