Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired is a delicious and easy homemade dish that perfects juicy, flavorful meatballs with a cooling garlic yogurt sauce. These koftas have a wonderful blend of spices that deliver authentic Mediterranean taste without any complicated techniques. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is beginner-friendly and great for weeknight meals or meal prep. Pair it with my 18 Easy Frozen Greek Yogurt Recipes! for a refreshing dessert after dinner.
Why You'll Love Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe
This easy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired recipe is perfect for quick, flavorful family dinners. Cozy and healthy!
- Juicy and tender chicken koftas with a perfect blend of warm Mediterranean spices
- Quick and straightforward recipe ideal for beginners and weeknight cooking
- The creamy garlic yogurt sauce balances spices and adds fresh flavor
- Healthy protein-rich main dish using pantry staples and budget-friendly ingredients
Ingredients for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe
Ground chicken: Use dark meat for juicier koftas. Substitute with ground turkey for leaner option.Breadcrumbs: Use fresh or panko breadcrumbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this gluten-free.
- Ground chicken: Use dark meat for juicier koftas. Substitute with ground turkey for leaner option.
- Breadcrumbs: Use fresh or panko breadcrumbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this gluten-free.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Prepare the kofta mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, and egg. Add cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Shape the koftas: With wet hands, form the mixture into 12-16 oval or round meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Cook the koftas: Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake the koftas in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked inside (165°F internal temperature).
Expert Tips for Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep koftas tender and juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure koftas reach 165°F internally for safety.
- For extra flavor, marinate the kofta mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe
This easy Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired recipe is perfect for quick, flavorful family dinners. Cozy and healthy!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken (preferably thigh for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh dill or mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
How to Make Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired
- Prepare the kofta mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, breadcrumbs, and egg. Add cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape the koftas: With wet hands, form the mixture into 12-16 oval or round meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cook the koftas: Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake the koftas in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked inside (165°F internal temperature).
- Make the garlic yogurt sauce: While the koftas bake, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve: Plate the hot koftas and drizzle or dip with garlic yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh dill or mint, if desired.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can mix the kofta meat the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. Shape and bake just before serving for best freshness.
Ground turkey or ground lamb are good substitutes that work well with Mediterranean spices.
Store leftover koftas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Overcooking or using only lean ground chicken breast can make koftas dry. Use dark meat and avoid overmixing.
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Before You Go
If you try this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – Juicy, Spiced & Mediterranean-Inspired Easy Homemade Recipe, I’d love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.