This Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta is a tasty Middle Eastern dish that’s easy to whip up! The juicy chicken meatballs are packed with flavor and served in a rich garlic yogurt sauce.
I love how the yogurt makes everything creamy and dreamy! Pair it with rice or warm pita, and you’ll be in food heaven. Get your forks ready for this delicious ride! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: The heart of this recipe is ground chicken, giving the kofta a light texture. If you want a richer flavor, you can substitute it with ground turkey or lamb.
Onion: Using a small onion is essential for flavor, but if you’re out, shallots or even onion powder can work in a pinch. Just adjust the quantity to keep the taste balanced.
Greek Yogurt: It adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use regular plain yogurt. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut yogurt or a non-dairy Greek-style yogurt.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley gives a bright flavor. You can substitute it with cilantro if you prefer that taste, or even use dried herbs if fresh isn’t available—just remember to use less since dried is more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Kofta is Moist and Flavorful?
To keep your kofta tender, don’t overmix the meat! Gently combine all ingredients just until they’re incorporated. Additionally, preheat your skillet well before adding the kofta, which helps to sear the outside and lock in moisture.
- Use wet hands when shaping the kofta to prevent sticking.
- If you’re worried about dryness, adding a tablespoon of grated zucchini or carrot can help retain moisture and add some extra nutrition!
Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Kofta:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For The Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook the kofta. So, in total, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently, just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the kofta tender.
2. Form the Kofta:
Shape the mixture into small oval or round meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You can wet your hands while forming them to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the Kofta:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the kofta meatballs. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are browned and cooked through. Make sure to turn them gently for even cooking. Once cooked, remove the kofta from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. This sauce is where the creamy goodness comes from!
5. Combine and Serve:
Place the cooked kofta on a serving dish and generously spoon the creamy garlic yogurt sauce over the top. Don’t be shy; drench it in that delicious sauce! Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy:
Serve the kofta warm, paired with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad. Dive into this delightful meal and savor the wonderful flavors!
~ This recipe balances the savory spiced chicken kofta with a cooling, garlicky yogurt sauce, creating a creamy and flavorful dish perfect for any meal! Enjoy! ~
FAQ About Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for Kofta?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can substitute it with ground turkey, lamb, or beef for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time if using a different type of meat, as some may require longer to cook through.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. The yogurt sauce may thin out slightly, but you can whisk it again for a creamy consistency!
Can I Make the Kofta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance! Just form the meatballs and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy garlic yogurt chicken kofta pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a fresh salad. You can also add some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
