Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful dish that brings the wonderful flavors of the Middle East right to your kitchen. This savory recipe consists of tender, spiced ground chicken, shaped into small patties or logs, and served with a rich and tangy yogurt sauce. As you savor each bite, you’ll be treated to an explosion of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends and family.
Why We Love This Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
You will adore this Chicken Kofta recipe for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to whip up a delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple and often found in your pantry, ensuring you can create this dish anytime the craving strikes.
Moreover, the versatility of kofta allows you to serve it in various ways. Whether you pair it with warm pita bread, a refreshing salad, or fluffy rice, you have endless options to enhance the dining experience. The creamy garlic yogurt sauce adds a deliciously tangy complement that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
Lastly, this dish is a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to your family without venturing too far beyond traditional tastes. The spices and fresh herbs in the kofta are familiar yet exotic, creating a comforting dish that will soon become a staple in your home cooking.
Ingredients for Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
To create your Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Kofta:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Directions
Start your delicious journey by preparing the chicken kofta. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the heart of your kofta, so ensure all ingredients are evenly dispersed for maximum flavor.
Next, add the beaten egg and breadcrumbs into the chicken mixture. The egg acts as a binder, while the breadcrumbs help achieve the perfect texture. Combine these ingredients thoroughly, using your hands or a spatula, until everything is well incorporated.
Once your mixture is ready, shape it into small oval patties or logs. This helps the kofta cook evenly and makes for an appealing presentation later on.
Now comes the cooking process. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the shaped kofta in the skillet, ensuring not to crowd them. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. To check for doneness, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, remove the kofta from the skillet and keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.
The creamy garlic yogurt sauce is a breeze to prepare. In a separate bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill. Stir the mixture until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste. The yogurt sauce adds a creamy, garlicky tang that beautifully complements the spices in the kofta.
To serve, drizzle the chicken kofta with the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. You can also serve it alongside warm pita bread, a fresh garden salad, or a serving of fluffy rice. As you gather around the table, your home will be filled with the tantalizing aroma of your freshly prepared meal.
How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
When serving Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce, presentation can make all the difference. Start by placing several kofta on a platter. Drizzle the creamy garlic yogurt sauce generously over the kofta or serve it on the side for dipping—this keeps the flavors separate and allows everyone to control how much sauce they want.
For a delightful visual and textural contrast, consider adding a fresh salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and crisp lettuce tossed in a light vinaigrette. The bright colors and refreshing crunch of the salad will balance the richness of the kofta and sauce.
Warm pita bread is another fantastic option. You can cut it into triangles for easy dipping or serve it whole, allowing guests to create their own wraps filled with kofta, sauce, and salad. Rice or couscous also pairs beautifully, providing a hearty base that complements the dish.
Finally, don’t forget garnishing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional dill on top of your kofta not only makes the dish look appealing but adds an extra burst of flavor.
Expert Tips for Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
To ensure that your Chicken Kofta turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to great flavor in kofta lies in using fresh herbs and spices. Don’t skip on the fresh parsley and cilantro; they elevate the taste and aroma of the dish.
- Handle the Mixture Gently: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture as this can result in tough kofta. Mix just until everything is blended.
- Control the Heat: Cooking at medium heat allows the kofta to brown nicely without burning. If they brown too quickly, reduce the heat to ensure they cook through without the outside becoming overly dark.
- Rest Before Serving: After cooking, let the kofta rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps them moist.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes.
How to Store Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
If you find yourself with leftovers (though we doubt they will last long!), storing your Chicken Kofta is simple. Allow the kofta to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days—just make sure to keep the creamy garlic yogurt sauce in a separate container to maintain its freshness.
If you want to save the kofta for later, consider freezing them. Place the cooled kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the skillet or oven until warm.
Variations of Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While this recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Ground Meat Variations: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using ground turkey or lean beef instead. Each meat will bring a unique flavor while maintaining the integrity of the dish.
- Herb Alternatives: If parsley and cilantro aren’t your favorites or you want to try something new, consider using mint or basil. They can bring a refreshing twist to your kofta.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated zucchini or carrots into the meat mixture for extra nutrition and moisture. You might need to adjust the breadcrumbs slightly to maintain the right texture.
- Spice it Up: Add chopped green chilies or a bit of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a kick of heat. Just a small amount can significantly elevate the flavor profile.
- Creamy Sauce Varieties: Instead of the garlic yogurt sauce, experiment with tahini sauce or a spicy harissa-based sauce for a different flavor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
What is Chicken Kofta?
Chicken Kofta is a Middle Eastern dish made of spiced ground chicken that is shaped into patties or logs and typically cooked on skewers or in a skillet until browned and fully cooked. It’s packed with flavor thanks to the combination of fresh herbs and spices.
How do I make Chicken Kofta moist?
To ensure your Chicken Kofta stays moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and cooking them on medium heat so they brown evenly without drying out. Adding breadcrumbs and a beaten egg helps bind the mixture while keeping it tender.
Can I make Chicken Kofta in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. You can also shape them into patties and store them in the fridge or freeze them to cook later.
What can I serve with Chicken Kofta?
Chicken Kofta pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or over grains like rice or couscous. The creamy garlic yogurt sauce is a perfect accompaniment that enhances the flavors of the kofta.
Can I freeze Chicken Kofta?
Absolutely! Once cooked, let the kofta cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. They can be reheated in a skillet or oven and are great to have on hand for quick meals.
Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients
For the Chicken Kofta
- 1 lb ground chicken Use fresh ground chicken for best results.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Can substitute with other fresh herbs.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Can substitute with fresh mint.
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Adjust to taste.
- 1 small egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs Adjust for consistency.
- 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt Can use regular yogurt if preferred.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice Freshly squeezed is best.
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped Can substitute with other herbs.
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation of Chicken Kofta
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the beaten egg and breadcrumbs into the chicken mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Shape the chicken mixture into small oval patties or logs.
Cooking the Chicken Kofta
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the kofta in the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing from the skillet.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a separate bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill.
- Stir until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving the Dish
- Drizzle the chicken kofta with the creamy garlic yogurt sauce or serve it on the side.
- Serve alongside warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or rice.
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