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Juicy Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce served in pita wraps with cucumber slices, tomato salad, and fresh herbs.

Juicy Chicken Kofta with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Juicy chicken kofta is prepared using ground chicken mixed with fragrant Middle Eastern spices, fresh herbs, and onion, then cooked until golden and tender. It is paired with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce that adds a cool, tangy contrast. This dish reflects classic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors that are both comforting and vibrant.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 onion, finely grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Finely grate the onion and gently squeeze out excess moisture; chop the parsley and cilantro.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Cover the mixture and let it rest in the refrigerator for fifteen minutes.
  4. Shape the mixture into evenly sized oval or log-shaped kofta.
  5. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease with olive oil.
  6. Cook the kofta, turning carefully, until golden on all sides and cooked through.
  7. In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth and creamy.
  8. Serve the hot chicken kofta with the garlic yogurt sauce spooned over or on the side.

Notes

  • Grated onion adds moisture and keeps the kofta juicy.
  • Avoid overmixing the chicken mixture to maintain a tender texture.
  • Kofta can be cooked on a grill, stovetop, or in the oven.
  • Serve with pita bread, rice, or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a complete meal.