If you’re craving something that bursts with flavor yet feels light and fresh, the Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish combines tender, spiced ground chicken kofta grilled to perfection, paired with a zesty garlic yogurt sauce that complements every bite beautifully. It’s a simple recipe that brings together a medley of vibrant spices and fresh herbs, making it perfect for any occasion—whether a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Trust me, once you taste these juicy koftas dipped in creamy tangy sauce, this recipe will become one of your favorites to revisit time and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you! Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color, creating a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. These simple staples are essential for pulling together the authentic taste of Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe.
- 1 pound Ground Chicken: The juicy base of the kofta, easily swapped with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped): Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced): Infuses the kofta with warm aroma and depth.
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of green; cilantro works well too.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Provides earthy, nutty undertones that define the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy brightness.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Black Pepper, to taste: Lends gentle heat and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For grilling, helps create a delicious crust and prevents sticking.
- 1 cup Plain Yogurt: The creamy base for the garlic sauce; coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free substitute.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed): Delivers bright acidity to balance richness.
- Pinch of Salt: Elevates the garlic yogurt sauce perfectly.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture
Gather all the ingredients and in a large bowl combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, ground cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring each bite will be evenly seasoned and flavorful. This hands-on step is key to achieving that perfect texture and well-blended taste.
Step 2: Shape the Kofta
Wet your hands lightly with water to prevent sticking and start shaping the mixture into 10 to 12 evenly sized oval-shaped kofta pieces. This shape helps them cook evenly on the grill while offering a satisfying bite that’s just the right size for serving or snacking.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with olive oil to stop the koftas from sticking. Properly preheating the grill creates a wonderful sear and locks in juices, making each kofta irresistibly tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Grill the Kofta
Place the shaped kofta onto the hot grill. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning gently to develop a beautiful golden brown crust. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) to ensure they are safely cooked and delightfully juicy inside.
Step 5: Mix the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the kofta grills, whisk together plain yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. The sauce should be smooth, creamy, and balanced with bright lemony tang and just the right hint of saltiness to elevate each bite.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your perfectly grilled kofta alongside a generous dollop of the garlic yogurt sauce. This classic pairing creates a delightful contrast between smoky, spiced meat and cool, creamy sauce that your taste buds will adore.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top of the kofta for added freshness and a pop of color that makes the dish visually inviting. A light drizzle of olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side can also brighten up the plating beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve your kofta with warm pita bread or a fluffy bed of basmati rice to soak up every bit of the garlic yogurt sauce. A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or lightly grilled vegetables can complement the smoky flavors and make the meal feel complete and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try threading the kofta onto skewers for an easy-to-eat presentation perfect for parties. Alternatively, build a vibrant kofta bowl layered with grains, fresh greens, pickled onions, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a colorful and healthy spin on this classic dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover kofta and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this delicious meal again without extra effort.
Freezing
Place uncooked shaped kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, you can store them for up to 3 months and simply grill directly from frozen when needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cooked kofta gently in a preheated oven or on a grill pan to preserve juiciness and texture. Warm the garlic yogurt sauce separately just to room temperature or chill it—it’s delicious either way!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works wonderfully in this Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe without compromising taste or texture.
How do I prevent the kofta from falling apart on the grill?
Make sure your mixture is well combined and don’t over-handle the meat. Wetting your hands before shaping also helps keep the kofta intact while grilling.
Is there a dairy-free option for the garlic yogurt sauce?
Yes, you can substitute plain yogurt with coconut yogurt or any other plant-based yogurt to keep the sauce creamy and suitable for dairy-free diets.
Can I bake the kofta instead of grilling?
Definitely. Baking at 400°F (200°C) on a lightly greased tray for around 20-25 minutes works well if you don’t have access to a grill.
What else can I add to the garlic yogurt sauce?
Try adding some finely chopped fresh mint, a dash of smoked paprika, or a hint of grated cucumber for a twist on the traditional sauce that enhances the flavor even more.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a wonderful mix of simplicity and bold flavors that’s sure to impress at any table. It’s a reliable go-to when you want something homemade, comforting, and full of character without spending all day in the kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner that everyone asks for again and again.
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Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring spiced ground chicken shaped into tender koftas, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe balances aromatic spices with fresh herbs and a refreshing sauce.
Ingredients
Kofta Mixture
- 1 pound Ground Chicken (Substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley (Can substitute with cilantro)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
For Grilling
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For grilling)
Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup Plain Yogurt (Substitute with coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed)
- Pinch of Salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Shape the Kofta: Wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking, then shape the mixture into 10-12 oval-shaped kofta pieces.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Grill the Kofta: Place the kofta on the prepared grill, cooking for 5-7 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Mix the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the plain yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Plate the grilled kofta alongside a generous serving of the garlic yogurt sauce. Add your favorite side dishes to complete the meal.
Notes
- To prevent kofta from sticking to your hands when shaping, keep your hands wet or lightly oiled.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner kofta option.
- For a dairy-free version of the sauce, use coconut yogurt instead of plain yogurt.
- Ensure the grill is properly heated and oiled to avoid sticking and to achieve a good sear.
- The internal temperature of the kofta should reach 75°C (165°F) to ensure safe consumption.
- Serve with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or a salad for a complete meal.
