Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is one of those meals that feels both simple and special at the same time. It has the warmth of a family dinner, the bright freshness of herbs and lemon, and the satisfying comfort of tender, spiced chicken served with a creamy yogurt sauce.

I always think of dishes like this as the kind of food that naturally pulls people toward the table. The aroma of garlic, cumin, coriander, and grilled chicken fills the kitchen in a way that makes dinner feel inviting before the first bite is even served.

This recipe is built around ground chicken, which keeps the kofta tender and light while still giving it enough heartiness to feel like a real meal. The spices bring warmth, the parsley adds freshness, and the garlic yogurt sauce gives every bite a cool, tangy finish.

What I love most is how approachable it is. You do not need complicated techniques, expensive ingredients, or hours of cooking time to make something that feels comforting and memorable.

With only 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is perfect for weeknights, casual weekends, or family gatherings. It is the kind of recipe that proves a handful of simple ingredients can become something truly delicious when they are handled with care.

What Is Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish made with spiced ground chicken shaped into small oval patties and grilled until golden and cooked through. The kofta are served warm with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce that adds brightness, tang, and a cooling contrast to the savory chicken.

The kofta mixture is made with ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients work together to create tender patties that are aromatic without being overwhelming.

The yogurt sauce is simple but important. Plain yogurt and fresh lemon juice create a creamy, tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with the warm spices in the chicken.

This dish works well as a main course because it can be served in several ways. You can enjoy it with warm pita bread, fresh salad, grilled vegetables, lettuce wraps, or even a drizzle of tahini for extra richness.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4 people

This recipe is fast enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough for a gathering. You mix the kofta ingredients, shape them into patties, grill them, stir together the yogurt sauce, and serve everything warm.

The result is tender, savory, slightly smoky chicken kofta with a cool and creamy sauce on the side. It is easy, satisfying, and full of fresh homemade flavor.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

It Comes Together Quickly

This dish is ready in only 35 minutes, which makes it a practical choice for busy nights. The prep is simple, and the cooking time is short.

You can have a flavorful homemade dinner on the table without spending the whole evening in the kitchen. That is one of the reasons this recipe is so easy to return to again and again.

It Uses Simple Ingredients

The ingredient list is straightforward and easy to understand. Ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, yogurt, and lemon juice are the core flavors.

These ingredients are familiar, but together they create something that feels fresh and exciting. The dish tastes layered without requiring a complicated process.

It Is Beginner-Friendly

Even if you have never made kofta before, this recipe is easy to follow. You simply mix, shape, grill, and serve.

The most important tips are to chop the onion finely, avoid overmixing the chicken mixture, and cook the kofta until they reach 165°F. Once you understand those basics, the recipe becomes very approachable.

It Is Great for Gatherings

Chicken kofta are perfect for serving family-style. You can place them on a platter with garlic yogurt sauce, warm pita, salad, and grilled vegetables.

Everyone can build their own plate, which makes the meal feel relaxed and welcoming. It is a wonderful dish for dinners where you want food that encourages sharing.

It Can Be Made Ahead

You can prepare the kofta mixture ahead of time and shape the patties before cooking. This makes dinner easier when you are hosting or trying to get ahead on a busy day.

The shaped kofta can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before grilling. This also gives the flavors more time to blend together beautifully.

It Is Light but Satisfying

Ground chicken keeps the dish lighter than many heavier meat-based meals. At the same time, the spices and yogurt sauce make it feel complete and flavorful.

The result is a meal that satisfies without feeling too heavy. It works especially well with a crisp salad or fresh vegetables on the side.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Kofta

1 lb ground chicken

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil, for grilling

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

1 cup plain yogurt

2 tablespoons lemon juice

Optional pinch of salt, to taste

Ingredient Notes

Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is the main ingredient in this recipe. It has a mild flavor that allows the spices, garlic, onion, and parsley to shine.

Because chicken is lean, it is important not to overmix the kofta mixture. Gentle mixing helps keep the patties tender instead of dense.

Onion

Finely chopped onion adds moisture and flavor to the kofta. It also helps create a softer texture inside each patty.

Make sure the onion is chopped very small. Larger pieces may make the kofta harder to shape and can create uneven texture.

Garlic

Garlic gives the kofta a deep savory aroma. Three minced cloves add plenty of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Fresh garlic works best here because it blends into the chicken mixture and also complements the yogurt sauce beautifully. If you are in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh garlic gives the brightest flavor.

Fresh Parsley

Parsley adds freshness and color to the kofta. It balances the warm spices and keeps the chicken from tasting too heavy.

If you want a different flavor profile, cilantro can be used instead. It gives the dish a slightly brighter and more citrusy note.

Ground Cumin

Cumin adds warmth, earthiness, and depth. It is one of the key spices that gives the kofta its comforting flavor.

A little cumin goes a long way. One teaspoon is enough to flavor the chicken without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Ground Coriander

Ground coriander brings a gentle citrusy note that works beautifully with the cumin. It makes the spice blend taste more rounded and aromatic.

Together, cumin and coriander create a warm, balanced flavor that pairs well with the cool yogurt sauce.

Salt and Black Pepper

Salt and black pepper are simple but essential. They bring the flavors into focus and keep the chicken from tasting flat.

Season according to your preference. If you are unsure, start with a moderate amount and adjust next time based on your taste.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps prevent the kofta from sticking to the grill. It also supports browning and adds a touch of richness.

Brush the grill with olive oil before adding the kofta. This small step makes cooking smoother and helps the patties release more easily.

Plain Yogurt

Plain yogurt forms the creamy base of the sauce. It is cool, tangy, and refreshing, making it the perfect partner for warm grilled kofta.

For a dairy-free version, coconut yogurt or cashew cream can be used. The flavor will change slightly, but the sauce will still provide a creamy contrast.

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice brightens the yogurt sauce. It adds acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken and makes the dish feel fresh.

Use fresh lemon juice when possible. It gives the sauce a cleaner, livelier flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight: Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is the heart of this recipe because it creates a tender, juicy kofta that absorbs spices beautifully. Its mild flavor makes it a perfect canvas for cumin, coriander, garlic, onion, and fresh parsley.

Unlike stronger meats, ground chicken does not compete with the seasonings. Instead, it lets every ingredient come through clearly.

The key to using ground chicken successfully is gentle handling. If you mix it too aggressively, the kofta can become firm or tough after cooking.

For a leaner variation, ground turkey can be used instead. It works very similarly and keeps the dish light while still giving you that satisfying kofta texture.

Directions

Step 1: Gather All Ingredients

Begin by placing all of your ingredients on the counter. This includes the ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, olive oil, yogurt, and lemon juice.

Having everything ready before you start makes the process calm and organized. It also helps you avoid forgetting an ingredient once your hands are busy mixing the kofta.

This recipe moves quickly once you begin. A few minutes of preparation at the start makes the entire cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Finely Chop the Onion

Peel the medium onion and chop it as finely as possible. Small pieces blend into the chicken mixture better and help the kofta hold together.

If the onion pieces are too large, they may create gaps in the patties. They can also make the kofta harder to shape evenly.

A fine chop also helps the onion release flavor throughout the meat. That means every bite tastes balanced instead of having occasional sharp pieces of onion.

Step 3: Mince the Garlic

Peel 3 cloves of garlic and mince them finely. The garlic should be small enough to distribute evenly throughout the chicken mixture.

Fresh minced garlic brings a stronger aroma than garlic powder. It gives the kofta a savory depth that works beautifully with the warm spices.

Set the garlic aside with the onion. Keeping the aromatics ready makes the mixing step quick and simple.

Step 4: Chop the Fresh Parsley

Rinse the parsley and pat it dry. Chop it finely so it blends easily into the kofta mixture.

Parsley brings freshness to the dish. It also adds small green flecks that make the cooked kofta look more vibrant.

If using cilantro instead, chop it the same way. Cilantro gives the kofta a different but equally fresh flavor.

Step 5: Measure the Spices

Measure 1 teaspoon of ground cumin and 1 teaspoon of ground coriander. Keep them nearby for easy mixing.

These spices are the backbone of the kofta’s flavor. Cumin adds warmth, while coriander adds a gentle citrus-like note.

Measure the salt and pepper according to your taste. You can start modestly and adjust in future batches if you prefer stronger seasoning.

Step 6: Combine the Kofta Ingredients

Place 1 lb of ground chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.

Use a spoon or clean hands to bring everything together. The goal is even distribution, not heavy mixing.

Be gentle while mixing. Overworking ground chicken can make the kofta tougher once cooked.

Step 7: Let the Mixture Rest Briefly

After mixing, let the kofta mixture sit for a few minutes. This short rest gives the seasonings a chance to settle into the chicken.

Even a brief pause can help the mixture feel more cohesive. It also makes shaping a little easier.

You do not need a long marinating time for this recipe. The spices and fresh aromatics are strong enough to flavor the chicken quickly.

Step 8: Prepare a Tray for the Kofta

Set a plate or tray near your work area. This will hold the shaped kofta before they go onto the grill.

Lightly dampen your hands with water before shaping. Wet hands help prevent the chicken mixture from sticking too much.

This small detail makes the shaping process much easier. It also helps you form smoother patties.

Step 9: Shape the Kofta

Take a small portion of the chicken mixture and shape it into an oval patty. Aim for pieces about 2 to 3 inches long.

The kofta should be compact enough to hold together but not squeezed too tightly. Gentle shaping helps keep them tender.

Place each shaped kofta on the prepared tray. Make sure they are not touching so they do not stick together.

Step 10: Continue Shaping Until Finished

Repeat the shaping process until all the mixture is used. Try to keep the kofta similar in size for even cooking.

If some are much larger than others, they will take longer to cook. Consistent size helps all of them finish at the same time.

If the mixture becomes sticky, wet your hands again. This keeps the process smooth and prevents tearing.

Step 11: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill before cooking the kofta. A properly heated grill helps prevent sticking and gives the patties a better golden exterior.

Do not place the kofta on a cold grill. They may stick, cook unevenly, or lose their shape.

A hot surface helps seal the outside quickly while keeping the inside juicy. This is important for tender chicken kofta.

Step 12: Oil the Grill

Brush the preheated grill with olive oil. Use about 2 tablespoons as needed to prevent sticking and help with browning.

Be careful when oiling a hot grill. Use proper tools and avoid excess oil dripping into flames.

A lightly oiled surface makes it easier to flip the kofta. It also helps create a more appetizing color.

Step 13: Place the Kofta on the Grill

Carefully place the shaped kofta onto the preheated, oiled grill. Leave a little space between each one.

Spacing helps heat circulate evenly. It also makes flipping easier.

Once the kofta touch the grill, avoid moving them too soon. Let them cook long enough to develop color and release naturally.

Step 14: Grill the First Side

Cook the kofta for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side. They should begin to turn golden brown and firm up.

Do not press them down while they cook. Pressing can squeeze out moisture and make them less juicy.

The aroma of the spices and chicken will become more noticeable as they grill. This is when the dish starts to feel especially inviting.

Step 15: Flip the Kofta

Use tongs or a spatula to gently flip each kofta. If they resist, give them another moment before trying again.

Cook the second side for another 4 to 5 minutes. The kofta should be golden and cooked through.

Handle them gently while flipping. Ground chicken patties can be delicate until fully cooked.

Step 16: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check that the kofta have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

The outside should be golden, and the inside should be tender and juicy. Avoid cooking much longer than needed, because lean chicken can dry out.

Once cooked, transfer the kofta to a clean plate. Let them rest briefly while you finish the sauce.

Step 17: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the kofta are grilling or resting, prepare the sauce. Add 1 cup of plain yogurt to a small bowl.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

If desired, add a small pinch of salt to taste. The sauce should be tangy, cool, and refreshing.

Step 18: Adjust the Sauce

Taste the yogurt sauce before serving. If you want it brighter, add a little more lemon juice.

If you prefer a softer flavor, keep the sauce as written. The simplicity of yogurt and lemon is what makes it pair so well with the kofta.

For a dairy-free sauce, use coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Both options can create a creamy dip with a different flavor profile.

Step 19: Plate the Kofta

Arrange the warm chicken kofta on a serving plate. Place the garlic yogurt sauce in a small bowl on the side.

You can sprinkle extra parsley over the top for color. A squeeze of lemon also adds a fresh finishing touch.

Serve immediately while the kofta are warm. The contrast between hot spiced chicken and cool yogurt sauce is one of the best parts of the dish.

Step 20: Serve and Enjoy

Serve Chicken Kofta with warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. Each option turns the kofta into a complete meal.

You can also serve them with lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option. The crisp lettuce adds freshness and keeps the dish light.

Enjoy each bite with a spoonful of garlic yogurt sauce. The creamy tang brings everything together beautifully.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Kofta

Do Not Overmix the Chicken

Mix the kofta ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make the patties dense and less tender.

Ground chicken is delicate, so gentle handling is important. Think of mixing as folding everything together rather than kneading.

Chop Ingredients Finely

The onion, garlic, and parsley should be finely chopped. This helps them spread evenly through the mixture.

Large pieces can make the kofta harder to shape. Fine chopping gives a smoother texture and better flavor distribution.

Use Wet Hands for Shaping

Wet hands make shaping much easier. The chicken mixture will not stick as much, and the patties will look cleaner.

Keep a small bowl of water nearby while shaping. Re-wet your hands whenever needed.

Preheat and Oil the Grill

A hot, oiled grill helps prevent sticking and gives the kofta a better exterior. Skipping this step can make flipping difficult.

Let the grill heat fully before adding the patties. Good preheating helps the kofta cook evenly.

Use a Meat Thermometer

Chicken should reach 165°F internally. A meat thermometer removes the guesswork.

This is especially helpful because kofta can brown on the outside before the inside is fully done. Checking the temperature gives you confidence.

Variations

Add Fresh Mint or Dill

Chopped mint or dill can be added to the kofta mixture for a more herb-forward flavor. Mint gives a cool freshness, while dill adds a delicate, grassy note.

Use a small amount so the herbs do not overpower the chicken. They should enhance the mixture, not dominate it.

Add Grated Zucchini

Grated zucchini can add moisture and nutrition to the kofta. It also helps keep the patties tender.

If using zucchini, squeeze out excess moisture before adding it. Too much water can make the mixture loose.

Add Smoked Paprika

A pinch of smoked paprika adds a gentle smoky flavor. It works especially well if you want deeper color and a warmer taste.

Start with a small amount. The kofta should still taste like cumin, coriander, garlic, and chicken.

Add Cayenne Pepper

For more heat, add a little cayenne pepper to the mixture. This gives the kofta a spicy kick.

Use caution if serving to children or guests who prefer mild food. You can also serve heat on the side instead.

Bake the Kofta

For a lighter cooking method, bake the kofta in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes. This is a good option if you do not want to grill.

Place them on a lined baking sheet and leave space between each piece. Bake until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Serve With Tahini

A drizzle of tahini adds richness and a nutty flavor contrast. It pairs nicely with the garlic yogurt sauce or can be used as an additional topping.

Use just a light drizzle so the kofta remain the focus. Tahini can be rich, so a little is enough.

Make It Gluten-Free

The kofta itself does not require pita or breadcrumbs in the provided recipe. To keep the meal gluten-free, serve it with lettuce wraps, salad, rice, or grilled vegetables instead of pita.

Always check labels on yogurt and spices if needed. This helps ensure the entire meal fits dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve With Warm Pita Bread

Warm pita is a classic and comforting choice. You can tuck the kofta inside with yogurt sauce and fresh herbs.

This turns the dish into a handheld meal. It is especially nice for casual dinners or gatherings.

Serve With a Fresh Salad

A crisp salad balances the richness of the chicken and yogurt sauce. Fresh vegetables add crunch and brightness.

A simple salad works beautifully. You do not need anything complicated because the kofta already bring plenty of flavor.

Serve With Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables make the meal feel colorful and complete. They also pair naturally with the grilled chicken flavor.

Zucchini, bell peppers, onions, or other vegetables can work well. Serve them alongside the kofta with extra sauce.

Serve With Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps are a fresh, gluten-free option. They keep the meal light while still letting you enjoy the kofta and sauce together.

Use sturdy lettuce leaves that can hold the kofta. Add parsley, lemon, or grilled vegetables for extra flavor.

Add Extra Lemon

A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the whole plate. It works especially well with the yogurt sauce.

Lemon also makes the spices feel more lively. Keep wedges on the side so everyone can add as much as they like.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before sealing the container.

Store the yogurt sauce separately if possible. This keeps the kofta from becoming too soft and makes reheating easier.

When ready to eat, reheat the kofta gently in the oven, on the grill, or in a skillet. Serve with chilled yogurt sauce for the best contrast.

Freezing Tips

Chicken kofta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

You can freeze them in a single layer first so they do not stick together. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag for easier storage.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Warm them gently so they stay juicy.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the kofta mixture in advance and shape the patties up to 24 hours before cooking. Cover them tightly and refrigerate until ready to grill.

Making them ahead can deepen the flavor because the spices have more time to blend with the chicken. It also makes dinner much faster when it is time to cook.

The yogurt sauce can also be stirred together ahead of time. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Kofta

Overmixing can make the kofta tough. Mix only until the ingredients are evenly combined.

The texture should feel cohesive but not overly worked. Gentle mixing is the secret to tender kofta.

Not Chopping Onion Finely Enough

Large onion pieces can make the patties uneven. They may also cause the kofta to fall apart more easily.

A fine chop allows the onion to blend into the mixture. This improves both texture and flavor.

Not Preheating the Grill

A cold grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat before adding the kofta.

Preheating also helps create a better golden surface. That color adds both flavor and appeal.

Skipping the Oil

Brushing the grill with olive oil helps prevent sticking. It also supports browning.

Do not skip this step, especially with ground chicken. Lean meat can stick more easily than fattier mixtures.

Ignoring Internal Temperature

Chicken must be cooked through. Use a meat thermometer and make sure the kofta reach 165°F.

This is the safest and most accurate way to check doneness. It also helps you avoid overcooking.

Skipping Seasoning Adjustments

Salt and pepper matter. Without enough seasoning, the kofta may taste flat.

Taste and adjust based on your preference. Since raw chicken mixture should not be tasted directly, pay attention to aroma and seasoning amounts, then adjust in future batches if needed.

Helpful Notes

For a richer flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the kofta mixture. It gives a subtle depth that pairs well with grilling.

If you do not have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Fresh garlic gives stronger aroma, but garlic powder is convenient.

Chopped bell peppers or spinach can be added for extra nutrition. Keep additions finely chopped so the patties hold together.

For a dairy-free sauce, use plant-based yogurt, coconut yogurt, or cashew cream. Add lemon juice gradually and adjust to taste.

For more heat, add cayenne pepper to the kofta mixture. Start with a small amount and increase only if you enjoy spice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Chicken Kofta Be Frozen?

Yes, Chicken Kofta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the cooked kofta cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill to help maintain their juicy texture.

Can I Substitute the Ground Chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be used instead of ground chicken. It is a leaner option and works well with the same spices and herbs.

The flavor will be slightly different, but the overall dish will still be tender and delicious. Be sure to cook it to the proper internal temperature.

Can I Use Cilantro Instead of Parsley?

Yes, cilantro can replace parsley if you want a different flavor profile. It gives the kofta a brighter and slightly more citrusy taste.

Use the same amount as parsley. Chop it finely so it blends evenly into the chicken mixture.

Can I Make the Sauce Dairy-Free?

Yes, coconut yogurt or cashew cream can be used for a dairy-free sauce. Add the lemon juice and stir until smooth.

The flavor may be slightly different depending on the base you choose. Coconut yogurt may add a mild sweetness, while cashew cream is more neutral.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce in a separate container if possible.

Reheat the kofta gently before serving. Add the yogurt sauce after reheating so it stays cool and creamy.

Can the Recipe Be Made Ahead?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the kofta up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

This makes the recipe great for entertaining. You can do the prep early and cook the kofta fresh just before serving.

Can I Bake the Kofta Instead of Grilling?

Yes, you can bake the kofta at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Make sure they are cooked through and reach 165°F internally.

Baking is a convenient option when grilling is not possible. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

What Should I Serve With Chicken Kofta?

Chicken Kofta pairs beautifully with warm pita, fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or lettuce wraps. You can also serve it with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

The garlic yogurt sauce should be served on the side for dipping. It brings a creamy, tangy finish to every bite.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is the kind of recipe that feels comforting without being heavy. It is simple, aromatic, fresh, and satisfying.

The ground chicken stays tender, the cumin and coriander add warmth, and the parsley and garlic bring freshness and depth. When paired with the cool lemon yogurt sauce, every bite feels balanced and complete.

This dish is easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner but special enough to share with family and friends. It can be served casually with pita or made lighter with lettuce wraps and salad.

Most of all, it is a meal that invites people to gather. A platter of warm kofta, a bowl of creamy sauce, and a few simple sides can turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.

So roll up your sleeves, mix the spices into the chicken, shape the kofta by hand, and let the aroma fill your kitchen. This is simple home cooking with warmth, flavor, and heart in every bite.

---

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dinner made with seasoned ground chicken, fresh herbs, warm spices, and a creamy lemon yogurt sauce. The kofta are grilled until tender and lightly charred, then served warm with the cool garlic yogurt sauce on the side.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Course: Dinner
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Servings: 4 people
• Calories: 350 kcal

Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients

For the Kofta

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  Adds a lightly citrusy, warm spice flavor.
• 1 medium onion
  Finely chopped onion helps it blend evenly into the kofta mixture.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  Used for grilling and helping the kofta cook without sticking.
• 1 lb ground chicken
  Creates the base of the kofta. Ground turkey can be used for a leaner option.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  Adds warmth and classic Middle Eastern-style flavor.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley
  Adds freshness and color. Cilantro can be used for a different flavor profile.
• 3 cloves garlic
  Minced garlic gives the kofta a stronger aroma and savory depth.

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  Fresh lemon juice gives the sauce a bright, tangy flavor.
• 1 cup plain yogurt
  Creates the creamy sauce base. Coconut yogurt or cashew cream can be used for a dairy-free version.

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until the ingredients are evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture.
3. Shape the chicken mixture into small oval patties.
4. Preheat the grill.
5. Brush the grill with olive oil to help prevent sticking.
6. Grill the kofta for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through.
7. To make the garlic yogurt sauce, stir the plain yogurt and lemon juice together in a bowl.
8. Serve the warm chicken kofta with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side.

Notes

• Adjust the cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to match your taste.
• Serve with pita bread, salad, rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Ground turkey can be used instead of ground chicken if you prefer a leaner version.