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If you have a hankering for something packed with flavor yet wonderfully simple, this Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is just the ticket. Tender, spiced chicken meat shaped into succulent ovals and grilled to perfection pairs beautifully with a cool, tangy garlic yogurt sauce that brightens every bite. It’s a dish that feels comforting and fresh all at once, making it a perfect centerpiece for any weeknight dinner or festive occasion. Once you try this recipe, it might just become one of your absolute favorites to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right for this Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is key to nailing that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each component plays its part, whether it’s the aromatic spices, the fresh herbs, or the creamy sauce that rounds everything out.

Ground chicken: Use fresh if possible for the juiciest, most tender kofta texture.
Small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to the mix.
Garlic, minced (for kofta): Infuses the meat with a warm, savory punch.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a burst of freshness and color to the kofta.
Ground cumin: Gives a cozy warmth and slightly earthy note to the flavor.
Ground coriander: Adds a delicate citrusy depth that complements the chicken.
Paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and beautiful rosy hue.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to make every flavor pop.
Olive oil: Keeps the kofta from sticking to the grill and adds a hint of richness.
Plain yogurt (for sauce): Choose a full-fat variety for the creamiest, most flavorful dip.
Garlic, minced (for sauce): Sharpens the sauce with a vibrant garlicky kick.
Fresh lemon juice: Lifts the sauce with bright, tangy freshness.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): A lovely finishing touch for both flavor and presentation.

How to Make Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Kofta Mixture

Begin by combining your ground chicken with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and the trio of spices—cumin, coriander, and paprika. Don’t forget the salt and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until the flavors meld and the mixture feels evenly combined. This step is where the magic happens, infusing the chicken with layers of aromatic goodness.

Step 2: Shape the Kofta

Divide the mixture into even portions, then shape each one into a long, oval kofta. The shape isn’t just for looks—it helps them cook evenly and develop that irresistible charred crust on the grill. Try to keep them uniform in size so everything finishes cooking at the same time.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. To prevent sticking, brush the grates with olive oil. This little step ensures your kofta slides off easily with those perfect grill marks, plus the olive oil adds a subtle richness to the flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Kofta

Place the kofta carefully on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re juicy and fully cooked. The grill’s heat caramelizes the spices and browns the meat just right, locking in all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the kofta cooks, whip up the garlic yogurt sauce by simply stirring together plain yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This sauce is your cool, tangy counterpoint to the warm, spiced meat—trust me, it’s a match made in heaven.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the kofta from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping them wonderfully moist and tender. Then, plate everything with a generous dollop of garlic yogurt sauce, and maybe a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is ideal for garnishing—its bright, herbaceous notes perfectly complement the smoky and spiced kofta. A wedge of lemon on the side also adds a zingy option for those who want a little extra citrus brightness on their plate. These simple garnishes elevate both the appearance and flavor of your dish.

Side Dishes

This Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp salad loaded with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and red onion. These sides provide a wonderful balance, offering starch or crunch to accompany the tender kofta and creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the kofta as part of a mezze platter—arranged alongside olives, roasted peppers, hummus, and tabbouleh. You could also skewer the kofta for a party-friendly presentation or serve them wrapped in warm flatbreads with a drizzle of the garlic yogurt sauce and some pickled veggies for a delicious handheld option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making them great for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked kofta shaped and arranged on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can keep them for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. The garlic yogurt sauce is best made fresh but can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the kofta gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a low oven to avoid drying them out. Serve again with freshly made garlic yogurt sauce or the reserved refrigerated sauce for a quick, satisfying meal.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work similarly in this Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking time as turkey meat tends to dry out faster.

Is it possible to bake the kofta instead of grilling?

Yes, baking them in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, is a convenient alternative. While grilling adds that lovely char, baking still yields juicy, flavorful kofta.

What type of yogurt is best for the garlic sauce?

Choose plain, full-fat yogurt for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Greek yogurt works wonderfully too if you prefer a thicker sauce with more tang.

Can I prepare the kofta mixture in advance?

Definitely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the kofta a few hours before cooking, keeping them covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even more deeply.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?

The recipe is mildly spiced for broad appeal but feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili to the mixture if you like a little heat. Just remember to balance the spices with the cooling yogurt sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a personal favorite that brings together warmth, freshness, and a touch of indulgence in every bite. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve when friends come over. I encourage you to try it soon and discover just how effortlessly delicious homemade kofta can be!

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