Name: Grilled Chicken Koftas with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
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; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; Pinch of salt

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There is something truly irresistible about the warm, spiced aroma and juicy texture of Grilled Chicken Koftas paired with a cool, tangy hit of Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce. This Grilled Chicken Koftas with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and simple ingredients harmonizing perfectly together, making it a perfect dish whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at a weekend barbecue. Each bite is a delightful dance of smoky, savory koftas complemented by the luscious, garlicky yogurt sauce that feels both fresh and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of various fresh ingredients laid out on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture background. There are two white bowls, one filled with cooked ground meat mixed with diced green parts and red seasoning pieces, and another filled with chopped fresh green herbs. Nearby, a whole bright yellow lemon, a garlic bulb with two individual cloves, and a small onion with its skin are placed. Below are a small white bowl of white creamy yogurt, a bunch of fresh parsley with deep green leaves, and a small wooden bowl full of a greenish spice blend. On the lower row, three small white bowls hold olive oil with herbs, clear golden liquid, and coarse white salt. An additional small onion is placed near the bowls, all neatly arranged. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Grilled Chicken Koftas with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward yet deeply flavorful ingredients. Each component is carefully chosen to add vibrant taste, texture, and color, ensuring the final dish is both satisfying and balanced.

500 grams ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps the koftas tender and juicy.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the koftas.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the meat with that unmistakable aromatic punch.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brings a touch of brightness and fresh herbaceous flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy undertone essential to kofta seasoning.
1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds subtle citrusy and nutty notes for complexity.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives a mild heat and depth.
1 cup plain yogurt: The base for your creamy garlic yogurt sauce, cooling and creamy.
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the sauce, balancing the richness.
Pinch of salt: To season the yogurt sauce and bring out its flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the grill ready and adds a hint of fruity richness to the koftas.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Koftas with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture

Begin by combining the ground chicken with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every kofta is infused with vibrant, balanced flavors. The natural moisture from the onion and the fragrant herbs make the koftas tender and bursting with zest.

Step 2: Shape the Koftas

Once mixed, shape the mixture into small oval-shaped koftas using your hands. This shape helps them cook evenly over the grill, allowing the exterior to develop a lovely char while locking in the juicy interior. Don’t worry about perfection; the rustic shape is part of their charm!

Step 3: Preheat and Oil the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high and generously brush the grates with olive oil. This step prevents the koftas from sticking and adds a subtle, delicious layer of flavor. The olive oil also helps achieve those beautiful grill marks that make these koftas look as good as they taste.

Step 4: Grill the Koftas

Place the shaped koftas on the hot grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. This slow, attentive grilling process develops a smoky exterior while thoroughly cooking the ground chicken, ensuring juicy, flavorful bites every time. Keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out, and you’ll be rewarded with tender perfection.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce

While the koftas cook, mix the plain yogurt with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl. This sauce brings the dish together with its creamy texture and bright, garlicky tang that cuts through the richness of the koftas, offering a refreshing counterpoint in every mouthful.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your beautifully grilled koftas hot off the grill alongside a generous dollop of the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. This is the moment where all those care and flavors come together, delivering a dish that is both comforting and exciting. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Koftas with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

The image shows five grilled meat skewers placed side by side inside a white bowl with a white marbled texture surface underneath. Each skewer has evenly browned, slightly charred oval meat pieces that have a rough, grilled texture. On top of each meat piece, there is a dollop of creamy yogurt sauce sprinkled with green herbs, which also spreads across the base of the bowl, mixed with fresh green parsley leaves and a drizzle of oil. The skewers are wooden, with the pointed ends sticking out from one side of the bowl. The whole dish looks warm, fresh, and appetizing, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the koftas just before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on the yogurt sauce can add color and an extra layer of flavor that makes the dish pop visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

Serve these koftas with fluffy basmati rice, warm pita bread, or a bright Mediterranean salad full of cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. These sides complement the bold flavors with freshness and texture, creating a well-rounded meal that your whole family will adore.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, thread the koftas on skewers for easy grilling and serving, transforming them into perfect finger food for parties or picnics. Alternatively, serve them nestled on a bed of salad greens and drizzle the garlic yogurt sauce over everything for a light and elegant plate that feels upscale yet approachable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover koftas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic yogurt sauce separate to maintain its fresh texture and tangy flavor.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze uncooked koftas on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before grilling to maintain their juicy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the koftas in a skillet or oven until heated through, ensuring they don’t dry out. Serve again with freshly stirred garlic yogurt sauce for a delicious second round that tastes nearly as fresh as the first.

FAQs

Can I use other meats besides chicken for this kofta recipe?

Absolutely! While ground chicken keeps these koftas light and juicy, ground lamb or beef also work wonderfully for richer flavors. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.

Is it necessary to grill the koftas, or can I cook them differently?

Grilling adds beautiful char and smokiness, but you can also pan-fry or bake the koftas if you don’t have a grill. Cooking times may vary, but the flavor will still shine when paired with the creamy garlic yogurt sauce.

How garlicky is the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce? Can I adjust it?

It has a gentle garlic flavor that complements the spiced koftas without overpowering them. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or roast the garlic for milder sweetness. Adjust to your taste!

What can I serve instead of pita or rice?

Try serving the koftas with grilled vegetables, couscous, or even a simple quinoa salad. These options add variety and keep the meal vibrant and nutritious.

Can I prepare the kofta mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the kofta ingredients and form the shapes a few hours ahead, storing them covered in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld even more before grilling.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet easy enough for any night of the week, this Grilled Chicken Koftas with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a heartfelt combination of spices, juicy meat, and tangy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation for family dinners and get-togethers alike!