Name: Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 400g ground chicken; 1 small onion, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons chopped parsley; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); 3/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 clove garlic, minced (for yogurt); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for yogurt); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt to taste (for yogurt)

This recipe strikes a beautiful balance between hearty and refreshing. Inspired by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean kitchens, it offers a satisfying protein-rich option that feels light, yet comforting. Whether you serve them with rice, warm pita, or a crisp cucumber salad, this dish easily becomes a household favorite.

What Kind of Ground Chicken Should I Use?

For the best Chicken Kofta texture, go for ground chicken with a little fat—around 93% lean. Extra-lean chicken can result in dry koftas. If you’re grinding your own, combining thighs and breast meat works beautifully. The slight fat content not only keeps them juicy but also enhances their flavor during cooking.

Ingredients for the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

Ground chicken: This is your base. Choose one with a bit of fat for moist, flavorful koftas.
Fresh parsley: Brings a burst of herbaceous freshness and helps bind the mixture.
Garlic: Minced into the kofta mixture and whisked into the yogurt, garlic deepens the savoriness.
Onion: Grated onion adds both flavor and moisture.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the koftas while keeping them tender.
Spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper): This earthy mix builds depth and aroma.
Greek yogurt: Tangy and creamy, it forms the perfect sauce base.
Olive oil: Used for pan-searing and enriching the yogurt dressing.

How To Make the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, finely chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, and all the spices. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it or the koftas may get tough.

Step 2: Shape the Koftas

With damp hands, shape the mixture into oval or log-shaped patties, about 2-3 inches long. You can chill them for 15 minutes to help them firm up if needed.

Step 3: Sear the Koftas

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the koftas in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt

In a small bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and a splash of lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Spread a generous spoonful of garlic yogurt on the bottom of a serving dish. Arrange koftas over the yogurt, sprinkle with extra parsley, and drizzle more olive oil if desired.

How to Serve and Store This Chicken Kofta

Serve Chicken Kofta warm, straight from the skillet, with the cool garlic yogurt spread underneath or drizzled on top. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The koftas reheat well on the stove or microwave, and the garlic yogurt holds up beautifully, just give it a quick stir.

What to Serve With Chicken Kofta?

Warm Pita Bread

Soft and fluffy pita is perfect for scooping up koftas and garlic yogurt.

Herbed Rice Pilaf

A fragrant rice side dish makes a hearty pairing.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

The crunch and acidity balance the richness of the kofta.

Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil and spices make a tasty, colorful match.

Hummus or Baba Ghanoush

For a true Middle Eastern feast, add a scoop of your favorite creamy dip.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Chicken Kofta has you craving more bold and comforting flavors, try these satisfying dishes:

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy for a cozy, set-it-and-forget-it option.
Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken when you want maximum crunch.
Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken for a rich, cheesy weeknight winner.
Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole for a family-friendly bake.
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs if you’re craving sweet-savory Asian flair.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added a pinch of chili flakes or swapped in cilantro for parsley? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Looking for a protein-packed dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor? These Chicken Koftas with Garlic Yogurt are juicy, herby, and incredibly satisfying. Made with tender ground chicken and a blend of warm spices, they’re pan-seared to golden perfection and served over a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Whether you’re after quick dinner ideas, high-protein food ideas, or healthy meals that don’t taste “healthy,” this easy recipe is your new go-to. Ideal for easy dinner nights, high-protein lunch prep, or impressing guests with something unique but simple.