Greek Chicken Meatballs: Savor the Mediterranean Magic in Every Juicy Bite!

Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with these incredibly flavorful and juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs. Bursting with fresh herbs, savory spices, and a hint of zesty lemon, these meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant addition to your mezze platter, especially when paired with a cool, refreshing tzatziki sauce. Get ready to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients to create these irresistible Greek-inspired delights. Each component contributes to the authentic flavor profile that makes these meatballs truly special.

1 lb (450g) ground chicken
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

 

Preparation Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly tender and flavorful Greek Chicken Meatballs. Don’t forget to prepare a batch of creamy tzatziki sauce for dipping!

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped red onion, fresh breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
2. Mix Gently: Mix all ingredients gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs. You should yield approximately 20-24 meatballs.
4. Heat Skillet: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can steam rather than brown the meatballs.
6. Brown and Cook Through: Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve: Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and serve hot with your desired accompaniments.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

Lemon-Herb Glaze: Whisk together lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of dill to toss the cooked meatballs in for an extra citrusy kick.
Skewer Surprise: Thread the meatballs onto skewers with cherry tomatoes, cucumber chunks, and Kalamata olives for a delightful appetizer.
Pita Pockets: Serve the meatballs tucked inside warm pita bread with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a generous dollop of tzatziki.
Mediterranean Bowl: Create a vibrant bowl with quinoa or couscous, roasted vegetables, and these meatballs as the protein.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for those who enjoy a little heat.

Reviews

“Absolutely Divine!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
By Maria P.
“These Greek Chicken Meatballs are a staple in my home now! So easy to make and the flavors are just incredible. My kids devour them. The feta is a must!”

“Perfect Weeknight Meal” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
By David L.
“I’m always looking for healthy and quick dinners, and this recipe hits the mark. Paired it with a fresh Greek salad and some homemade tzatziki. Will definitely make again!”

“Authentic Taste” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
By Sophia R.
“Coming from a Greek background, I’m picky about Mediterranean recipes. These meatballs truly capture the essence of Greek flavors without being too heavy. Fantastic!”

FAQ

Q: Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?

A: Yes, you can! Arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until cooked through, turning halfway.

Q: Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can mix and form the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Q: What can I serve these with besides tzatziki?

A: They’re great with hummus, a fresh tomato and cucumber salad, rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or warm pita bread. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is also wonderful!

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

A: Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield equally delicious results. Ensure it’s not too lean to maintain juiciness.

Q: Are these meatballs freezer-friendly?

A: Yes, once cooked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Meatballs are a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying. With their vibrant flavors and tender texture, they’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main course, don’t forget that refreshing tzatziki sauce to complete the authentic Greek experience. Enjoy every bite of these delightful meatballs!

Recipe Note

For the juiciest Greek Chicken Meatballs, avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Gentle handling ensures a tender texture, and a quick pan-fry gives them a beautiful golden crust while keeping them moist inside.