Tave Kosi is a traditional Albanian dish, often compared to a gratin. Chicken is roasted before being topped with a mixture of yogurt, eggs, and melted butter. The slow cooking results in a creamy, slightly tangy, and very pleasant texture. It's a simple dish, originating from the countryside, where sheep's milk yogurt plays a central role. The recipe requires few ingredients, but the quality of the yogurt makes all the difference. There are no strong spices, only salt, pepper, and sometimes a touch of oregano. The strength of Tave Kosi lies in its mildness and rich, milky flavor. Served piping hot, it pairs well with rice or a green salad. This recipe is naturally gluten-free , making it perfect for those with intolerances.

Albanian chicken with yogurt (Tave Kosi)

Albania

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Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 5 Special regime:

Naturally gluten-free

Cooking method: Traditional

Ingredients

Servings

• 800g of chicken pieces ( I used breasts but mostly thighs)
• 500g of plain yogurt ( ideally sheep's milk or Greek yogurt)
• 3 eggs
• 40g of butter
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 2 crushed garlic cloves
• 1 tsp dried oregano (optional but traditional in the south)
• Salt, pepper
• Gluten-free side dish: white rice, steamed potatoes or salad.

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Heat the oil in a pan and brown the chicken on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in an ovenproof dish.
   
4. Melt the butter in the same pan, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute over low heat.
   
5. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, eggs, garlic butter, and oregano.
   
6. Season lightly with salt and generously with pepper.
7. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the dish.
   
8. Bake for 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sauce has set.
9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
   
10. Serve hot with rice, potatoes or salad.

Note

The yogurt should not be too runny → choose a thick yogurt to prevent the sauce from separating.

If the top browns too quickly: cover with baking paper.

Keywords: gluten-free tave kosi, Albanian yogurt chicken, traditional Albanian recipe, Balkan cuisine, easy chicken recipe, sheep's milk yogurt, GlutenEvasion Albania

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