Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Zesty Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Delight

Tender and juicy, these delectable greek chicken meatballs burst with Mediterranean flavors that dance on your palate.

Packed with aromatic herbs and zesty spices, this recipe brings the essence of Greece straight to your dinner table.

Crisp on the outside and succulent within, these meatballs offer a delightful twist on traditional protein dishes.

Garlic, oregano, and fresh parsley intermingle to create a mouthwatering blend that elevates each bite.

The combination of ground chicken and classic Greek seasonings ensures a light yet satisfying meal that will transport you to the sunny shores of the Aegean.

Serve these meatballs with tzatziki sauce or over a fresh Greek salad for a complete and unforgettable dining experience that promises to become a new family favorite.

Greek Chicken Meatballs Favorites

  • Quick Weeknight Savior: Whip up these Greek chicken meatballs in minutes, making dinner a breeze for busy families and home cooks looking for a delicious, stress-free meal.
  • Versatile Flavor Explosion: Mix Mediterranean flavors with simple ingredients, creating a dish that can be served over salad, rice, or as a standalone appetizer for gatherings and parties.
  • Healthy Protein Powerhouse: Packed with lean chicken and fresh ingredients, these meatballs offer a nutritious alternative to traditional beef meatballs, perfect for health-conscious eaters seeking a protein-rich meal.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Cook these meatballs easily in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup and making it an ideal recipe for people who want to spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying their meal.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Meatballs

Main Protein:
  • Ground Chicken: Lean protein that forms the base of the meatballs and provides a light, tender texture.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs, Egg: Help hold the meatball mixture together and create a cohesive texture.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic, Salt, Black Pepper, Dried Oregano: Add classic Greek-inspired flavors and depth to the chicken meatballs.
Additional Ingredients for Serving:
  • Romaine Lettuce, Feta Cheese, Cucumber, Tomato, Rice, Tzatziki Sauce: Provide a fresh, Mediterranean-style accompaniment that complements the meatballs.
Cooking Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking the meatballs and creating a golden-brown exterior.

Step-by-Step Greek Chicken Meatballs Instructions

Step 1: Mix Meatball Mixture

Grab a mixing bowl and combine ground chicken with minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and an egg.

Use your hands to blend all ingredients thoroughly until they stick together perfectly.

The mixture should feel slightly tacky and well incorporated.

Step 2: Shape Delectable Morsels

Using clean hands or a cookie scoop, form the chicken mixture into uniform round balls.

Make sure each meatball is compact and similar in size to ensure even cooking.

Aim for golf ball sized portions that will cook consistently.

Step 3: Sizzle and Brown

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.

Gently place the meatballs into the hot pan, allowing space between each one.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, rotating carefully to create a golden brown exterior.

The meatballs should develop a beautiful crispy crust while remaining juicy inside.

Step 4: Verify Doneness

Check the internal temperature of the meatballs using a meat thermometer.

Ensure they reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.

If your skillet is small, cook the meatballs in batches to maintain proper heat and prevent overcrowding.

Step 5: Create Mediterranean Platter

Arrange chopped romaine lettuce on a serving plate.

Top with the freshly cooked meatballs.

Garnish with:
  • Crumbled feta cheese
  • Diced cucumber
  • Chopped tomatoes

Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the top and serve with warm rice on the side.

Enjoy your Greek-inspired culinary creation!

Tips for Flavorful Greek Chicken Meatballs

  • Use light hands when mixing chicken to prevent tough, dense meatballs that can become rubbery.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption without overcooking.
  • Cook meatballs in smaller batches to maintain even heat and achieve perfect golden-brown exterior.
  • Use non-stick skillet or add enough oil to prevent meatballs from sticking and breaking apart during cooking.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or mint to boost traditional Greek meatball taste profile.

Variations for Greek Chicken Meatballs

  • Mediterranean Turkey Meatballs: Replace ground chicken with lean ground turkey for a similar protein-packed alternative, maintaining the Greek-inspired flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Greek Quinoa Balls: Swap chicken for cooked quinoa, mashed chickpeas, and herbs to create a plant-based version that keeps the Mediterranean essence.
  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Option: Skip the rice and serve meatballs directly on crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter, keto-friendly meal that reduces carbohydrate intake.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten-sensitive individuals while preserving the original recipe's taste.

Serving Ideas for Greek Chicken Meatballs

  • Mediterranean Platter Paradise: Create a stunning Greek-inspired spread with meatballs as the centerpiece, surrounded by colorful olives, roasted vegetables, and warm pita bread.
  • Zesty Wrap Adventure: Tuck these juicy chicken meatballs into soft warm pitas with crisp lettuce, tangy tzatziki, and fresh cucumber slices for a quick and delicious handheld meal.
  • Salad Bowl Delight: Transform your meatballs into a protein-packed salad by nestling them over mixed greens, crumbled feta, diced tomatoes, and drizzling with extra tzatziki sauce for added flavor.

Storage Advice for Greek Chicken Meatballs

  • Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between each interval to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of water to maintain moisture.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients for Greek chicken meatballs?

Ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper are the main ingredients that create the authentic Greek flavor and hold the meatballs together.

  • Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This helps the flavors meld and makes meal preparation easier.

  • Are these meatballs healthy?

Greek chicken meatballs are a healthier protein option compared to beef meatballs. They are lower in fat, high in protein, and can be part of a balanced diet when served with fresh vegetables and whole grains.

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Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe


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4.8 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Succulent Greek chicken meatballs dance with Mediterranean flavors, blending herbs and spices into a delightful culinary journey. Tender, juicy bites packed with authentic Greek essence will transport diners straight to the sun-drenched islands of Greece.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 pounds (907 grams) ground chicken

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh dill (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh mint (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1.5 grams) ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1.5 grams) ground oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1 gram) red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 grams) black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon (1 gram) lemon zest

Support Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (40 grams) finely diced red onion
  • 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil (for frying)

Serving Components:

  • chopped romaine
  • feta cheese
  • cucumber (sliced/diced)
  • tomato (sliced)
  • white rice
  • tzatziki sauce

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly blend ground chicken with seasonings in a mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of ingredients using gentle hand-mixing techniques.
  2. Gently shape the mixture into uniform spherical meatballs using a cookie dough scoop or tablespoon, maintaining consistent size for even cooking.
  3. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat, adding a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking and promote golden browning.
  4. Carefully place meatballs into the hot skillet, allowing each side to cook for 3-4 minutes until developing a rich, caramelized exterior and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. If skillet space is limited, cook meatballs in multiple batches to ensure proper heat distribution and avoid overcrowding.
  6. Plate the golden-brown meatballs atop a bed of crisp romaine lettuce, complementing with crumbled feta cheese, diced cucumber, fresh tomatoes, fluffy rice, and a generous dollop of cool tzatziki sauce.

Notes

  • Use cold hands when forming meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking and help maintain a lighter texture.
  • Avoid overmixing the chicken mixture to keep the meatballs tender and prevent them from becoming tough or dense.
  • Test one meatball first to check seasoning before cooking the entire batch, allowing you to adjust salt or herbs if needed.
  • For a gluten-free option, swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the meatballs’ binding and texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 325 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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