Oh my goodness, let me tell you about chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce! This dish is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners or even special gatherings. I love how the juicy, flavorful kofta combines perfectly with the creamy, garlicky yogurt sauce—it’s like a flavor explosion in every bite! The spices give it that warm, inviting Middle Eastern flair, while the yogurt sauce cools things down just right. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on the grill, making it a fun and interactive meal. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. You’ll be dreaming about those kofta long after the last bite!
Ingredients for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making mouthwatering chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground chicken: This is the star of the dish—make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and moisture; chop it finely so it blends seamlessly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: You can never have too much garlic! It’s essential for that aromatic kick.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs brighten up the flavors—don’t skip this part!
- 1 tsp ground cumin: This spice gives the kofta a warm, earthy taste.
- 1 tsp ground coriander: It complements the cumin beautifully and adds depth.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: For a touch of smokiness and color.
- 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together, giving structure to the kofta.
- 1 cup plain yogurt: The base for your garlic yogurt sauce; use whole milk for creaminess.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce): More garlic! Trust me, it’s worth it.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: A splash of acidity to brighten the yogurt sauce.
How to Prepare Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Let’s dive into the magic of making chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce! It’s simpler than you might think, and I promise you’ll love the process. First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this is crucial for getting that perfect char on your kofta.
Next, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix it all together until just combined; I like to use my hands for this—it’s way more fun! Once everything is well integrated, form the mixture into small oval shapes, about the size of your palm.
Now, it’s time to grill! Place those kofta on the grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to get an even golden-brown color. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and have a lovely charred exterior.
While the kofta are grilling, whip up your garlic yogurt sauce by mixing the plain yogurt with minced garlic and lemon juice in a separate bowl. Give it a good stir, and voilà—you’re ready to serve! Just plate those juicy kofta hot, with the creamy sauce on the side, and watch everyone dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- Quick Preparation: You can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean ground chicken and fresh herbs, this dish is packed with flavor while being lower in fat.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices creates a deliciously aromatic experience that’ll leave your taste buds dancing.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with pita, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone will rave about these tasty kofta!
Tips for Success with Chicken Kofta
To make the best chicken kofta, here are some tips that I’ve learned from my kitchen adventures! First, don’t skip the breadcrumbs; they help bind the mixture, giving your kofta that perfect texture. If you want to add a little zing, consider adjusting the spices—feel free to up the cumin or coriander for a bolder flavor!
When grilling, keep an eye on the heat. If it’s too high, the outside may char before the inside cooks through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—160°F (70°C) is your target. And remember, letting the kofta rest for a few minutes after grilling helps keep them juicy. Trust me, these small touches make all the difference!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
When it comes to enjoying chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce, it’s nice to know the nutrition behind this delicious dish! Each serving, which includes one kofta with sauce, contains approximately 250 calories. You’ll also get about 20 grams of protein—perfect for a filling meal!
In terms of fat, it has around 10 grams, with only 2 grams being saturated fat. Plus, it’s relatively low in sugar, with just 2 grams. The dish provides about 20 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber, making it a balanced option for your dining table. Just remember, these values are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your ingredients!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Now that you’ve got your delicious chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce ready to go, let’s talk about some fabulous serving suggestions! I absolutely love pairing these kofta with warm, fluffy pita bread. It’s perfect for scooping up that creamy yogurt sauce! You could also serve them over a bed of fragrant rice or couscous, which adds a lovely texture and absorbs all the flavors.
If you’re looking for a fresh twist, a simple salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil is fantastic alongside. And don’t forget some pickled vegetables—they bring a delightful crunch and tang. These combinations not only enhance the dish but also create a vibrant, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!
FAQ About Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Got questions about making chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce? I’ve got you covered! One common question is, “Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?” Absolutely! It works just as well, and you’ll still get that delicious flavor. Another popular inquiry is, “What if I don’t have a grill?” No worries! You can cook these kofta in a skillet or under the broiler—just keep an eye on them to ensure they cook evenly.
Some folks wonder, “Can I make the kofta ahead of time?” Yes! You can form the kofta and refrigerate them for a few hours before grilling. And lastly, “What should I serve with the garlic yogurt sauce?” It’s great with pita, but don’t hesitate to drizzle it over salads or grilled veggies! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Chicken Kofta
Leftover chicken kofta with garlic yogurt sauce can be a lifesaver for quick meals later on! To store, let the kofta cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just make sure to store the yogurt sauce separately to maintain its creamy texture.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. You can warm the kofta in a skillet over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, popping them in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes works too, but be careful not to overheat! Serve with fresh yogurt sauce for a tasty meal that feels like it’s just been made!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear about your adventures with chicken kofta and garlic yogurt sauce! Did you try any fun variations or serving suggestions? Please share your experiences in the comments below. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t hesitate to pass it along to friends or family. Cooking is always better when we can share the love and deliciousness with others! Happy cooking!
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Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce: 5 Flavorful Secrets
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Chicken kofta served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs.
- Form the mixture into small oval shapes.
- Grill the kofta for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
- In another bowl, mix yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice to make the sauce.
- Serve kofta hot with garlic yogurt sauce on the side.
Notes
- Adjust spices to taste.
- Serve with pita or rice.
- Store leftover kofta in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kofta with sauce
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chicken kofta, garlic yogurt sauce, grilled chicken