Description
Experience bold flavor in every bite with this Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt recipe—an easy dinner idea that’s both protein-packed and deeply satisfying. These juicy, pan-seared koftas are bursting with herbs and spices, served atop a creamy garlic yogurt sauce that brings balance and brightness. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or need a unique addition to your list of healthy food ideas, this dish is your new go-to. Great for meal prep, entertaining, or a comforting weeknight meal—it’s a recipe that truly delivers.
Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken
1 small onion, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
0.25 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
0.5 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp ground coriander
0.5 tsp smoked paprika
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp chili flakes
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 egg
0.25 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 garlic clove, finely grated
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped herbs, spices, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix gently until combined. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.
2. Shape chilled mixture into oval or cylindrical koftas using damp hands. You should get about 10–12 koftas.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the koftas in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
4. While cooking the koftas, mix Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir in herbs and drizzle with olive oil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Spread yogurt sauce on a serving platter and place the cooked koftas on top. Garnish with more herbs and a final drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm with pita, rice, or salad.
Notes
Use ground chicken thigh for juicier koftas—breast meat tends to dry out.
Chill the mixture before shaping to help the koftas hold their form.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—give them space for proper browning and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 koftas + sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 420
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 14
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 27
- Cholesterol: 115
Keywords: chicken kofta, easy dinner, healthy dinner idea, garlic yogurt sauce, food ideas, meal prep, quick dinner, Mediterranean recipe