If you are looking for a dish that brings irresistible crunch, bold spices, and creamy coolness all in one bite, then you have to try the Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss. This Middle Eastern-inspired marvel combines juicy, tender chicken kofta grilled to perfection with a luscious garlic-infused yogurt sauce that dances on your tongue. Every forkful offers a perfect symphony of smoky, herby, and tangy flavors that will have you dreaming about your next meal long after the last bite. Trust me, once you make this at home, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the delicious Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss is surprisingly simple with just a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s adding moisture, smokiness, or that vibrant herbal note that brings the dish to life.
- Ground chicken: Lean and tender, it forms the base of our kofta, keeping things light but juicy.
- Onion (finely grated): Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that balances the spices perfectly.
- Garlic (minced): A powerhouse flavor that pops both in the kofta and the yogurt sauce.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Brings a burst of fresh, earthy brightness that enlivens every bite.
- Ground cumin: Provides warm, nutty undertones essential to Middle Eastern cuisine.
- Ground coriander: Adds citrusy hints that make the flavors sparkle.
- Smoked paprika: Delivers smoky depth and gorgeous color to the kofta.
- Ground cinnamon: A surprising but delightful touch, lending subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Cayenne pepper: Just enough heat to awaken your palate without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance every flavor note.
- Olive oil: For brushing koftas to help them crisp up beautifully on the grill.
- Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy star of our garlic yogurt bliss sauce, tangy and smooth.
- Lemon juice: Adds that refreshing zing that brightens the sauce and the entire dish.
- Fresh dill (chopped): Herbaceous and slightly sweet, it perfectly complements the garlic yogurt.
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers: Essential for shaping and grilling the koftas evenly.
How to Make Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture
Start by combining your ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and all the warming spices—cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and pepper—in a large bowl. Mixing everything thoroughly ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the texture tender so your koftas stay juicy after grilling.
Step 2: Shape the Koftas
Divide the seasoned mixture into eight even portions. Take each portion and carefully mold it around a skewer into an elongated meatball shape, about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick. This shape allows for even cooking and a satisfying grilled crust. Once shaped, brush each kofta lightly with olive oil—this small step is your secret weapon for that crispy exterior everyone will rave about.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Heat your grill to medium-high and place the koftas directly over the heat. Let them cook about 4 to 5 minutes on one side until they develop a perfect charred crust, then flip and repeat. When the internal temperature hits 165°F, your koftas are ready — juicy on the inside with a satisfyingly crisp exterior. Trust me, that contrast is what makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 4: Whip Up the Garlic Yogurt Bliss
While the koftas are grilling, mix together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and seasoning. This creamy sauce is what softens the spice and smoke palette with cool, tangy bliss. Whisk until smooth, and set it aside to let all the flavors marry beautifully.
How to Serve Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes are essential to elevate your dish presentation and flavor balance. Consider sprinkling extra chopped parsley or dill over the koftas for vibrant color and a fresh herbal kick. A few lemon wedges on the side brighten up the plate and add zesty fun at the table. Toasted sesame seeds can also add a lovely nutty crunch.
Side Dishes
A meal this flavorful deserves complementary sides. Serve your Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss alongside warm pita bread or flatbread to help scoop up every last bit of sauce. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice keeps the palate fresh and light. For a heartier option, fluffy couscous or herbed rice works perfectly with all the spices.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or make weeknight dinners special, try serving your koftas as part of a mezze platter with hummus, olives, pickled vegetables, and tabbouleh. Alternatively, stack koftas in pita pockets with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a generous dollop of your garlic yogurt bliss for an irresistible sandwich. Skewers also make fun finger foods for parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover koftas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the garlic yogurt sauce separate to maintain its bright flavor and texture. When ready to eat, simply reheat the koftas gently so they stay tender without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked koftas formed on skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and grill as usual for fresh-from-the-grill results.
Reheating
For reheating cooked koftas, grill them briefly on medium heat or warm in a hot oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the crisp texture. Reheat the garlic yogurt sauce separately at room temperature or chilled.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean substitute and will still deliver great flavor and texture. Just be careful not to overcook, as it tends to dry out faster.
How spicy is the Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat that wakes up the palate without overwhelming it. If you prefer milder kofta, feel free to reduce or omit the cayenne altogether.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem! You can cook the koftas under the broiler or use a stovetop grill pan to achieve delicious char and crispiness.
Can I make the garlic yogurt sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the sauce a few hours ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
How do I prevent koftas from sticking to the skewers?
Using metal skewers or soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents sticking and burning. Additionally, make sure to brush the koftas with olive oil before grilling.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about the combination of smoky, crispy grilled chicken paired with a cool, garlicky yogurt sauce. The Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss is a recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a feast of vibrant textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving family, impressing friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make it your own—you’ll be so glad you did.
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Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a flavorful and juicy Crispy Grilled Chicken Kofta served with a creamy garlic yogurt bliss sauce. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish features spiced ground chicken skewers grilled to perfection, offering a delightful smoky and tender bite. Perfect for summer grilling or an easy weeknight dinner, paired with warm pita and fresh salad.
Ingredients
Chicken Kofta
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers
Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, taking care not to overmix to keep the kofta tender.
- Shape the Koftas: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion onto a metal or soaked wooden skewer, forming elongated meatballs approximately 4 inches long and 1 inch thick. Lightly brush each kofta with olive oil to promote crisping during grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a good sear and even cooking.
- Grill the Koftas: Place the chicken koftas on the preheated grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully to achieve a nice char on the exterior. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce: While grilling, mix the plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Serve the hot, crispy grilled chicken kofta paired generously with the garlic yogurt sauce for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy with warm pita bread and a simple cucumber-tomato salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, add a pinch of sumac or smoked chili powder to the kofta mix.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper.
- If an outdoor grill isn’t available, cook the koftas under a broiler or on a stovetop grill pan.
- The garlic yogurt sauce can be prepared ahead of time to let the flavors meld.
- Serve with warm pita bread and a simple cucumber tomato salad for a complete meal.
