Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a quick, protein-packed dinner inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. Made with ground chicken, fresh parsley, warm spices, and grilled to perfection, these koftas are tender, juicy, and full of bold flavor. Paired with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and works beautifully for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.
If you’re searching for an easy chicken kofta recipe that’s flavorful yet simple, this version delivers.
Why This Chicken Kofta Recipe Works
• Quick 30-minute meal
• High-protein dinner option
• Simple pantry spices
• Great for grilling or stovetop
• Perfect for meal prep
Ground chicken keeps the kofta lighter while still juicy when properly seasoned and grilled.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Kofta
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 500 grams | Lean protein |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium | Moisture & flavor |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Aromatic depth |
| Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup | Freshness |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | Warm spice |
| Ground coriander | 1 tsp | Citrus note |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Mild heat |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Grilling & moisture |
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Plain yogurt | 1 cup | Creamy base |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Bright acidity |
| Salt | Pinch | Balance |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Kofta
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly but avoid overworking the meat.
Step 2: Shape the Koftas
Form the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas or shape around skewers if desired.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Grill
Preheat grill to medium heat. Brush grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Koftas
Place koftas on grill and cook 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce
In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm koftas with garlic yogurt sauce on the side. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
• With basmati rice
• Wrapped in warm pita bread
• Served over chopped salad
• With roasted vegetables
• In a Mediterranean bowl
Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerate cooked koftas up to 4 days. Store sauce separately. Freeze cooked koftas up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in skillet or oven.
Helpful Tips
Finely chop onions to avoid excess moisture. Chill mixture 15 minutes before shaping if too soft. Avoid high heat to prevent drying.
Why Chicken Kofta Is So Popular
Kofta recipes appear across Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. The combination of ground meat, herbs, and spices makes them flavorful yet approachable for home cooks.
Print
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Easy Juicy Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce made with ground chicken, herbs, and warm spices. A quick Middle Eastern-inspired dinner.
Ingredients
500 grams ground chicken
1 medium onion finely chopped
3 garlic cloves minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices.
2. Shape into oval koftas.
3. Preheat grill and brush with olive oil.
4. Grill 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
5. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, and salt for sauce.
6. Serve warm with yogurt sauce.
Notes
Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Can bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
Store up to 4 days refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Conclusion
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is an easy, juicy, and versatile dinner that brings bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors to your table. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this high-protein recipe is perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining.
PrintChicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Easy Juicy Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce made with ground chicken, herbs, and warm spices. A quick Middle Eastern-inspired dinner.
Ingredients
500 grams ground chicken
1 medium onion finely chopped
3 garlic cloves minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices.
2. Shape into oval koftas.
3. Preheat grill and brush with olive oil.
4. Grill 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
5. Mix yogurt, lemon juice, and salt for sauce.
6. Serve warm with yogurt sauce.
Notes
Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Can bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
Store up to 4 days refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bake chicken kofta instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes.
2. Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, turkey works well as a substitute.
3. How do I keep kofta from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and don’t overmix.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written it is naturally gluten-free.