Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

Greek Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful twist on the classic meatball. Infused with Mediterranean herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients, these meatballs are a delightful combination of juicy chicken and zesty, aromatic flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a Mediterranean feast, Greek Chicken Meatballs bring a refreshing and satisfying taste to any table. These meatballs are both lighter and healthier than their beef or pork counterparts, making them a perfect choice for a delicious yet nutritious meal.

What sets these meatballs apart is their incredible flavor profile, achieved by using ingredients like feta cheese, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs such as oregano and parsley. When paired with a refreshing cucumber yogurt dip, these Greek Chicken Meatballs are sure to impress. This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for meal prep, dinner parties, or even casual weeknight meals.

In this guide, you will find step-by-step instructions to help you create these juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs. Whether you choose to bake, fry, or sauté them, you’ll find that these meatballs are both versatile and easy to make. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to bring the Mediterranean to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Greek Chicken Meatballs

• Bold Mediterranean Flavors: With ingredients like garlic, lemon, feta, and oregano, these meatballs are packed with bright, herby flavors that transport you straight to Greece.
• Healthier Option: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are a lighter alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs, but they are still juicy and full of flavor.
• Versatile: Greek Chicken Meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a snack with a yogurt dip, alongside a Greek salad, or wrapped in pita bread with tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired sandwich.
• Quick and Easy to Make: These meatballs come together quickly, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights. Plus, they can be made ahead and stored for later meals.
• Kid-Friendly: With their mild yet flavorful taste, these meatballs are perfect for kids. They’re easy to eat, and you can pair them with a variety of sauces and sides to cater to everyone’s preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the size of the meatballs and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 14-18g
• Carbohydrates: 3-6g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Greek Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (preferably lean)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired)
• 1 large egg
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying, or more for baking)

For the Cucumber Yogurt Dip (optional but highly recommended):

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup cucumber, finely grated and drained of excess water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg. The egg acts as a binder, helping hold the meatballs together while keeping them moist. The breadcrumbs provide structure and a light texture, while the feta adds a tangy, creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the herbs.

Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, chopped dill (if using), dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the mixture. The garlic and lemon will give these meatballs their signature Mediterranean flavor, while the herbs bring a fresh and aromatic quality.

Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix the ingredients until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as that can make the meatballs tough. The mixture should be moist but not too sticky. If it feels too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to help absorb the moisture.

2. Form the Meatballs

Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Aim for meatballs that are about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. If you prefer larger meatballs, you can make them bigger, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Place the meatballs on a plate or tray, making sure they’re not touching. This will prevent them from sticking together while you cook them.

3. Cook the Meatballs

There are two main ways to cook Greek Chicken Meatballs: frying or baking. You can choose the method that best suits your preferences and time constraints.

• Frying Method: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs in the pan, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook the meatballs in batches. Fry the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning them gently with tongs or a spoon to ensure they are golden brown on all sides. The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
• Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Place the meatballs on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

4. Prepare the Cucumber Yogurt Dip (Optional)

While the meatballs are cooking, you can prepare the cucumber yogurt dip, which pairs wonderfully with the Greek Chicken Meatballs.

To make the dip, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, and fresh dill in a bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The yogurt dip provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory and herby meatballs, making it the perfect accompaniment.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are cooked and the dip is ready, it’s time to serve. Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter and offer the cucumber yogurt dip on the side for dipping. If desired, garnish with additional fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor. These Greek Chicken Meatballs are delicious on their own or paired with your favorite Mediterranean sides, such as a Greek salad, pita bread, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs

• Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Mix the ingredients just enough to combine them, and then stop. This will help keep the meatballs light and tender.
• Moisture is Key: Ground chicken tends to be drier than beef or pork, so adding ingredients like feta cheese and lemon juice will help keep the meatballs moist and flavorful. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little extra olive oil or more lemon juice.
• Shape the Meatballs Evenly: For even cooking, try to make the meatballs the same size. Using a cookie scoop or spoon can help you portion them evenly.
• Cook in Batches: Whether you’re frying or baking the meatballs, avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet. This ensures that the meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden brown crust.
• Make Ahead: These meatballs are great for meal prep. You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake or fry them in a hot pan until they are warmed through.

Variations of Greek Chicken Meatballs

• Spicy Greek Chicken Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the meatball mixture for a little heat. You can also drizzle them with a spicy harissa or hot sauce.
• Greek Chicken Meatballs with Olives: For an extra Mediterranean twist, add chopped Kalamata olives or green olives to the meatball mixture. The olives add a briny, savory flavor that complements the chicken and feta.
• Greek Chicken Meatballs with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Finely chop some sun-dried tomatoes and mix them into the meatball mixture. The tomatoes add a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other Mediterranean ingredients.
• Low-Carb Greek Chicken Meatballs: To make this recipe lower in carbs, use almond flour or coconut flour instead of breadcrumbs, and pair the meatballs with a leafy green salad or roasted vegetables instead of bread.

Storage and Shelf Life

Greek Chicken Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are perfect for meal prepping, as you can make a batch ahead of time and use them throughout the week. To reheat, place the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or heat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Place the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once they are frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or heat in a skillet until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Greek Chicken Meatballs

• Greek Salad: A traditional Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese is the perfect side dish to pair with Greek Chicken Meatballs. The fresh, tangy salad complements the richness of the meatballs.
• Pita Bread: Serve the meatballs with warm pita bread for a delicious, hand-held meal. You can also serve them with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers add a healthy and flavorful side to the meatballs.
• Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf made with herbs and lemon pairs well with Greek Chicken Meatballs and rounds out the meal.
• Hummus: Serve with a side of creamy hummus for a Mediterranean feast.

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Conclusion

Greek Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and healthy take on traditional meatballs, offering bright Mediterranean flavors that are both satisfying and refreshing. With juicy chicken, feta cheese, and a blend of fresh herbs and spices, these meatballs make the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you fry or bake them, they are simple to prepare and easy to customize to your tastes. Serve them with a tangy cucumber yogurt dip and your favorite sides for a complete and delicious meal. Enjoy the Mediterranean flavors right at home with this easy-to-follow recipe!