This Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken meatballs are mixed with garlic and spices, then cooked in a rich yogurt sauce that adds a creamy touch.
I love serving these koftas over rice or with fresh bread. Plus, the garlic flavor? Yes, please! It’s a hit at my dinner table every time. You’ll be asked for seconds, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish. If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or pork works wonderfully too. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly!
Onion: Finely grated onion adds moisture and flavor. If you want a milder taste, you could use shallots or even green onions as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings out the best taste. For a milder garlic flavor, try baking the garlic first, then adding it to the mix. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch.
Greek Yogurt: This creamy base makes the sauce rich. You can substitute it with any plain yogurt, like regular yogurt or a dairy-free option if preferred, but Greek yogurt is the best for the texture.
Spices: Spices are essential! If you don’t have cumin, try coriander or a bit of garam masala for a twist. Just be cautious with strong spices to not overpower the dish.
How Do I Make the Koftas Extra Juicy?
To keep your koftas moist and flavorful, mixing the ground chicken with grated onion and fresh herbs is key. Here’s how:
- Ensure to mix all ingredients thoroughly but don’t overwork the meat. Just combine until everything is integrated.
- Shape the koftas gently; don’t pack them too tightly—this helps them stay tender!
- Cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This allows even cooking and browning.
By cooking over medium heat, you’ll get a nice brown crust outside while keeping the inside juicy. Trust me, a little patience goes a long way here!
Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Koftas:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or paprika (optional for mild heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking koftas)
For the Creamy Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing them, then 20 minutes cooking the koftas and making the yogurt sauce. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything until evenly mixed. Make sure not to overmix, as this can make the koftas tough.
2. Shape the Koftas:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. This size allows for quicker cooking and a lovely bite!
3. Cook the Koftas:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken koftas to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally so they brown on all sides and are cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Creamy Yogurt Sauce:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown. Lower the heat, then stir in the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently, warming the sauce without letting it boil, which could curdle the yogurt.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked koftas to the skillet and carefully spoon the creamy garlic yogurt sauce over them. Allow the koftas to simmer in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve your creamy garlic yogurt chicken koftas warm with basmati rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread. Enjoy this delicious and flavorful meal!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey can sometimes cook faster than chicken.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’d like to add some heat, you can increase the chili powder or paprika in the kofta mixture, or add red pepper flakes to the yogurt sauce. You might also consider serving with a spicy sauce on the side!
Can I Make the Koftas Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the koftas and shape them a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to cook, just follow the cooking instructions as usual. Remember to adjust the cooking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover koftas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the sauce creamy.
