Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a delightful dish that takes your taste buds on a flavorful journey. The savory kofta, with hints of garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs, combines beautifully with the creamy, tangy yogurt sauce. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply to indulge yourself on a cozy night in—a dish that always pleases!
Each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, making the experience truly enjoyable. From the fragrant spices to the zesty sauce, everything comes together for a mouthwatering treat. In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare this delicious dish, learn some cooking tips, and find various ways to serve Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor and nutrition.
- It’s easy to prepare and perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- The dish is packed with protein and nutrients.
- Versatile enough to serve with rice, pita, or a salad.
- It looks and tastes impressive without requiring a lot of effort.
You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
(Note that times may vary.)
Ingredients You’ll Need
Begin by selecting the right 500 grams ground chicken. This will form the base of your delectable kofta.
Main Protein
- Ground Chicken
- Ground chicken offers a lean protein option that absorbs flavors beautifully. Use freshly ground if possible.
- To prepare, simply measure out 500 grams and place it in a mixing bowl.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, ground turkey or beef works too.
- Ensure thawed chicken is used for even cooking.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- Onion and Garlic
- These ingredients add depth to your kofta. Finely chop one medium onion and mince three garlic cloves.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, shallots can replace onion for sweeter notes.
- Avoid large chunks as they won’t blend well.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- Ground Cumin and Coriander, Salt, Black Pepper
- These spices enhance the flavor. Use 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Toasting these spices lightly in a pan develops their flavor; be careful not to burn them.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, use garam masala for a spicier profile.
Liquids/Dairy
- Plain Yogurt and Lemon Juice
- Yogurt makes the sauce creamy, while lemon juice adds freshness. Use 1 cup of yogurt and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Be sure to use plain yogurt to avoid added sugars.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use sour cream for a richer taste.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- Olive Oil, Fresh Parsley
- Olive oil is key for cooking. Use 2 tablespoons in the kofta mix or for drizzling.
- Fresh parsley enhances flavor and adds color. Finely chop 1/4 cup.
- If you’re looking for an alternative, cilantro can be used for a different flavor twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This one-pan recipe is not only easy but also fun to make!
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, spices, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
Step 2: Form the Kofta
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small oblong patties or balls. Aim for uniform size for even cooking, about the size of a golf ball.
Step 3: Preheat Your Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering, ensuring a nice sear.
Step 4: Cook the Kofta
Carefully place the kofta in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix yogurt with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Stir in minced garlic to taste, and adjust seasoning as desired. This can be made while the kofta cooks.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the kofta from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with garlic yogurt sauce drizzled over or on the side.
How to Serve
- Arrange kofta on a platter with a generous dollop of garlic yogurt sauce.
- Serve with warm pita or flatbreads to mop up the flavors.
- Offer alongside a fresh salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water for an elevated dining experience.
Enjoy this vibrant dish!
Additional Tips
- Enhance flavor by adding smoked paprika to the kofta mixture.
- Customize by including other herbs like mint or dill.
- Serve with roasted vegetables for a delightful combination.
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the kofta mix.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute ground chicken with mashed chickpeas or lentils.
Freezing and Storage
- Store leftover kofta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- For freezing, wrap kofta individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Special Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving platter
FAQ’s
- Can I use frozen ground chicken? Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before mixing.
- Is this recipe suitable for various diets? Yes, it can be made gluten-free and is high in protein.
- Can I prepare the kofta in advance? Absolutely! You can form them and store them in the fridge a day before cooking.
- How can I customize the flavor? Feel free to experiment with different spices and fresh herbs according to your taste.
- What are alternative cooking methods? You can grill or bake the kofta at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes for a healthier option.
Conclusion
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce combines exciting flavors, healthy ingredients, and beautiful presentation, making it perfect for any occasion. This dish is not only satisfying but also allows for creativity in the kitchen. So gather your ingredients and impress your loved ones with this wonderful recipe!
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 500 grams Ground Chicken Use freshly ground if possible. Ensure thawed chicken is used for even cooking.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 1 medium Onion Finely chopped. Can replace with shallots for sweeter notes.
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced. Avoid large chunks as they won't blend well.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Toasting lightly develops flavor. Be careful not to burn.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Toasting lightly develops flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Liquids/Dairy
- 1 cup Plain Yogurt Use plain yogurt to avoid added sugars.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Key for cooking. Can be drizzled on top.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Finely chopped. Can replace with cilantro for a different flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, spices, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small oblong patties or balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the kofta in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Sauce Preparation
- In a separate bowl, mix yogurt with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Stir in minced garlic to taste, and adjust seasoning as desired.
Serving
- Once cooked, remove the kofta from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with garlic yogurt sauce drizzled over or on the side.
