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Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 106 reviews

This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring tender ground chicken kofta seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. Pan-seared to a golden perfection and served with a creamy, zesty garlic yogurt sauce, it’s perfect for a hearty meal accompanied by warm pita bread or fragrant rice.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Kofta

  • 1.5 lbs ground chicken (preferably dark meat)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Garlic Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Pita bread or rice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, cilantro, mint, egg, breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix to maintain tender kofta.
  2. Test the Seasoning: Take a small amount of the mixture (about a teaspoon) and cook it in a pan until cooked through. Taste it and adjust the seasoning in the main bowl if needed to ensure balanced flavors.
  3. Form the Kofta: Form the kofta into 1.5 to 2-inch long and 1-inch diameter shapes, resembling small sausages or oblong meatballs. Wet your hands slightly with water to prevent sticking while shaping.
  4. Chill the Kofta (Optional): Place the formed kofta on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the kofta hold their shape better during cooking.
  5. Cook the Chicken Kofta: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, preparing to sear the kofta evenly.
  6. Sear the Kofta: Carefully place the kofta in the skillet, leaving space between each piece. Sear on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side, developing a crisp exterior.
  7. Cook Through: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for 8-10 minutes, or until the kofta are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Rest the Kofta (Optional): Remove the kofta from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
  9. Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped dill.
  10. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to the sauce according to your preference, ensuring a bright and balanced flavor.
  11. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
  12. Chill the Sauce (Optional): Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
  13. Serve: Arrange the cooked chicken kofta on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the garlic yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately alongside warm pita bread or rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Using dark meat ground chicken helps keep the kofta moist and flavorful.
  • Chilling the formed kofta before cooking helps them hold their shape better.
  • You can adjust the cayenne pepper or omit it to control the heat level.
  • Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and dill add brightness; do not substitute with dried herbs for best flavor.
  • The garlic yogurt sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
  • Serve with pita bread for a traditional touch or rice for a more filling option.

Keywords: Chicken Kofta, Garlic Yogurt Sauce, Middle Eastern Chicken, Ground Chicken Recipe, Healthy Kofta, Mediterranean Chicken, Easy Chicken Kofta

Find it online: https://cookcrisis.com/chicken-kofta-with-garlic-yogurt-sauce-recipe/