Name: Grilled Chicken Kofta with Creamy Herb Yogurt Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 600 g ground chicken; 1 small onion, finely grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; Skewers; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt to taste (for sauce)

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Grilled chicken kofta is a savory dish made from seasoned ground chicken shaped onto skewers and grilled until golden and lightly charred. It is served with a creamy herb yogurt sauce that adds freshness and balance to the rich, spiced meat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is flavorful, protein-rich, and straightforward to prepare. The kofta remains juicy and tender while developing a smoky exterior from grilling. The herb yogurt sauce enhances the dish without overpowering it, making this recipe suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground chicken
Onion
Garlic
Fresh parsley
Fresh dill
Ground cumin
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Wooden or metal skewers
Plain Greek yogurt
Lemon juice

Directions

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
Finely grate the onion and mince the garlic.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, dill, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until evenly incorporated.
Divide the mixture into equal portions and mold each portion firmly around a skewer.
Brush the kofta lightly with olive oil.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill the kofta for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and evenly browned.
In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice and finely chopped herbs.
Serve the kofta hot, topped with or alongside the herb yogurt sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, cooking time is 12 minutes, and total time is approximately 35 minutes.

Variations

Ground turkey may be used instead of chicken. Additional spices such as coriander or chili flakes may be added for deeper flavor. The kofta can also be baked at 200°C (400°F) if grilling is unavailable.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through. Store the yogurt sauce separately and consume within 2 days.

FAQs

Can I prepare the kofta mixture ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated.

How do I keep the kofta from drying out?

Avoid overmixing and do not overcook the chicken.

Can I cook these without skewers?

Yes, the mixture may be shaped into small patties and grilled or pan-fried.

What herbs work best in the yogurt sauce?

Parsley and dill are ideal, but mint may also be added.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it is mildly seasoned, but heat can be added if desired.

Can I freeze chicken kofta?

Yes, uncooked kofta can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What should I serve with chicken kofta?

It pairs well with rice, flatbread, salads, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use low-fat yogurt?

Yes, though full-fat yogurt provides a creamier texture.

How do I know when the kofta is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).

Can I pan-fry instead of grill?

Yes, cook over medium heat in a lightly oiled skillet.

Conclusion

Grilled chicken kofta with creamy herb yogurt sauce is a well-balanced dish that combines bold seasoning with fresh, cooling elements. Its simplicity, versatility, and reliable results make it a valuable addition to any home cooking repertoire.

Grilled Chicken Kofta with Creamy Herb Yogurt Sauce

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Flavorful grilled chicken kofta shaped onto skewers, seasoned with warm spices and fresh herbs, and served with a smooth, creamy herb yogurt sauce.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Diet: Halal

Instructions

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
Mix well until evenly combined and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Divide mixture evenly and shape around skewers.
Grill kofta for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred.
In a small bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and salt until smooth.
Serve grilled chicken kofta hot with creamy herb yogurt sauce.