Let me tell you, Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is one of those dishes that takes me right back to my childhood! The moment those spiced, juicy koftas hit the skillet, the aroma fills the kitchen, and I can’t help but feel a rush of warmth and nostalgia. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! The combination of ground chicken mixed with fragrant spices like cumin and coriander creates this incredible flavor profile that’s just irresistible. And don’t even get me started on the creamy garlic yogurt sauce—it’s the perfect cool contrast to the warm, savory kofta. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Middle Eastern flavors that brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to whip up your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt. Make sure your ground chicken is fresh, and don’t skimp on the spices—they’re what make this dish sing!
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for yogurt)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Tip: If you want to add a little extra zing, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking! Enjoy the process of bringing these ingredients together for a delicious meal.
How to Prepare Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious Chicken Koftas! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by tossing the ground chicken into a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Get your hands in there (don’t be shy!) and mix everything until well combined. You want that flavor to meld together beautifully, so take your time with this step!
Step 2: Shape the Kofta
Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape the kofta. Grab a handful of the mixture and form it into small oblong shapes—think little sausages! Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly. If you find the mixture sticking to your hands, just wet them a little with some water—it makes shaping much easier!
Step 3: Cook the Kofta
Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, gently place your shaped kofta in the skillet. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re browned and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The aroma will be incredible, so enjoy it!
Step 4: Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce
While the kofta is cooking, let’s whip up that creamy garlic yogurt sauce! In a separate bowl, combine the plain yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. This sauce is going to be the perfect cool complement to your warm kofta.
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Now comes the best part—serving! Place your warm kofta on a plate and drizzle that luscious garlic yogurt sauce over the top. You can also serve it on the side for dipping. Pair it with warm pita bread or a side of fluffy rice for a complete meal. Trust me, everyone at the table will be reaching for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’re going to adore making and sharing this dish:
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of spices like cumin and coriander creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Quick to Prepare: In just about 27 minutes, you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy Ingredients: With lean ground chicken and fresh herbs, this dish is packed with protein and nutrients.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve it with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad, it adapts to any craving.
- Kid-Friendly: The flavors are mild and delicious, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike—everyone will be asking for more!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance, saving you time when you’re ready to cook.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can make your kofta tough. Just mix until everything is well combined.
- Uniform Size: Try to shape your kofta into uniform sizes for even cooking. If they’re all different sizes, some might be overcooked while others are undercooked.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C). It’s the safest way to know they’re cooked through without drying them out.
- Flavor Boost: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne or a dash of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly!
- Resting Time: Let your kofta rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious dish! Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Variations on Chicken Kofta
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt! Here are a few creative variations that can add a little twist to this already fantastic dish:
- Spicy Kick: Want to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the kofta mixture. It’ll bring a zesty punch that spice lovers will adore!
- Herb Infusion: Mix in different herbs like mint or cilantro for a fresh twist. These herbs can brighten the flavor and give your kofta a unique flair.
- Veggie Boost: Sneak in some finely grated zucchini or carrots into the chicken mixture. This not only adds moisture but also boosts the nutrition without compromising flavor!
- Middle Eastern Fusion: Try adding some ground sumac or za’atar spice to the mix for a true Middle Eastern touch. These spices bring a lovely tang and aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible.
- Cheesy Delight: For a rich twist, incorporate some crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella into the kofta before shaping. The gooey cheese will melt beautifully as they cook, creating a delicious surprise!
- Grilled Goodness: Instead of pan-frying, shape your kofta onto skewers and grill them! This method will give you that lovely smoky flavor, and they’ll be perfect for summer barbecues.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on your preferences! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Nutritional Information
It’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use in this recipe. While I strive to provide accurate estimates, your results might differ slightly. Here’s a rough idea of what you can expect per serving of Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
For the most accurate information, I recommend using a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious flavors of this wholesome dish!
FAQ About Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a substitute. Just keep in mind that it may have a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious!
What can I serve with Chicken Kofta?
You can pair these tasty koftas with warm pita bread, fluffy rice, or even a fresh salad. The creamy garlic yogurt is a perfect dip, so don’t forget that!
Can I make the kofta mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This way, the flavors can meld together even more!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure your yogurt doesn’t contain any added thickeners that may have gluten.
How do I know when the kofta is cooked through?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, simply cut into a kofta, and ensure there’s no pink inside.
Can I grill the kofta instead of pan-frying?
Definitely! Shaping the kofta onto skewers and grilling them adds a lovely smoky flavor. Just make sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
What if I want to make these koftas spicier?
If you’re looking for a bit of heat, try adding cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture. Adjust according to your spice preference!
Can I freeze the kofta?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked kofta for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking. It’s a great option for meal prep!
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt: 5 Irresistible Tips
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-fry
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt is a flavorful dish made from ground chicken, spices, and served with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for yogurt)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Mix well and form into small oblong shapes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add kofta to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice for the sauce.
- Serve kofta warm with garlic yogurt on the side.
Notes
- Adjust spices according to your taste.
- Serve with pita bread or rice.
- Can be grilled for a smoky flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kofta with yogurt
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Kofta, Garlic Yogurt, Middle Eastern, Ground Chicken