Name: 30-Minute Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Spiced Meatballs and Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; ¼ cup plain, unseasoned breadcrumbs; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon coriander; ½ teaspoon allspice; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 3 reviews

If you are craving something wholesome, packed with flavor, and speedy to whip up, then this 30-Minute Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Spiced Meatballs and Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. These tender chicken koftas are beautifully seasoned with a blend of warm spices and fresh herbs, baked to juicy perfection, and complemented perfectly by a tangy, creamy yogurt sauce infused with lemon and dill. This recipe comes together quickly on busy nights, yet feels like a special dish you’ll be excited to share with family or friends. Once you try these kebabs stuffed in a warm pita with crisp salad and the luscious sauce, you’ll understand why they’re about to become a new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate in the center holds a large pile of pale pink ground meat, softly textured in long thin strands layered loosely. Surrounding the plate on a wooden table are five small glass bowls: at the top, finely chopped green herbs; to the top right, a little salt and black pepper; on the bottom right, a bowl of light beige breadcrumbs; on the bottom left, a mixture of colorful spices including red, brown, and white powders; and to the left, a small amount of light golden oil. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this 30-Minute Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Spiced Meatballs and Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe is a breeze, thanks to its handful of simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a starring role — from the aromatic spices that create that signature Mediterranean vibe to the fresh parsley that adds both color and brightness. Together, these components blend for irresistible taste, texture, and visual appeal.

1 pound ground chicken: Lean and mild, it forms the tender base for your koftas and grills beautifully without drying out.
¼ cup plain, unseasoned breadcrumbs: Helps bind the kebabs so they hold their shape, and adds just the right amount of texture.
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant note that perfectly balances the spices and meatiness.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the meat juicy and enhances the overall flavor with its fruity richness.
1 teaspoon coriander: Offers a citrusy, slightly nutty warmth that complements the chicken beautifully.
½ teaspoon allspice: Brings depth and a hint of sweetness, elevating the flavor profile of the meatballs.
½ teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness with a subtle smokiness for authentic Mediterranean taste.
½ teaspoon paprika: Provides a mild heat and lovely color to your koftas.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savoriness without the need to chop fresh onions.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies flavor with a mellow garlic kick.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Ensures all spices and ingredients pop with balanced seasoning.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery bite for well-rounded taste.

How to Make 30-Minute Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Spiced Meatballs and Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Skewers

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak about eight of them in water for at least 15 minutes. This simple step prevents the skewers from burning while the koftas bake, so your kebabs come out perfectly without unwanted char.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, olive oil, and all of your spices. Use your hands or a spoon to blend everything evenly — you want the flavors to marry together so each bite bursts with seasoning and fresh herb goodness.

Step 3: Shape the Koftas

Divide the mixture into eight equal parts. Take one portion at a time and roll it into a ball using the palms of your hands. Then, gently shape the ball into an oval, creating that classic kofta silhouette. Place each formed meatball on a foil-lined, nonstick baking sheet, leaving enough room between them.

Step 4: Add Skewers and Bake

Once your koftas are formed, insert a soaked skewer horizontally through the base of each meatball. This makes flipping easier and gives you that authentic kebab presentation. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning the kebabs over halfway through. Look for a lightly golden exterior and an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure juicy, fully cooked meat.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

While the koftas bake, whip up the lemon dill yogurt sauce by mixing plain yogurt with fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. This cool, tangy sauce contrasts the warm spices of the meatballs beautifully and brings the whole dish together.

How to Serve 30-Minute Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Spiced Meatballs and Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe

The image shows six grilled meat skewers on a large white plate with a white marbled surface underneath. Each skewer has an oval-shaped grilled meat patty with a light brown color and grill marks, topped with a dollop of white creamy sauce and a small green dill sprig. Two lemon wedges in light yellow with visible texture rest on the plate, one near the top center and one on the bottom right. A small round white bowl on the left holds extra creamy sauce with green herbs mixed in, and a green dill sprig is visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your presentation pop and add extra layers of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or mint over the kebabs right before serving. A few thin slices of red onion or a dusting of sumac also bring wonderful freshness and subtle zing.

Side Dishes

These kofta kebabs love company! Pair them with crisp cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil, warm pita bread for wrapping, or a side of fluffy basmati rice to soak up every bit of that lemon dill yogurt sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad work beautifully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, stuff the kebabs into warm pita pockets along with your favorite fresh herbs and veggies. Or, serve them family-style on a large platter with bowls of sauce, chopped salad, and flatbread, inviting everyone to build their own delicious plates. These 30-Minute Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Spiced Meatballs and Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe is as versatile as it is tasty!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover koftas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick lunches or dinners that feel just as special as when first cooked.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these koftas freeze wonderfully. Place them on a tray in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. This makes quick, flavorful meals on demand a total breeze.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the koftas gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can dry them out. Pair again with your lemon dill yogurt sauce and fresh pita for a satisfying meal.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield similarly tender and flavorful koftas. Just watch the cooking time and moisture level, as turkey can sometimes dry out faster than chicken.

How do I prevent my koftas from falling apart?

The breadcrumbs and olive oil help bind the mixture, so be sure to include those in the recipe. Also, shaping the koftas firmly and chilling them briefly before baking can help them hold their shape better during cooking.

Can I grill these kebabs instead of baking?

Yes! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor and char to your koftas. Just preheat the grill to medium-high and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning carefully to cook evenly on all sides.

What if I don’t have fresh dill for the sauce?

If fresh dill isn’t on hand, dried dill can be used in a pinch, though use it sparingly since it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh mint or parsley provide a lovely, fresh twist to the yogurt sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as written includes breadcrumbs, which typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or a crushed gluten-free cracker or oat blend. The spices and yogurt sauce are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This 30-Minute Chicken Kofta Kebabs with Spiced Meatballs and Lemon Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe truly shines in its balance of quick prep time and incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or welcoming guests, these kebabs bring warmth, heartiness, and vibrancy to the table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.