Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe | Juicy Spiced Kofta with Creamy Middle Eastern Flavor

Bold, Juicy, and Totally Weeknight-Friendly

Chicken kofta is the kind of dish that makes weeknight cooking feel exciting without being complicated. Inspired by recipes from RichSpoon, I’ll Just Cook, and Sublime Cake, this version takes the humble meatball and gives it a bold, aromatic twist. Instead of beef or lamb, ground chicken is seasoned with fragrant spices and fresh herbs, creating a lighter yet deeply flavorful bite. The beauty of kofta lies in its versatility—you can grill it for smoky char, pan-sear it for crisp edges, or bake it for a hands-off approach. Each method delivers juicy, tender morsels that pair beautifully with a cooling yogurt sauce. Whether tucked into pita, served over rice, or plated with vibrant salads, chicken kofta is a dish that feels both comforting and adventurous. It’s proof that dinner can be quick, satisfying, and just a little bit special, even on the busiest nights.

What Is Chicken Kofta?

Chicken kofta is a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean classic reimagined with ground chicken. Traditionally, kofta refers to spiced meatballs or patties made from lamb or beef, but chicken offers a lighter, leaner alternative that still packs plenty of flavor. The mixture combines ground chicken with garlic, onion, parsley, and warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. Once seasoned, the meat is shaped into skewers for grilling or patties for pan-searing, making it adaptable to different cooking styles. Kofta is beloved for its balance of savory richness and herbaceous freshness, often paired with tangy sauces or vibrant sides. In many cultures, it’s a staple of family gatherings, street food stalls, and festive spreads. Chicken kofta captures that same spirit while being approachable for everyday cooking. It’s a dish that bridges tradition and convenience, offering a taste of global flavors right from your own kitchen.

Ingredient Overview

The foundation of chicken kofta is a well-seasoned meat mixture. Start with ground chicken, ideally from thighs for extra juiciness. To this, add garlic and onion for depth, parsley for freshness, and a blend of cumin, coriander, and paprika for warm, earthy spice. Salt and pepper round out the seasoning.

For the sauce, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. This creamy, tangy dip balances the richness of the kofta and adds a cooling contrast.

Optional add-ins can elevate the flavor: chili flakes for heat, mint for brightness, sumac for tang, or breadcrumbs for binding. Each tweak lets you customize the dish to your taste.

Tip: Use ground chicken thigh instead of breast—it has more fat, which keeps the kofta tender and flavorful. With these ingredients, you’ll have everything you need for a dish that’s simple yet bursting with character.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken with garlic, onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Shape the kofta: Form the mixture into patties or mold around skewers for grilling. Keep the size uniform for even cooking.
3. Chill: Place shaped kofta on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps firm them up and prevents breaking apart during cooking.
4. Cook:
   • Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
   • Pan-sear: Heat oil in a skillet. Fry patties for 4–5 minutes per side until crisp and fully cooked.
   • Bake: Arrange on a parchment-lined tray. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until done.
5. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth.
6. Serve: Plate kofta with yogurt sauce drizzled over or served on the side.

Tip: Don’t overmix the meat. Gentle handling ensures the kofta stays tender and juicy.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ons

Chicken kofta is endlessly adaptable. Stir chopped mint or dill into the yogurt sauce for extra freshness. For spice lovers, mix in harissa or sprinkle za’atar into the kofta mixture for a bold kick. To add texture and tang, serve with pickled onions or a crisp cucumber salad. These variations let you tailor the dish to your mood—whether you want something cooling, fiery, or tangy. Kofta thrives on creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs, spices, and sides to make it uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken kofta shines when paired with simple, hearty sides. Wrap them in warm pita bread with fresh greens for a handheld meal, or serve over rice or couscous for a comforting plate. Add grilled vegetables or a bright tabbouleh salad to balance the richness. Kofta also works beautifully in wraps, bowls, or mezze platters, where it can be combined with hummus, olives, and dips for a festive spread. Whether casual or celebratory, chicken kofta adapts to any table, making it a versatile dish that’s as fun to serve as it is to eat.