Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender spiced chicken meatballs with a cool, creamy yogurt dip. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe brings bold spices and fresh garlic together in a delicious and satisfying way.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Step 2: Shape the seasoned chicken mixture into small oval meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches long. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Bake the kofta in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden on the outside.
- Step 4: While the kofta cooks, prepare the garlic yogurt sauce by mixing the plain yogurt with minced garlic and lemon juice in a small bowl. Adjust garlic to taste.
- Step 5: Once the kofta are done, remove from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle with the garlic yogurt sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh mint or parsley to the chicken mixture before shaping.
- Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier sauce.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure your spices and yogurt are gluten-free certified.
- Try pan-frying the kofta instead of baking for a crispier exterior.
Storage
Store leftover kofta and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat kofta gently in a microwave or oven to avoid drying out. The yogurt sauce is best served cold and should not be microwaved.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ground meat for kofta?
Yes, lamb, beef, or turkey can be used as alternatives to ground chicken. Adjust cooking times if needed depending on the meat’s fat content.
How can I make the kofta spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili peppers to the meat mixture for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
PrintCreamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta Recipe
Tender and flavorful Chicken Kofta baked to perfection and served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, making for a delicious and healthy Middle Eastern-inspired dish perfect for any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
For the Chicken Kofta
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Koftas: With clean hands, form the mixture into small oval-shaped patties or meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Ensure they are compact to prevent falling apart during baking.
- Bake the Kofta: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil and arrange the koftas spaced apart. Bake for 18-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: While the koftas are baking, mix the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once koftas are done, drizzle generously with the garlic yogurt sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of grated onion or a little olive oil to the chicken mixture.
- If you prefer, you can grill the koftas instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
- Adjust garlic quantity in the sauce based on your preference for pungency.
- Serve with warm pita bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: Chicken Kofta, Garlic Yogurt Sauce, Middle Eastern Chicken, Baked Kofta, Healthy Chicken Recipe
