Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Delight

Name: Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 500 g ground chicken; 1 small onion, grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 cloves garlic, minced (for yogurt sauce); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; to taste salt (for yogurt sauce)

November 26, 2025October 20, 2025 by Emily

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Juicy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Delight. You’ll create tender, flavorful kofta that’s simple to make. The creamy garlic yogurt sauce adds the perfect touch. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy meal, this dish has you covered. Follow along as I guide you through each easy step to your next favorite meal!

Why I Love This Recipe

Flavorful Blend: The combination of spices like cumin and coriander infuses the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors that are simply irresistible.
Juicy Texture: Ground chicken provides a tender and juicy texture, making each bite of kofta incredibly satisfying and moist.
Versatile Serving: These koftas can be served with various sides, from salads to pita bread, making them perfect for any occasion.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe allows anyone to create a delicious meal without hassle.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Chicken Kofta

– 500g ground chicken

– 1 small onion, grated

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon ground coriander

– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

To make juicy chicken kofta, you need ground chicken. I find that 500 grams works best. The grated onion adds moisture and flavor. Garlic gives it a nice kick. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add brightness. Ground cumin and coriander bring warmth. Smoked paprika adds depth, while black pepper and salt enhance all the flavors.

Ingredients for Garlic Yogurt Sauce

– 1 cup plain yogurt

– 2 cloves garlic, minced (for yogurt sauce)

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– Salt to taste (for yogurt sauce)

For the garlic yogurt sauce, plain yogurt is key. It provides a creamy base. The minced garlic adds a punch. Lemon juice brightens the sauce. A pinch of salt ties it all together.

Optional Garnishes and Accompaniments

– Extra chopped herbs for garnish

– Lemon wedges for serving

– Fresh salad greens or roasted vegetables

For serving, I love to sprinkle extra herbs on top. Lemon wedges add a nice zest. Fresh salad greens or roasted veggies make a great side dish. They add color and crunch to your plate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Kofta Mixture

To start, grab a big bowl. You’ll mix the following:

– 500g ground chicken

– 1 small onion, grated

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon ground coriander

– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– 1 teaspoon salt

Use your hands to mix everything. Make sure to blend well but don’t overwork the meat. You want a nice, even texture. This is key for juicy kofta.

Shaping the Kofta

Now, moisten your hands with water. This will help the mixture not stick. Take a small portion of the chicken mix and shape it into a log. Each kofta should be about 5 centimeters long. Lay them out on a plate. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps them keep their shape.

Cooking the Kofta

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. When the oil is hot, carefully place the kofta in batches. Don’t crowd the pan; this ensures even cooking. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and check that they reach an internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F.

Once cooked, transfer the kofta to a serving plate. If you like, sprinkle some extra herbs on top. This adds color and flavor. Enjoy your juicy chicken kofta with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side!

Tips & Tricks

How to Prevent Sticking When Shaping Kofta

To keep your hands clean while shaping kofta, moisten them with water. This simple trick helps the chicken mixture glide easily, preventing it from sticking. You can also oil your hands lightly for an extra layer of protection. Shape the mixture into small logs about 5 centimeters long. The moisture will help you make perfect kofta every time.

Ideal Cooking Temperature for Juicy Kofta

Cook the kofta at medium heat. This temperature helps the kofta cook evenly and stay juicy. Aim for an internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. When cooked right, the kofta will be golden brown outside and tender inside.

Enhancing Flavor in Garlic Yogurt Sauce

For a tasty garlic yogurt sauce, use fresh garlic and a good quality yogurt. Mix in a bit of lemon juice for brightness. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors too. Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving. This waiting time allows the garlic to infuse its flavor fully. You can even add a sprinkle of herbs for extra zing!

Pro Tips

Keep it Moist: Adding grated onion not only enhances the flavor but also contributes moisture to the kofta, keeping them juicy during cooking.
Chill for Better Shape: Refrigerating the shaped kofta for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape better while cooking, preventing them from falling apart.
Batch Cooking: Cook the kofta in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring even cooking and a nice golden-brown crust on each piece.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the kofta mixture for an extra kick of heat and flavor.

Variations

Alternative Proteins for Kofta

You can use other meats for kofta. Ground lamb is a popular choice. It adds rich flavor. Turkey also works well and is leaner. If you prefer beef, try ground beef for a different taste. Each meat gives a unique twist to your dish.

Different Seasoning Options

Experiment with various spices to change the flavor. Try adding cinnamon for warmth. You can also use allspice for a fragrant touch. If you like heat, red pepper flakes add a nice kick. Don’t be afraid to mix and match spices for fun flavors.

Vegan or Vegetarian Adaptations

You can easily make kofta vegan or vegetarian. Use lentils or chickpeas as the base. Mash them together with herbs and spices. Zucchini or eggplant can also be great choices. Just make sure to bind them with flour or breadcrumbs. This way, your kofta will hold their shape while cooking.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Kofta

To keep leftover kofta fresh, first let it cool down. Place the kofta in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm.

Freezing Instructions for Kofta

To freeze kofta, shape it as directed in the recipe. Lay the shaped kofta on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour until firm. Transfer the frozen kofta to a freezer bag. Keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Storing Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Store the garlic yogurt sauce in a sealed container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about four days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. However, the texture may change slightly when thawed. To enjoy its best flavor, use it within a week.

FAQs

What is the best way to serve chicken kofta?

Serve chicken kofta hot. Place them on a plate with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side. You can also add fresh herbs for color. A salad or roasted veggies make a good base too.

Can I make kofta in advance?

Yes, you can prepare kofta ahead of time. Shape the kofta and store them in the fridge. They can sit for up to a day before cooking. This helps the flavors blend well.

What can I substitute for yogurt in the sauce?

If you need a yogurt substitute, use sour cream or a dairy-free option like cashew cream. Both will give you a creamy texture. Add some lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor.

How do I know when the kofta is fully cooked?

Check the internal temperature of the kofta. It should reach 75°C or 165°F. The outside should be golden brown, and the inside must be cooked through to ensure safety.

What side dishes pair well with chicken kofta?

Chicken kofta pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or grilled corn also make tasty options.

In this blog post, we covered how to make delicious chicken kofta. We explored the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to achieve the best results. I also shared variations for personal tastes and how to store leftovers.

Chicken kofta is fun to make and taste great. Experiment with different flavors and share them with friends. Enjoy your cooking journe

$- 500g ground chicken - 1 small onion, grated - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt - 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking) To make juicy chicken kofta, you need ground chicken. I find that 500 grams works best. The grated onion adds moisture and flavor. Garlic gives it a nice kick. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add brightness. Ground cumin and coriander bring warmth. Smoked paprika adds depth, while black pepper and salt enhance all the flavors. - 1 cup plain yogurt - 2 cloves garlic, minced (for yogurt sauce) - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Salt to taste (for yogurt sauce) For the garlic yogurt sauce, plain yogurt is key. It provides a creamy base. The minced garlic adds a punch. Lemon juice brightens the sauce. A pinch of salt ties it all together. - Extra chopped herbs for garnish - Lemon wedges for serving - Fresh salad greens or roasted vegetables For serving, I love to sprinkle extra herbs on top. Lemon wedges add a nice zest. Fresh salad greens or roasted veggies make a great side dish. They add color and crunch to your plate. {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, grab a big bowl. You’ll mix the following: - 500g ground chicken - 1 small onion, grated - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika - ½ teaspoon black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt Use your hands to mix everything. Make sure to blend well but don’t overwork the meat. You want a nice, even texture. This is key for juicy kofta. Now, moisten your hands with water. This will help the mixture not stick. Take a small portion of the chicken mix and shape it into a log. Each kofta should be about 5 centimeters long. Lay them out on a plate. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps them keep their shape. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. When the oil is hot, carefully place the kofta in batches. Don’t crowd the pan; this ensures even cooking. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and check that they reach an internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the kofta to a serving plate. If you like, sprinkle some extra herbs on top. This adds color and flavor. Enjoy your juicy chicken kofta with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side! To keep your hands clean while shaping kofta, moisten them with water. This simple trick helps the chicken mixture glide easily, preventing it from sticking. You can also oil your hands lightly for an extra layer of protection. Shape the mixture into small logs about 5 centimeters long. The moisture will help you make perfect kofta every time. Cook the kofta at medium heat. This temperature helps the kofta cook evenly and stay juicy. Aim for an internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. When cooked right, the kofta will be golden brown outside and tender inside. For a tasty garlic yogurt sauce, use fresh garlic and a good quality yogurt. Mix in a bit of lemon juice for brightness. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors too. Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving. This waiting time allows the garlic to infuse its flavor fully. You can even add a sprinkle of herbs for extra zing! Pro Tips Keep it Moist: Adding grated onion not only enhances the flavor but also contributes moisture to the kofta, keeping them juicy during cooking. Chill for Better Shape: Refrigerating the shaped kofta for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape better while cooking, preventing them from falling apart. Batch Cooking: Cook the kofta in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring even cooking and a nice golden-brown crust on each piece. Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the kofta mixture for an extra kick of heat and flavor. {{image_4}} You can use other meats for kofta. Ground lamb is a popular choice. It adds rich flavor. Turkey also works well and is leaner. If you prefer beef, try ground beef for a different taste. Each meat gives a unique twist to your dish. Experiment with various spices to change the flavor. Try adding cinnamon for warmth. You can also use allspice for a fragrant touch. If you like heat, red pepper flakes add a nice kick. Don’t be afraid to mix and match spices for fun flavors. You can easily make kofta vegan or vegetarian. Use lentils or chickpeas as the base. Mash them together with herbs and spices. Zucchini or eggplant can also be great choices. Just make sure to bind them with flour or breadcrumbs. This way, your kofta will hold their shape while cooking. To keep leftover kofta fresh, first let it cool down. Place the kofta in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm. To freeze kofta, shape it as directed in the recipe. Lay the shaped kofta on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour until firm. Transfer the frozen kofta to a freezer bag. Keep it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking. Store the garlic yogurt sauce in a sealed container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about four days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. However, the texture may change slightly when thawed. To enjoy its best flavor, use it within a week. Serve chicken kofta hot. Place them on a plate with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side. You can also add fresh herbs for color. A salad or roasted veggies make a good base too. Yes, you can prepare kofta ahead of time. Shape the kofta and store them in the fridge. They can sit for up to a day before cooking. This helps the flavors blend well. If you need a yogurt substitute, use sour cream or a dairy-free option like cashew cream. Both will give you a creamy texture. Add some lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Check the internal temperature of the kofta. It should reach 75°C or 165°F. The outside should be golden brown, and the inside must be cooked through to ensure safety. Chicken kofta pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or grilled corn also make tasty options. In this blog post, we covered how to make delicious chicken kofta. We explored the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to achieve the best results. I also shared variations for personal tastes and how to store leftovers. Chicken kofta is fun to make and taste great. Experiment with different flavors and share them with friends. Enjoy your cooking journey!$