Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
This delicious Chicken Kofta recipe features spiced ground chicken grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce. Perfectly seasoned with cumin, coriander, and fresh herbs, these koftas offer a flavorful, tender bite ideal for a healthy and satisfying meal. The garlic yogurt sauce adds a cool, tangy complement, making this dish a crowd-pleaser served alongside warm pita, rice, or salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Kofta
- 1 lb (500 g) ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Mix the kofta ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Knead thoroughly using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the kofta: Lightly wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then form the mixture into oval patties or pressed logs about the size of your palm.
- Preheat and oil the grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure a good sear.
- Grill the kofta: Place the shaped koftas onto the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning carefully. Grill them until they are golden brown and an internal meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Prepare the garlic yogurt sauce: While the koftas grill, whisk together plain yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Serve and garnish: Arrange the grilled koftas on a serving platter and drizzle generously with the garlic yogurt sauce. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the kofta mixture if you prefer some heat.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground lamb for a richer, more traditional flavor.
- Ensure the grill or grill pan is hot before placing the kofta to get a nice sear and prevent sticking.
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor; dried parsley will not provide the same brightness.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Keywords: Chicken kofta, grilled kofta, garlic yogurt sauce, Middle Eastern chicken recipe, healthy grilled chicken, spiced chicken patties
