Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce

There’s something so satisfying when juicy, spiced chicken meets a silky, tangy sauce that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Cooking up these Chicken Koftas has become one of my go-to solutions for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast and home cook, I absolutely adore how these tender oval meatballs can soak up every bit of spice—cumin, coriander, a hint of cinnamon, and a whisper of cayenne pepper—all harmonizing in every bite. You’ll find yourself smiling as you press each kofta into shape, recalling the fun of childhood playtime but with a delicious grown-up payoff. This recipe is perfect for lunch or dinner, and it earns extra brownie points for being super approachable for even total beginners in the kitchen.

If you’re hunting for that effortless, healthy recipe to tick all the boxes—low in calories (just around 320 per serving!), beginner-friendly, bursting with savory aromas, and ready in under half an hour—this is it. The prep time is a breezy 15 minutes, followed by a quick 10-minute cooking session, and voilà! No resting time needed, so you’ll be tucking into dinner before you know it. And that creamy garlic yogurt sauce? It’s the crown jewel here, made with tangy Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. As someone who loves a good flavor twist, I promise this sauce takes these koftas from deliciously good to truly unforgettable. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself, these Chicken Koftas with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce are a total win.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN KOFTA WITH CREAMY GARLIC YOGURT SAUCE

Before we dive into the kitchen, let’s talk about the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the wonderfully lean ground chicken to the bright hit of parsley, here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:

• Ground chicken

Provides a tender, lean base that absorbs all the spices beautifully, keeping the koftas light yet satisfying.

• Onion

Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture, ensuring the meatballs stay juicy as they cook.

• Garlic cloves

Delivers that unmistakable pungent aroma and depth, both in the kofta mix and the creamy sauce.

• Ground cumin

Introduces earthy, warm notes that are essential to authentic kofta flavor.

• Ground coriander

Compliments the cumin with a citrusy, slightly nutty taste, rounding out the spice profile.

• Ground cinnamon

A little twist of sweetness that lifts the savory spices and gives a subtle exotic touch.

• Cayenne pepper

Adds a gentle heat, giving the koftas a lively kick without overpowering the palate.

• Fresh parsley

Contributes a vibrant green freshness and a clean finish, both mixed into the meat and sprinkled on top.

• Salt and pepper

Essential seasonings that amplify and balance all the other flavors for a well-rounded taste.

• Olive oil

Used for searing the koftas to a gorgeous golden brown and enriching the sauce with a silky mouthfeel.

• Greek yogurt

Forms the base of the sauce, offering a luscious creaminess and tang that contrasts beautifully with the spiced meat.

• Lemon juice

Injects bright acidity to cut through the richness of the yogurt, keeping the sauce light and refreshing.

HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN KOFTA WITH CREAMY GARLIC YOGURT SAUCE

Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring everything together! In this section, you’ll find clear, step-by-step guidance that walks you through crafting perfectly seasoned koftas and whisking up that dreamy garlic yogurt sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these detailed instructions will ensure flawless results every time.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix well, ensuring every spice and herb is evenly distributed for consistent flavor in each kofta.

2. Shape the mixture into small oval meatballs, about the size of a tablespoon each. Press gently to keep them firm but avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a dense texture.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the koftas in a single layer, giving each enough space to brown evenly. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are a rich, golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.

4. While the koftas are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Stir vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy, tasting and adjusting salt or lemon as needed.

5. Remove the cooked koftas from the skillet and transfer them to a serving platter. Choose whether to drizzle the creamy garlic yogurt sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.

6. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your koftas warm, embracing every tender, spiced bite paired with the cool, tangy sauce.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN KOFTA WITH CREAMY GARLIC YOGURT SAUCE

Once your koftas and creamy garlic yogurt sauce are ready, it’s time to think about plating and pairing. These spiced meatballs are versatile and work beautifully with so many sides—each suggestion below will help you elevate the dish to a memorable meal for family or friends.

• Pita Bread Pockets: Hollow out warm, fluffy pita rounds and fill them with koftas, sauce, and crisp cucumber slices. The soft bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that creamy garlic goodness.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve your koftas over a bed of fragrant rice pilaf studded with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs. The nutty, herby rice is an excellent canvas for the bold flavors of the koftas and sauce.
• Garden Salad: Toss mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and a light lemon-olive oil dressing. The bright, crunchy salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced meatballs.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar. The earthy, caramelized veggies complement the savory koftas and add vibrant color to the plate.

HOW TO STORE CHICKEN KOFTA WITH CREAMY GARLIC YOGURT SAUCE

If you find yourself with leftovers—or if you want to meal-prep ahead—proper storage is key to maintaining the koftas’ juicy texture and the sauce’s bright flavor. Below are my top recommendations for keeping everything fresh and delicious for later enjoyment.

• Refrigerate Separately

Place cooked koftas and yogurt sauce in airtight containers and store them on separate shelves in the fridge. This prevents moisture from the sauce altering the koftas’ texture. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.

• Freeze for Longer Storage

Freeze koftas in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

• Store Sauce in Glass Jars

Keep your creamy garlic yogurt sauce in a small glass jar with a tight lid. This preserves its tangy flavor and thick consistency for up to 5 days in the fridge.

• Reheating Tips

Warm koftas in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or in a skillet over low heat. Always reheat gently to maintain tenderness, then add the cold sauce just before serving.

CONCLUSION

I hope this detailed guide to creating Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce has inspired you to bring a burst of exciting, savory flavors into your kitchen. From the ease of mixing those fragrant spices into lean ground chicken to the simple joy of whisking together a cool, garlicky sauce, every step is designed to make you feel confident—even if you’re a complete beginner. You now have a recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, ready in under half an hour, and boasting a healthy profile with just around 320 calories per serving. Whether you choose to tuck these juicy koftas into warm pita, serve them over rice, or pile them atop a crisp garden salad, the result will be a meal that’s both impressive and approachable.

Feel free to print this article or save it for later so you can whip it up whenever the mood strikes. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to address any last-minute questions you might have. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about your experience—drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask any questions you have about flavors, storage, or reheating. Your feedback not only helps me refine my own cooking adventures but also supports fellow home chefs on their culinary journeys. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious, creamy-bathed bite!

Print Recipe

Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Author: Annie Delgado Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 25 mins

Calories: 320

Description

Experience a burst of delicious flavors with tender chicken kofta perfectly paired with a rich and creamy garlic yogurt sauce. An easy yet impressive dish for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 500 g ground chicken

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• ¹⁄₂ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¹⁄₄ tsp cayenne pepper

• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small oval-shaped meatballs, about the size of a tablespoon each.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken koftas and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
4. While the koftas are cooking, make the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
5. Remove the cooked chicken koftas from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle the creamy garlic yogurt sauce over the top or serve it on the side.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm.

Note

• These koftas can be grilled or baked if preferred, making them a versatile dish.
• Keep the koftas moist by not overworking the meat mixture when forming them.
• The sauce can be adjusted to taste—add more lemon juice for tanginess or more garlic for a punch.
• Serve with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• For a spicy kick, add additional cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.

Keywords: chicken kofta, creamy garlic sauce, Greek yogurt, easy dinner, healthy recipe, savory dish