Introduction
Do you love flavorful, juicy meatballs with a creamy sauce? If yes, then you’re going to love this Easy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce! Chicken koftas are basically meatballs made with ground chicken and a mix of spices. They’re soft, tasty, and packed with flavor.
This dish comes from Middle Eastern and South Asian cooking styles, but don’t worry—it’s simple enough for anyone to try. Whether you serve it with rice, pita bread, or even a fresh salad, it’s a dish your whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients – Chicken Kofta
Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce. The ingredients are easy to find, and you might already have many of them at home.
For the Chicken Kofta:
- 500g (1 lb) ground chicken
- 1 small onion (grated or finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or coriander)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional for texture)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- A drizzle of olive oil (optional)
- Chopped mint or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step by Step Process – Chicken Kofta
Let’s go step by step. Don’t worry—each part is super simple and fun to do!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- In a large bowl, add the ground chicken.
- Mix in the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and all the spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper).
- Add breadcrumbs if your mixture feels too soft or wet.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 2: Shape the Koftas
- Wet your hands slightly so the meat doesn’t stick.
- Take small portions of the chicken mix and roll them into oval or round shapes like small meatballs.
- Place them on a plate or tray.
Step 3: Cook the Koftas
You can cook them two ways:
Option 1: Pan-Frying
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Add the koftas to the pan in a single layer.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, turning them gently to brown all sides.
- Make sure the inside is fully cooked (not pink).
Option 2: Baking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the koftas on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt with the minced garlic and lemon juice.
- Add a pinch of salt.
- Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust as you like.
- Optional: Drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle with mint or parsley.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Place the warm chicken koftas on a plate.
- Pour the garlic yogurt sauce on top or serve it on the side.
- Enjoy with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290–320 kcal |
| Protein | 25–28g |
| Carbohydrates | 6–8g |
| Sugars | 2–4g |
| Fat | 18–20g |
| Saturated Fat | 3–4g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 400–500mg |
| Calcium (from yogurt) | 100–120mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use ground beef or lamb instead of chicken?
Yes! You can use ground beef, turkey, or lamb instead of chicken. Just keep in mind the flavor and fat content will change a bit. Beef and lamb will be a bit richer.
Q2. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can skip them, or use crushed crackers or oats instead. They just help make the koftas a bit firmer.
Q3. Can I make the koftas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can shape the koftas and keep them in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking. You can also freeze them for later use.
Q4. What should I serve with chicken kofta?
They taste great with:
- Pita bread or naan
- Rice (especially flavored rice like saffron or turmeric rice)
- Fresh salad with cucumbers and tomatoes
- Roasted veggies or hummus
Q5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you skip the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs, yes—it can be gluten-free. Just check your yogurt and spices to make sure.
Final Thoughts
Making Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce at home is a simple and delicious way to try something new. It’s full of warm spices, juicy meat, and creamy yogurt that makes every bite exciting. The best part? It’s easy enough for beginners and quick enough for a weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, you can tweak the spices, swap the meat, or pair it with your favorite sides. It’s flexible, fun, and most importantly—flavorful!
