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Middle Eastern comfort food gets a weeknight-friendly twist with this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt. Imagine tender, juicy chicken meatballs, seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices, served warm over a creamy garlicky yogurt sauce. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves not a single kofta behind.

Whether you’re looking to shake up your usual dinner rotation or impress with something new, this chicken kofta recipe is satisfying without being heavy. It’s cozy yet bright thanks to the lemon and herbs, and that garlic yogurt? It’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to spoon over everything.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

This dish checks all the boxes. It’s high in protein, gluten-free, and easy enough for a weekday but elegant enough to serve guests. The koftas are pan-seared for maximum flavor and paired with a sauce that’s cool, tangy, and completely irresistible. It’s quick to prep and even faster to disappear.

What Makes the Garlic Yogurt So Special?

The garlic yogurt isn’t just a side dip here; it’s the heart of the dish. Greek yogurt blended with freshly grated garlic and lemon juice offers a creamy, zesty counterpoint to the warmly spiced kofta. It elevates each bite and brings a refreshing balance that makes you crave the next one.

Ingredients for the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

To make juicy, flavorful koftas with the perfect balance of spice and tenderness, you only need a handful of accessible ingredients. Every one of them plays a role in the final taste and texture.

• Ground chicken: Lean yet juicy, ground chicken is the perfect blank canvas for herbs and spices.
• Garlic: You’ll use fresh garlic in both the kofta mixture and the yogurt sauce for maximum depth.
• Onion: Grated onion keeps the koftas moist and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds brightness and color to the koftas.
• Cumin: This earthy spice gives the kofta their signature Middle Eastern warmth.
• Coriander: Ground coriander brings a citrusy note that lifts the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• Greek yogurt: Thick and creamy, it forms the base of the cooling garlic sauce.
• Lemon juice: A splash of lemon enhances the yogurt’s tang and brings freshness.
• Olive oil: Used for pan-frying the kofta to golden perfection.

How To Make the Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

Step 1: Make the Kofta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until fully combined, but don’t overmix to keep the koftas tender.

Step 2: Form the Koftas

Shape the mixture into small oval patties or meatballs, depending on your preference. You should get about 12.

Step 3: Cook the Koftas

Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the koftas in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes total.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt

In a small bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes to allow the garlic to mellow.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon the garlic yogurt onto a plate, arrange the koftas on top, and garnish with extra parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt

This dish is best served warm, right after cooking, when the koftas are juicy and the garlic yogurt is cool and creamy. It feeds 4 people comfortably as a main dish. If you’re prepping ahead, store the koftas and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 4 days. To reheat the koftas, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F.

Freezing is also an option. Freeze cooked koftas on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

What to Serve With Chicken Kofta?

Warm Pita or Flatbread

Perfect for scooping up the kofta and sauce together, pita makes this dish feel complete.

Herbed Rice Pilaf

A bed of fluffy rice with herbs like dill or mint turns this into a heartier meal.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Fresh veggies with olive oil and lemon make a crisp contrast to the savory kofta.

Pickled Onions

Bright, tangy, and punchy—they add zing to each bite.

Hummus

Creamy hummus is a natural partner that rounds out the plate.

Roasted Veggies

Zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots pair beautifully with the spiced kofta.

Stuffed Grape Leaves

A Mediterranean favorite that adds texture and variety to your mezze spread.

Want More Chicken Ideas with Flavor Twists?

If these Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt caught your attention, you’ll probably enjoy these bold and comforting chicken dishes too:

• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving a creamy pasta alternative.
• Cheesy Chicken Fritters for a crispy, cheesy bite.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for a cozy, all-in-one dinner.
• Best Chicken and Rice Casserole for comfort food lovers.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce for an easy wrap packed with garlic flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can whip it up again on busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t disappoint.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a little cayenne in the kofta or add mint to the yogurt sauce?

I love seeing how you customize recipes to your own style. Don’t be shy about asking questions either!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner idea!

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