This Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta is a tasty dish made with spiced chicken meatballs. They’re juicy, flavorful, and cooked in a rich garlic yogurt sauce that’s simply irresistible!
You’ll love how quick this dish comes together! I usually serve it with rice or warm pita. Get ready for some happy taste buds and maybe a few happy dances in the kitchen! 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein for the kofta. If you want a leaner option, turkey is a great substitute. For a vegetarian twist, try using chickpeas or lentils to create a veggie kofta instead!
Onion: Grating the onion helps to infuse moisture and flavor. If you’re short on fresh onions, you can use onion powder (1 tablespoon) instead, but fresh adds a better texture.
Fresh Parsley: It brings freshness to the kofta. If parsley isn’t your thing, cilantro or mint works too. Each adds a unique flavor twist!
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient is essential for the creamy sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute it with low-fat yogurt or even sour cream. Non-dairy yogurts are also a good choice if you’re avoiding dairy.
What is the Best Way to Shape Kofta Meatballs?
Shaping the kofta into meatballs might seem tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it!:
- Wet your hands with water. This helps prevent the raw chicken mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This size cooks evenly and is perfect for cozy bites.
- Make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking!
Give yourself a little practice; it gets easier the more you make them! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Creamy Garlic Yogurt Chicken Kofta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kofta:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 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 smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional, for binding)
For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs (if using). Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.
2. Shape the Kofta:
With wet hands (to prevent sticking), shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go.
3. Cook the Kofta:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add the kofta meatballs in batches, cooking for about 5-6 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the kofta from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil or butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to brown it!
5. Combine the Yogurt:
Lower the heat and gradually stir in the Greek yogurt, mixing well with the sautéed garlic. Add the water or chicken broth to thin the sauce to your liking.
6. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the dried oregano or thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors to your preference!
7. Simmer the Kofta:
Return the cooked kofta to the skillet, gently coating them in the creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Let them simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through.
8. Garnish & Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side if desired, and enjoy this creamy, garlicky delight with rice, couscous, or warm flatbread!
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield delicious kofta. Just keep in mind that turkey may have a slightly different flavor, but it will be just as tasty!
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt will work fine. You can also use sour cream for a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based yogurt made from almond or coconut milk.
How Do I Store Leftover Kofta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Kofta?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked kofta! Shape them into meatballs, then flash freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen by increasing the cooking time slightly.
