This creamy garlic yogurt chicken kofta is a treat for your taste buds! Juicy chicken meatballs swim in a flavorful yogurt sauce that’s so delicious and smooth.
Every bite is a perfect mix of spices and creamy goodness. I love serving it with warm bread or over rice—it’s like a cozy hug for your belly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! If you want a leaner option, turkey can be a great substitute. Just be mindful that it may need a little extra moisture to stay juicy.
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, use onion powder instead. I sometimes use shallots for a milder taste—they really work well in this recipe!
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the kofta, but feel free to swap it with cilantro for a different flavor kick. I love cilantro in this dish!
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you want to lighten it up, use low-fat yogurt or even plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened!
Spices: The blend of cumin, coriander, and paprika gives a warm depth of flavor. If you’re out of coriander, you can just increase the cumin or use garam masala for a fun twist!
How Do You Cook the Perfect Chicken Kofta?
Cooking chicken kofta can seem tricky, but it’s all about gentle handling and even cooking. Here’s how to get those perfect, juicy koftas:
- When mixing the meat, avoid overworking it. This keeps the kofta tender.
- Keep the heat medium, not too high. This helps them cook through without burning.
- Cook in batches to give each kofta some space. Crowding the pan can cause them to steam instead of brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internally for safe eating.
Enjoy the process, and keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking! You’ll achieve delicious results every time!
Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Kofta:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs or soaked bread, squeezed dry
For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes for preparation and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken Kofta:
Begin by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the ground chicken with the grated onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, pepper, egg, and bread crumbs. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon, being careful not to overmix—this will help your koftas remain tender.
2. Shape the Koftas:
With the mixture ready, shape it into small oblong meatballs, about 1.5 inches long. This will help them cook evenly. Place them on a plate as you go, so they’re ready for the skillet!
3. Cook the Koftas:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Cook the koftas in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Turn them occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil or a bit of butter, and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t brown. This step adds depth to the sauce!
5. Combine the Yogurt Sauce:
Lower the heat and then stir in the Greek yogurt, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Warm gently while stirring to create a creamy sauce without boiling it, as boiling can make the yogurt curdle.
6. Return Koftas to the Skillet:
Carefully place the cooked koftas back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over them, and let them simmer together for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro or parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy your creamy garlic yogurt chicken kofta with warm pita bread, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad for a wholesome and comforting meal!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade kofta!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken and will work just as well. Just keep in mind that it might require a bit more moisture to stay juicy, so you can add a splash of broth or a little extra yogurt if needed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make a dairy-free version, simply swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt alternative, like coconut or almond yogurt. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the flavor balance!
Can I Prepare the Kofta Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the kofta ingredients and shape them into meatballs a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This also helps the flavors meld together nicely!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover kofta and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or yogurt to keep things creamy. Enjoy your meal again!
