Description
Succulent Greek chicken meatballs offer a Mediterranean culinary journey with zesty herbs and tangy tzatziki. Juicy, perfectly seasoned meat combines classic Greek flavors that will transport diners straight to a charming Athens taverna.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Protein and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground chicken (93% lean)
- 1 large egg
Herbs, Spices, and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Structural and Additional Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
- ⅓ cup red onion, diced
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salad Base Ingredients:
- 3 hearts romaine, chopped
- 1 pint (473 milliliters) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium English cucumber, diced
- 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
Tzatziki Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (0%, 2%, or 5%)
- ½ cup cucumber, grated on a box grater
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick cooking.
- Combine ground chicken, beaten egg, panko breadcrumbs, finely diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large mixing bowl, gently mixing until ingredients are just incorporated.
- Using clean hands or a small scoop, shape the meat mixture into 18-20 uniform meatballs, ensuring consistent size for even cooking.
- Arrange the meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to promote proper heat circulation.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing fully cooked chicken.
- For stovetop cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear meatballs on all sides for 3 minutes to develop a golden crust, then reduce heat and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes.
- Alternative air fryer method: Preheat to 380°F (193°C), lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray, and cook meatballs for 8-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare tzatziki by grating cucumber and thoroughly removing excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Combine grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl, mixing well.
- Refrigerate tzatziki for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop.
- Assemble salad by creating a base of crisp romaine lettuce in individual serving bowls.
- Top lettuce with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Place freshly cooked meatballs on top of the salad and generously drizzle with prepared tzatziki sauce before serving.
Notes
- Explore the vibrant Mediterranean flavors packed into these juicy chicken meatballs bursting with fresh herbs and zesty seasonings.
- Customize the recipe by swapping ground chicken with turkey or lamb for a unique protein twist that keeps dinner exciting.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time and store meatballs in the refrigerator for up to two days, making weeknight meals a breeze.
- Achieve perfect meatball texture by gently mixing ingredients and avoiding overworking the meat, which can lead to tough results.
- Maximize flavor by using fresh herbs like parsley and oregano instead of dried alternatives for a more authentic Greek taste profile.
- Serve these protein-packed meatballs over salad, in pita wraps, or alongside roasted vegetables for a versatile meal option.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg