Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe: Zingy Mediterranean Magic

Juicy greek chicken meatballs promise a Mediterranean culinary adventure that’ll transport you straight to the sunny shores of athens.

Fragrant herbs and spices dance through each perfectly seasoned bite.

Lean protein meets traditional flavors in this simple yet spectacular dish.

Crisp garlic and fresh parsley create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

Succulent meat combines with zesty lemon and creamy tzatziki for a balanced meal.

These meatballs pack a punch of authentic greek charm without complicated techniques.

Dive into this recipe and savor a taste of greece on your plate.

Greek Chicken Meatballs Bursting With Mediterranean Flavors

• Savor Mediterranean Flavors: Packed with authentic Greek ingredients like feta, oregano, and lemon zest, these meatballs transport your taste buds to a sunny coastal kitchen.
• Quick Weeknight Warrior: Perfect for busy families, these chicken meatballs cook fast and require minimal prep, making dinner stress-free and delicious.
• Versatile Meal Champion: Enjoy as a protein-packed main dish, tossed in pasta, tucked into pita, or served over a crisp salad for endless meal possibilities.
• Healthier Protein Option: Lean ground chicken creates a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs, delivering protein without excess fat.

Ingredients for Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs

• Ground Chicken: A lean protein that provides a light and tender base for the meatballs.
• Feta Cheese: A tangy Greek cheese that adds rich, salty flavor to the meatball mixture.

• Garlic: A pungent ingredient that brings depth and traditional Greek flavor to the meatballs.
• Dried Oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that adds an authentic Greek taste profile.
• Parsley: A fresh herb that provides a bright, green note to the meatball mixture.
• Lemon Zest: A citrusy element that brightens the overall flavor of the meatballs.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: A light, crispy ingredient that helps bind the meatballs and create a tender texture.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall flavor of the meatballs.

• Olive Oil: A traditional Mediterranean cooking fat used for browning and adding a subtle richness to the meatballs.

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs That Impress

Step 1: Blend Chicken Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped garlic, crumbled feta cheese, dried oregano, bright lemon zest, and freshly chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and create a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 2: Incorporate Binding Ingredients

Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs into the chicken mixture. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Gently mix everything together, ensuring the breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and add a delightful texture.

Step 3: Shape Tasty Morsels

Using your hands, roll the seasoned mixture into perfect round meatballs.

Aim for bite-sized spheres approximately the size of a golf ball, roughly 1-2 inches in diameter. Ensure each meatball is compact and uniform.

Step 4: Prepare Cooking Surface

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Pour a generous splash of olive oil, allowing it to heat until it starts to shimmer and dance in the pan.

The oil should be hot but not smoking.

Step 5: Cook Golden Meatballs

Carefully place the meatballs into the heated skillet.

Cook each side for 5-7 minutes, rotating to achieve an even, golden-brown exterior. Ensure the chicken is completely cooked through, with no pink remaining in the center.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the sizzling meatballs to a serving plate. Accompany with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce or a crisp, fresh Greek salad.

These Mediterranean-inspired meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs Every Time

• Ensure the ground chicken is cold when mixing for better texture and binding of ingredients.
• Wet your hands slightly before shaping meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking and create smoother, more uniform balls.
• Test one meatball first to check seasoning, adjusting salt and herbs as needed before cooking the entire batch.
• For a gluten-free version, replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the meatballs' structure.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking to maintain even browning and prevent steaming the meatballs instead of achieving a golden crust.

Flavorful Variations on Greek Chicken Meatballs to Try

• Lamb Variation: Replace ground chicken with ground lamb for a richer, more traditional Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to reduce carbohydrate content and maintain meatball texture.
• Vegetarian Adaptation
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Pairings That Enhance Greek Chicken Meatballs Enjoyment

• Select a zesty Greek white wine from Santorini with bright citrus notes that complement the meatballs' herbal and tangy flavors.
• Create a refreshing side with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and kalamata olives dressed in olive oil and oregano to enhance the Mediterranean profile.
• Prepare a cool yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, garlic, and dill that provides a smooth, tangy counterpoint to the savory chicken meatballs.
• Offer soft, pillowy pita rounds to scoop up meatballs and catch the delicious pan juices, creating a complete and satisfying Greek-inspired meal.

Best Ways to Keep Greek Chicken Meatballs Fresh

• Refrigerator Storage: Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and taste.
• Freezer Preservation: Wrap meatballs individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. They'll maintain quality for up to 2 months when properly sealed.
• Microwave Reheating: Arrange meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature until warmed thoroughly.
• Oven Warming: Preheat oven to 350°F, spread meatballs on a baking sheet, and cover with foil. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they remain moist and tender.

FAQs

• What makes Greek chicken meatballs different from regular meatballs?

Greek chicken meatballs incorporate Mediterranean flavors like feta cheese, oregano, and lemon zest, giving them a unique tangy and herbaceous taste compared to traditional meatball recipes.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute and will work perfectly with the same Greek-inspired seasonings and ingredients in this recipe.

• How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures the chicken is safe to eat and fully cooked through.

Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Greek chicken meatballs bring Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table with zesty herbs and tangy tzatziki. Succulent and packed with authentic Greek spices, these meatballs will transport you to a charming seaside taverna.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (75 g) crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon zest
• 1/2 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsps (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsps (30 ml) olive oil

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Instructions

1. Combine ground chicken with aromatic herbs, crumbled feta, minced garlic, lemon zest, and fresh parsley in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring thorough incorporation of ingredients.
2. Integrate panko breadcrumbs into the mixture, seasoning generously with salt and pepper for balanced flavor profile.
3. Gently form the mixture into uniform spherical meatballs, approximately the size of golf balls, using light pressure to maintain a tender texture.
4. Preheat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat, allowing the surface to become hot and glossy.
5. Carefully place meatballs into the heated skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
6. Cook meatballs for 5-7 minutes per side, rotating periodically to achieve a golden-brown exterior and ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Remove from heat and let rest briefly to redistribute internal juices.
8. Plate the meatballs alongside cool, creamy tzatziki sauce or a crisp Mediterranean-inspired salad for a complete and refreshing meal.

Notes

• Choose lean ground chicken for lighter, healthier meatballs that won’t feel greasy or heavy.
• Chill the meat mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping to help meatballs hold their structure and prevent falling apart during cooking.
• Use a light touch when mixing and forming meatballs to keep them tender and prevent dense, tough texture.
• Customize the recipe by replacing panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version or adding extra herbs like mint for more Mediterranean flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg