Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce 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, tangy sauce. Perfect for grilling, this recipe brings a delicious Middle Eastern flair to your dinner table.

Ingredients
- 500 grams ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Step 2: Form the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas.
- Step 3: Preheat the grill and brush it with olive oil.
- Step 4: Grill the koftas for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt to prepare the garlic yogurt sauce.
- Step 6: Serve the grilled koftas with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the kofta mixture.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lamb for a different taste.
- If you don’t have a grill, cook the koftas in a hot skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic to the yogurt sauce for a stronger garlic flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover koftas and garlic yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the koftas gently in a skillet or microwave before serving. The yogurt sauce is best served chilled and should not be reheated.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the koftas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture and shape the meatballs up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
Is Greek yogurt suitable for the garlic yogurt sauce?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt works well and gives the sauce a creamier, thicker texture. Just adjust the lemon juice and salt to taste.
PrintChicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Delicious and flavorful Chicken Kofta served with a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce, perfect for a light dinner or appetizer. These grilled chicken meatballs are seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, offering a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients
For the Chicken Kofta
- 500 grams ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the grill)
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Koftas: Take portions of the mixture and form them into small oval-shaped meatballs called koftas, ensuring they are compact for even cooking.
- Preheat and Oil the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Koftas: Place the koftas on the grill and cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides and ensure they are cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the plain yogurt with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of salt, stirring well until smooth and combined.
- Serve: Plate the grilled chicken koftas and serve alongside the refreshing garlic yogurt sauce for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Make sure the koftas are cooked fully through; ground chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- You can add additional herbs like mint or cilantro for variation.
- For extra creaminess, you can use Greek yogurt in the sauce.
- If you do not have a grill, koftas can be cooked on a stovetop grill pan or baked in the oven.
Keywords: Chicken Kofta, Grilled Chicken Meatballs, Garlic Yogurt Sauce, Middle Eastern Recipe, Healthy Chicken Recipe

