Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that brings together juicy, spiced ground chicken with a luxuriously tangy cooling component, this Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a culinary treasure you simply must try. Perfectly seasoned and tender kofta meets a vibrant yogurt sauce that complements every bite, creating a heartwarming meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to share with friends and family. The blend of fragrant spices, toasted pine nuts, and fresh herbs all wrapped up in warm pita bread makes this recipe nothing short of unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of a great Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s the warm spices that build depth, the pine nuts adding texture and richness, or fresh herbs to brighten the flavors.

• Ground Chicken: The lean base ingredient provides tender, flavorful meat that soaks up all the spices beautifully.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors within the kofta and yogurt sauce.
• Pine Nuts: Toasted for a subtle crunch and buttery note that elevates this dish.
• Yellow Onion (small): Adds sweetness and moisture once blended into the kofta mix.
• Garlic (3 cloves): Infuses aromatic warmth into the kofta mixture.
• Cardamom: Provides a fragrant, citrusy hint that brightens the spiced profile.
• Cinnamon: Adds a cozy, sweet undertone that rounds out the savory elements.
• Ground Cloves: A small touch imparts a deep, earthy warmth to the kofta.
• Sumac: Brings a tangy, lemony brightness, perfect for balancing richness.
• Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty spice enhancing complexity.
• Paprika: Infuses color and mild smokiness into the meat.
• Cumin: Ground cumin anchors the dish with its nutty, slightly peppery character.
• Parsley (minced): Fresh herbs lighten the rich kofta with vibrant green freshness.
• Plain Yogurt: The base of the cooling sauce pairs perfectly with the spicy kofta.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Used for cooking the kofta, adds a fruity richness and helps form a beautiful crust.
• Garlic (1 clove for sauce): Adds a pungent zing to the yogurt sauce.
• Lemon (juiced): Brightens the yogurt sauce with a fresh citrus note.
• Pitas: Soft and warm, perfect for wrapping the kofta and sauce into a handheld delight.
• Red Onion (thinly sliced): Offers a sharp crunch and bite contrast.
• Tomato (cut into wedges): Juicy and fresh, balances the spices with natural sweetness.

How to Make Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Toast Pine Nuts and Prepare Kofta Mixture

Begin by toasting the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until they turn golden and release their irresistible aroma, about 5 minutes. This step adds a buttery crunch and deepens their flavor before blending. Then, blitz the toasted pine nuts together with the yellow onion and fresh parsley in a food processor until finely combined, forming a luscious base for the kofta mix.

Step 2: Combine Ground Chicken with Spices and Pine Nut Mixture

In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with the blended pine nut-onion-parsley mixture, then add all the fragrant spices including cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, sumac, nutmeg, paprika, cumin, salt, and the remaining minced parsley. This harmony of seasonings ensures every bite is bursting with warmth and complexity. Mix thoroughly to combine everything evenly—this makes the kofta juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Shape and Sear the Kofta

Using a 3-tablespoon measure, scoop out the kofta mixture and gently shape into elongated meatballs or patties. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the kofta in batches, letting them sear undisturbed until a golden crust forms, about 5 minutes. Carefully turn and cook all sides well, approximately 10 minutes total. If the kofta are browning too quickly, turn the heat down a bit. This step locks in moisture and adds savory caramelized texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Cooling Yogurt Sauce

While the kofta cooks, mix together the yogurt sauce ingredients: plain yogurt, minced garlic, ground cumin, lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir well to blend the flavors and keep chilled in the fridge until serving. This sauce provides a refreshing tang and coolness that perfectly balances the spiced meat.

Step 5: Serve the Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce

Once the kofta are perfectly cooked, plate them alongside a generous drizzle of the yogurt sauce, thinly sliced red onion, wedges of fresh tomato, and warm pita bread ready for wrapping. The contrast of textures and flavors makes each bite an absolute delight.

How to Serve Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley or mint adds a lovely verdant note and elevates the presentation beautifully. You can also sprinkle a pinch of sumac on top for an extra zing and vibrant color.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with light Mediterranean sides like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, or even a warm serving of spiced couscous or fluffy basmati rice. Fresh vegetables complement the rich, spiced kofta brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken kofta open-faced on flatbreads topped with the yogurt sauce and all the veggies for a casual, shared platter. Or skewer the kofta and grill them for an outdoor-friendly option with smoky grill marks adding even more flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover kofta and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The kofta will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the sauce’s tangy flavor actually intensifies overnight.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked kofta shaped on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Frozen kofta maintain their flavor for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating

Reheat leftover kofta gently in a skillet on low heat to prevent drying out, or warm in the oven wrapped in foil. Serve with the yogurt sauce chilled or slightly warmed if preferred.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute, offering a similar lean texture that works perfectly with the warm spices.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just avoid serving with pita bread or choose gluten-free flatbreads to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

How spicy is the Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe?

This recipe relies more on fragrant warm spices than heat, so it’s mildly spiced. You can easily add a pinch of chili flakes if you like things spicier.

Can I prepare kofta in advance?

You can shape the kofta ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking, which helps the flavors develop even more.

What is the best yogurt to use for the sauce?

Use plain, full-fat yogurt for a creamy, rich sauce. Greek yogurt also works well if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a surefire way to brighten your dinner table with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or craving a comforting meal, these tender spiced meatballs paired with a cool, tangy sauce will keep you coming back for more. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and create delicious memories around it!

Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce Recipe

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Delicious and aromatic Chicken Kofta served with a tangy yogurt sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish features spiced ground chicken meatballs seared to perfection and complemented by a refreshing yogurt and cumin dipping sauce. Ideal for serving with pita bread, fresh tomatoes, and red onions.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Chicken Kofta

• 2 lbs Ground Chicken
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• 3/4 cups Pine Nuts
• 1 small Yellow Onion
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 1/4 tsp Cardamom
• 1/4 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves
• 1/2 tsp Sumac
• 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp Paprika
• 3/4 tsp Cumin
• 1/4 cup Parsley, minced
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Yogurt Sauce

• 1 cup Plain Yogurt
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 tsp Cumin
• 1 Lemon, juiced
• 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1 tsp Parsley, minced

To Serve

• Pitas
• Red Onion, thinly sliced
• Tomato, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Toast Pine Nuts and Prepare Mixture: Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then, place the toasted pine nuts, yellow onion, garlic cloves, and parsley in a food processor and blitz until finely combined.
2. Combine Kofta Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the processed pine nut mixture with the ground chicken, kosher salt, cardamom, cinnamon, ground cloves, sumac, nutmeg, paprika, cumin, and minced parsley. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Form Kofta Balls: Using a 3-tablespoon measure, scoop out the kofta mixture and shape into uniform meatballs. Set them aside ready for cooking.
4. Sear Kofta: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the kofta meatballs and cook until a crust forms and they release easily from the pan, about 5 minutes. Turn each kofta to sear all sides, which takes about 10 more minutes. If they begin to crisp too much, reduce heat to medium to prevent burning.
5. Prepare Yogurt Sauce: While the kofta cooks, combine the yogurt, minced garlic, cumin, lemon juice, kosher salt, and minced parsley in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Serve: Plate the cooked chicken kofta and drizzle with the prepared yogurt sauce. Serve alongside warm pita bread, thinly sliced red onions, and tomato wedges for a complete meal.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if preferred.
• Be careful not to overcook the kofta to keep them moist and tender.
• To make the kofta mixture easier to handle, chill it for 15 minutes before shaping.
• Sumac adds a distinctive tangy flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
• The yogurt sauce can be prepared a day ahead for enhanced flavor.