Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce: 7 Irresistible Flavors

Let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce! This dish is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and brings together a symphony of flavors that are sure to impress your taste buds. Picture juicy ground chicken, perfectly spiced with warm notes of cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg, forming tender koftas that are so easy to whip up. Seriously, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to prepare this delightful meal, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

I remember the first time I tasted Chicken Kofta at a little family-run restaurant. The aroma was intoxicating, and as soon as I took a bite, I was hooked! The creamy yogurt sauce paired with fresh herbs adds a refreshing contrast that takes this dish to a whole new level. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes that I can’t wait to share with you. Trust me, you’re going to love it!

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs Ground Chicken
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• 3/4 cup Pine Nuts, toasted
• 1 small Yellow Onion, chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp Ground Cardamom
• 1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground Cloves
• 1/2 tsp Ground Sumac
• 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp Paprika
• 3/4 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, minced
• 1 cup Plain Yogurt
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 clove Garlic, minced (for the yogurt sauce)
• 1 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin (for the yogurt sauce)
• Juice of 1 Lemon
• 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt (for the yogurt sauce)
• 1 tsp Fresh Parsley, minced (for garnish)
• Pitas, for serving
• Red Onion, thinly sliced, for serving
• Tomato, cut into wedges, for serving

How to Prepare Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce

Alright, let’s dive into the delightful process of making Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce! It’s pretty straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar by the end of it.

First things first, you’ll want to toast those pine nuts. Grab a dry skillet and heat it over medium heat. Toss the pine nuts in and keep stirring for about 5 minutes until they’re fragrant and golden. This step is essential for unlocking their rich flavor! Once toasted, transfer them to a food processor along with the chopped onion and fresh parsley, and blitz them until they’re finely chopped but not pureed.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, the blitzed mixture, and all the spices—don’t forget to sprinkle in that kosher salt! This is where the magic begins, so mix everything together thoroughly until well combined. I like to use my hands for this—just make sure to wash them before and after!

Now, it’s time to shape the koftas. Grab a 3-tablespoon measure and scoop out the mixture, forming it into small oval-shaped patties. Set them aside on a plate while you heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. You want that oil shimmering before adding the koftas.

Carefully place the koftas in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. You’ll know they’re ready to turn when they form a nice golden crust, which should take about 5 minutes. Flip them gently and cook for another 10 minutes, turning occasionally to get that beautiful sear all around. If they start to look too crispy, don’t hesitate to lower the heat to medium.

While the koftas are cooking, whip up that refreshing yogurt sauce! In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt, minced garlic, cumin, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir and pop it in the fridge to chill.

Once the koftas are beautifully browned and cooked through, serve them up with that luscious yogurt sauce drizzled on top, alongside sliced red onions, quartered tomatoes, and warm pitas. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful feast!

FAQs about Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce

Q1: Can I make the kofta mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to shape the koftas right before cooking for the best texture.

Q2: What can I substitute for pine nuts?
If pine nuts aren’t available, you can use chopped walnuts or almonds. They’ll still add a delightful crunch and flavor to your Chicken Kofta.

Q3: Is it possible to grill the kofta instead of pan-frying?
Definitely! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor. Just make sure to preheat your grill and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Q4: How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the kofta mixture. Just a little goes a long way!

Q5: What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover kofta is fantastic in wraps or salads. Just reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave, and enjoy the flavors anew!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The blend of spices, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant taste that dances on your palate.
• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and a refreshing yogurt sauce, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices and add your favorite veggies; make it your own!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it with colorful sides like tomatoes and red onions for a beautiful, appetizing dish.

Tips for Success

To make your Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce truly shine, here are a few pro tips:

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the kofta ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your kofta are cooked through to 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness!
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. A bit of smoked paprika or chili powder can add an exciting twist.
• Resting Time: Let the kofta rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain moisture before serving.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce, the options are endless! I love to pair it with warm, fluffy pitas for wrapping up those juicy koftas. You can also add a fresh salad on the side—think crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil with lemon juice for brightness.

For a heartier option, consider serving it with fragrant rice pilaf or couscous tossed with herbs. And don’t forget those vibrant sides like pickled vegetables or sautéed greens; they add a burst of color and flavor to your plate. Trust me, these sides will take your meal to the next level!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce is a breeze! Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days, which is perfect for quick meals later on.

When it’s time to enjoy those delicious koftas again, gently reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even warming. If you prefer, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes until heated through. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out! Serve with a fresh dollop of yogurt sauce and enjoy the flavors all over again!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for one serving of Chicken Kofta with Yogurt Sauce, which includes one kofta along with the yogurt sauce and vegetables:

• Calories: 583
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 203mg
• Sodium: 897mg
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 46g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Enjoy this delicious dish knowing it’s both flavorful and nourishing!

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