Description
How to make easy and juicy Chicken Kofta with seasoned ground chicken and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce that your family will love.
Ingredients
- For the Juicy Chicken Kofta:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken (93% lean)
- ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
- 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Essential Seasonings & Spices:
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make Sauce: First, grate the cucumber and squeeze it very dry to remove excess water. In a medium bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir well to emulsify, then chill this creamy sauce while you prepare the Chicken Kofta.
- Mix Kofta: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, plain breadcrumbs, large egg, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Form Kofta: Divide the chicken mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval or cylindrical kofta, about 3-4 inches long. Place them on a plate, ready for cooking. This technique helps ensure even cooking for your juicy Chicken Kofta.
- Cook Kofta: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kofta in batches, cooking for 4-5 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest Kofta: Once cooked, transfer the chicken kofta to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout, ensuring your Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce remains incredibly juicy.
- Assemble Dish: Arrange the warm, rested Chicken Kofta on individual serving plates. Dollop generous amounts of the chilled creamy garlic yogurt sauce alongside each serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
- Serve Warm: Serve your delicious Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Easy & Juicy immediately. It pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete, satisfying meal that brings smiles to the table.
Notes
Always rest cooked kofta for 5 minutes to redistribute juices and prevent dry results.
Store cooled kofta in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator; keep sauce separate.
Ground turkey, specifically 93% lean, makes an excellent substitute for chicken in this kofta recipe.
Serve warm kofta with chilled garlic yogurt sauce, paired wonderfully with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
Prepare the kofta mixture and garlic yogurt sauce ahead; store covered in the fridge for a day or two.
Chill the kofta mixture for 30 minutes before forming for easier handling and perfect searing.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Eggs, Gluten