Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

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Juicy, golden-brown chicken koftas served over a tangy garlic yogurt sauce—this is the kind of comforting dish I come back to over and over again. It’s deeply satisfying, yet light enough to enjoy without feeling weighed down. Every time I make this recipe, the smell alone draws everyone to the kitchen, eagerly waiting to grab one straight from the pan.

What I love most about this dish is its balance: herby, tender chicken paired with a refreshing, slightly tangy sauce. It’s a recipe that feels special but is simple enough to make on a weeknight. Whether you serve it with flatbread, rice, or just a crisp salad, these koftas shine in any setting.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

This dish hits all the right notes. The koftas are moist, flavorful, and perfectly seared on the outside. The garlic yogurt sauce brings a cool, creamy contrast that elevates the whole meal. It’s also flexible—you can prepare it ahead, adjust the seasoning to your liking, or even grill the koftas instead of pan-frying. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, it delivers every time.

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What Kind of Ground Chicken Should I Use?

For the juiciest, most flavorful koftas, I prefer using ground chicken thigh meat. It has a higher fat content than breast meat, which helps keep the koftas moist and tender. If you’re using lean ground chicken breast, just be sure not to overcook them, and consider adding a bit of olive oil or grated onion to retain moisture.

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Options for Substitutions

• Meat: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey, lamb, or beef.
• Herbs: Parsley is traditional, but mint or cilantro add a fresh twist.
• Yogurt Sauce: Use plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option, and skip the garlic if you want a milder flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for a warm, Middle Eastern flair.
• Binder: Instead of breadcrumbs, use almond flour or cooked quinoa to keep it gluten-free.

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Ingredients for this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

• Ground Chicken – The heart of the recipe, this is where all the flavor starts. Choose ground thigh meat for juiciness.
• Onion – Finely grated for moisture and natural sweetness.
• Garlic – Adds depth and a savory kick to both the kofta mix and the yogurt sauce.
• Fresh Parsley – Offers a burst of freshness and color, balancing the richness of the meat.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the koftas while giving them a tender, juicy texture.
• Egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper) – Layers of earthy warmth and subtle heat.
• Greek Yogurt – The creamy base for the sauce that cools and complements the spiced koftas.
• Olive Oil – For pan-frying the koftas to get that golden-brown crust.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the yogurt sauce and enhances the overall flavor.

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Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, and all the spices. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until everything is well incorporated, but avoid over-mixing to keep the koftas tender.

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Step 2: Shape the Koftas

With damp hands, form the mixture into oval or cylindrical patties—about the size of a golf ball, then gently flatten them. You should get around 12 to 14 pieces, depending on size.

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Step 3: Cook the Koftas

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the koftas in batches, turning them gently to brown all sides. This should take about 3–4 minutes per side. Once they are deeply golden and fully cooked inside, remove and set aside on a plate.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with grated or minced garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and a bit of chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste. Let it sit while the koftas cook, allowing the flavors to meld.

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Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Spread the garlic yogurt sauce onto a serving plate or shallow bowl. Arrange the hot koftas on top, then finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately while warm.

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How Long to Prepare the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

Prep Time

Preparing the mixture and shaping the koftas takes about 20 minutes. If you’re grating the onion and chopping herbs fresh, give yourself a little extra time. You can also prepare the yogurt sauce during this step to save time later.

Cook Time

Cooking the koftas in batches takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on your pan size and heat level. Each batch takes about 6–8 minutes total. You can keep cooked koftas warm in the oven while finishing the rest.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

• Use Ground Thigh Meat: It’s naturally juicier and more flavorful than chicken breast.
• Grate, Don’t Chop, the Onion: Grated onion blends seamlessly and adds moisture.
• Don’t Overwork the Mixture: Mixing too aggressively can make the koftas tough.
• Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan so each kofta gets a good sear.
• Let the Yogurt Sit: Give the garlic yogurt at least 10 minutes to rest for the flavors to develop.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Undercooking: Always check that the center is cooked through—internal temp should be at least 165°F (74°C).
• Overcooking: Too much time in the pan can dry them out, especially with lean meat.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the mixture sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld.
• Not Draining the Onion: Excess moisture can make the mixture loose and hard to shape.
• Using Too Much Breadcrumb: It can make the koftas dense or dry.

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What to Serve With Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt?

1. Warm Pita or Flatbread

Perfect for scooping up both the kofta and that luscious garlic yogurt sauce.

2. Lemon Herb Rice

A fluffy, citrusy side that balances the richness of the koftas.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Caramelized carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the dish beautifully.

4. Cucumber-Tomato Salad

A crisp and refreshing salad cuts through the savory koftas and adds a light touch.

5. Hummus or Baba Ghanoush

For a more Middle Eastern spread, serve with dips for extra layers of flavor.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Leftover koftas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store the garlic yogurt sauce separately to prevent it from becoming watery.

Freezing

The cooked koftas freeze well. Let them cool, then place them on a tray to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the koftas in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery. Serve with freshly made yogurt sauce for best flavor.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, approx. 3 koftas + sauce)

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to shape the koftas?

Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking, then shape them into oval or log shapes for even cooking.

Can I bake the koftas instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default due to breadcrumbs, but you can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. Prepare and shape the koftas ahead, and store them covered in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.

What if I don’t eat garlic?

Simply omit the garlic from the yogurt sauce or replace it with a pinch of ground cumin or fresh dill for a different flavor profile.

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Conclusion

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is the kind of dish that checks every box—comforting, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent. It’s easy to adapt, quick to cook, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it up as a weeknight meal or showcasing it at a dinner party, it’s guaranteed to make an impression. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite go-to recipe.

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