Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki

If you’re looking for a light yet flavorful meal that is packed with Mediterranean flair, these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki are the perfect choice. This recipe brings together juicy, tender chicken meatballs seasoned with a medley of Greek-inspired herbs and spices, served alongside a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. The meatballs are baked to perfection, making them healthier without compromising on taste.

The homemade tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and a touch of lemon juice, complements the savory meatballs beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. These meatballs are great for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer for your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Packed with Mediterranean Flavors

The combination of fresh herbs, feta cheese, and Greek spices brings a burst of authentic Mediterranean flavor to the dish, making every bite delightful.

2. Light and Healthy

Using ground chicken for the meatballs makes this recipe a leaner option, while the tzatziki adds a cool, refreshing element without the heaviness of traditional sauces.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 20-25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

4. Versatile Serving Options

These meatballs can be served in a variety of ways—alongside a salad, in a pita for a sandwich, or with a side of roasted vegetables. They’re also perfect as an appetizer for parties.

5. Fresh Homemade Tzatziki

This recipe includes a simple, homemade tzatziki sauce that’s quick to make and elevates the dish with its creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken
• Breadcrumbs
• Red onion
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Dried parsley
• Salt and pepper
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh mint
• Egg

For the Tzatziki:

• Greek yogurt
• Cucumber
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For some heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the meatballs or tzatziki sauce.
• Use Beef or Lamb: If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute the ground chicken with ground beef or lamb for a richer flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and substitute with almond flour to make the meatballs lower in carbs.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, dried oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, chopped mint, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

Step 5: Make the Tzatziki

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out any excess water), garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and serve with the homemade tzatziki on the side.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overwork the Meatball Mixture: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture, as it can result in tough meatballs.
• Squeeze Out the Cucumber: Make sure to squeeze out the excess water from the grated cucumber before adding it to the tzatziki sauce, as too much moisture can make the sauce watery.
• Use Lean Ground Chicken: For the best texture and flavor, use lean ground chicken. If you prefer a juicier meatball, you can opt for a higher fat content.
• Shape Uniform Meatballs: For even cooking, try to make the meatballs uniform in size.
• Serve Hot or Cold: These meatballs can be enjoyed hot from the oven or chilled as leftovers. They taste great both ways!

How to Serve

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki are versatile and can be served in many ways. You can serve them with a side of roasted vegetables, toss them in a salad, or place them in a pita with fresh veggies for a Mediterranean-style sandwich. They also make an excellent appetizer for parties, served with the tzatziki for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Freezing

These meatballs can be frozen both cooked or uncooked. If freezing cooked meatballs, let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat leftover meatballs by placing them in the oven or microwave. If frozen, they can be baked directly from frozen or thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and works well in this recipe.

2. Can I make the tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes, tzatziki can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. Can I grill the meatballs instead of baking them?

Yes, you can grill the meatballs on a grill pan or outdoor grill for a smoky flavor. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly.

4. How can I make the tzatziki spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some finely chopped jalapeños, or a bit of hot sauce to the tzatziki for a spicy twist.

5. Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tzatziki, but the homemade version is fresher and more flavorful.

6. Can I freeze the tzatziki?

Tzatziki is best served fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. The texture may change slightly upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

7. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

8. Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?

Fresh mint works best for this recipe, but if you need to use dried mint, use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.

9. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Be sure to use an egg as a binder and avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, which can cause them to fall apart.

10. Can I serve these meatballs as an appetizer?

Yes, these meatballs make a fantastic appetizer, especially when paired with the tzatziki for dipping.

Conclusion

These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. With their lean protein, fresh herbs, and tangy sauce, they make a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, a satisfying appetizer, or a flavorful snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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