Grilled Chicken Kofta Skewers with Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Grilled chicken kofta skewers with herbed yogurt sauce are a flavorful and aromatic dish made from seasoned ground chicken shaped onto skewers and grilled until perfectly charred. Served with a cooling yogurt sauce, this recipe offers a balanced combination of warmth, freshness, and richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is both approachable and impressive. The kofta skewers are quick to prepare, cook evenly, and remain juicy due to the carefully balanced seasoning. The herbed yogurt sauce complements the smoky grilled chicken, making this dish suitable for casual dinners, gatherings, or meal preparation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground chicken

  • Onion

  • Garlic

  • Fresh parsley

  • Fresh dill

  • Ground cumin

  • Ground paprika

  • Ground coriander

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Olive oil

  • Wooden or metal skewers

  • Plain Greek yogurt

  • Lemon juice

Directions

  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely grated onion, garlic, parsley, dill, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until evenly combined.

  3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion around a skewer, pressing firmly to adhere.

  4. Brush the kofta lightly with olive oil.

  5. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

  6. Grill the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred on all sides.

  7. In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and finely chopped herbs. Season lightly with salt.

  8. Serve the grilled kofta skewers warm, topped or accompanied by the herbed yogurt sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, cooking time is 12 minutes, and total time is approximately 35 minutes.

Variations

Ground turkey may be substituted for chicken. For additional heat, add ground chili or cayenne pepper to the mixture. The skewers may also be baked at 200°C (400°F) if grilling is not available.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through. The yogurt sauce should be stored separately and consumed within 2 days.

FAQs

Can I prepare the kofta mixture in advance?

Yes, the mixture may be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and stored refrigerated.

How do I prevent the kofta from falling off the skewers?

Ensure the mixture is well chilled and firmly pressed onto the skewers.

Can I cook these skewers indoors?

Yes, a grill pan or non-stick skillet works well for indoor cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, simply reduce or omit any spicy seasonings.

What can I serve with chicken kofta?

They pair well with rice, flatbread, roasted vegetables, or salads.

Can I freeze the kofta?

Yes, uncooked kofta may be frozen for up to 2 months.

What type of yogurt is best for the sauce?

Full-fat Greek yogurt provides the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute yogurt with a dairy-free alternative.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).

Can I add breadcrumbs to the mixture?

Yes, a small amount may be added for a softer texture.

Conclusion

Grilled chicken kofta skewers with herbed yogurt sauce offer a satisfying blend of bold spices and refreshing contrast. This adaptable and reliable recipe is ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Print

Grilled Chicken Kofta Skewers with Herbed Yogurt Sauce

Juicy and flavorful grilled chicken kofta skewers seasoned with aromatic spices and served with a cool, creamy herbed yogurt sauce.

  • Author: Mariem
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale
  • 600 g ground chicken
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced

Instructions

  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
  3. Mix until well combined, then refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  5. Divide mixture evenly and shape around skewers.
  6. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and lightly charred.
  7. Meanwhile, mix yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dill in a small bowl.
  8. Serve grilled kofta hot with herbed yogurt sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Keep hands slightly wet while shaping kofta to prevent sticking.
  • Do not overcook to keep chicken moist.
  • Serve with flatbread, rice, or salad.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg

Keywords: chicken kofta, grilled skewers, yogurt sauce, Middle Eastern chicken

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating