Greek Chicken Meatballs

Greek Chicken Meatballs offer a delicious, Mediterranean twist on the classic meatball. Packed with vibrant flavors like oregano, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, these meatballs are perfect for a light yet filling meal. They are baked to perfection and served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce or alongside a Greek salad, making them ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a healthy meal prep option. The flavors of the Mediterranean, combined with the lean protein from chicken, make this dish both flavorful and nutritious.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken (lean)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 egg
• Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

For the Tzatziki Sauce (optional):

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

• • In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, red onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and the egg.
  • Mix the ingredients together until fully combined, but avoid over-mixing as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

• • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
  • Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

• • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

• • While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve

• • Serve the Greek chicken meatballs with the prepared tzatziki sauce. These meatballs are also delicious with a side of rice, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad.

Cooking Note:

To ensure the meatballs stay moist, avoid overcooking. Ground chicken can dry out easily, so be sure to remove them from the oven as soon as they reach the proper internal temperature.

Serving Suggestions:

Greek Chicken Meatballs can be served in a variety of ways:

• In a Pita: Serve the meatballs in a warm pita bread with fresh veggies and a generous dollop of tzatziki.
• With a Salad: Pair them with a traditional Greek salad filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
• On a Grain Bowl: Serve them over a bed of quinoa or couscous with some roasted vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks and a side of tzatziki for dipping.

Tips:

• For extra moisture and flavor, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meatball mixture.
• Feel free to substitute ground turkey or lamb for the chicken to create a variation on this dish.
• You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. When ready to use, simply bake from frozen for a few extra minutes.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 250 per serving (without tzatziki)
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 550mg

Variations:

1. Lamb Meatballs: Swap the chicken for ground lamb to give the meatballs a richer, more traditional Greek flavor.
2. Spicy Version: Add some chopped chili or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular ones to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
4. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use mashed chickpeas and feta instead of ground chicken, and add a bit of flour to bind the mixture.

FAQs:

1. Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze very well. After cooking, allow them to cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

2. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
If you’re avoiding breadcrumbs, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers, almond flour, or oats to bind the meatball mixture together.

3. Can I cook these meatballs in a skillet instead of baking them?
Yes, you can pan-fry the meatballs in a little olive oil over medium heat. Cook them for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and fully cooked inside.

Conclusion:

Greek Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors in a simple, healthy, and delicious dish. The combination of ground chicken, fresh herbs, and feta cheese gives these meatballs a unique flavor profile that’s both light and satisfying. Whether served as an appetizer, in a pita, or with a salad, these meatballs are versatile and easy to make. They’re perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd at your next family gathering. Paired with the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite!

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