This Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta is a delicious dish that’s both juicy and tender. The chicken meatballs are mixed with spices and then cooked to perfection, surrounded by a rich garlic yogurt sauce.
What I love most is how easy it is to whip up! Serve it over rice or with warm pita bread, and trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again. It’s a real crowd-pleaser! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the kofta. Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be used if chicken isn’t available. I prefer chicken for its lightness, but any ground meat will work.
Onion: Fresh onion is best for flavor. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder can substitute, but it won’t add the same texture.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley for its freshness, but cilantro works wonderfully too, especially if you like its distinct taste. Dried herbs can be used but will be less vibrant.
Greek Yogurt: The creamy base of the sauce! If you need a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a vegan alternative. Both will still provide creaminess.
Spices: Feel free to adjust spices to your preference! If you like it spicy, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Kofta?
Cooking kofta might seem tricky, but it’s simple when you follow these steps:
- Use medium heat: This helps cook the kofta evenly without burning the outside.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook them in batches if necessary. This ensures proper browning.
- Check for doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cut one open to check if it’s cooked inside.
By paying attention to these details, your kofta will be juicy and flavorful every time!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Kofta:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for binding)
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 tbsp water or chicken broth (to thin the sauce, optional)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
Overall, this recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You will spend about 15 minutes preparing and mixing the ingredients, and another 15 minutes cooking the koftas and making the sauce. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs if you’re using them. Mix everything together until fully combined. You want it to be a sticky and cohesive mixture.
2. Shape the Koftas:
Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into small meatballs, about the size of an egg. Place them on a plate as you go. This should make about 12-16 koftas, depending on size.
3. Cook the Koftas:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the koftas, cooking them for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they are browned on all sides and cooked through. When done, remove the koftas from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add a little more oil if needed. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Combine and Adjust the Sauce:
Stir in the Greek yogurt, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir until well blended.
6. Merge the Koftas with Sauce:
Return the cooked koftas back to the skillet. Gently spoon the yogurt sauce over them and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. These koftas pair wonderfully with steamed rice, couscous, or warm flatbreads. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well in this recipe. It may give you a slightly different flavor, but the spices will make it delicious!
How Do I Make the Sauce Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free option, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt. It will still provide creaminess, and you won’t lose flavor!
Can I Freeze the Koftas?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked koftas! Shape them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, you can pan-fry them straight from the freezer; just increase the cooking time a bit.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy garlic yogurt chicken kofta pairs well with rice, couscous, or warm flatbreads. You can also serve it alongside a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
