Mediterranean Chicken & Zucchini Meatballs
These Mediterranean Chicken & Zucchini Meatballs are moist, flavorful, and naturally light. Lean ground chicken is combined with finely grated zucchini (for juiciness), olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Baked or pan-seared to golden perfection, they’re tender inside with a delicate crust—never dry. Serve with yogurt sauce, salad, or grains for an elegant yet easy meal.
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 18–22 minutes
Total: ~35 minutes
Serves: 3–4
Ingredients
Meatballs
500 g (1 lb) ground chicken
1 medium zucchini, finely grated
1 small onion or 2 green onions, very finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large egg
⅓ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill or oregano, finely chopped
¾ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Mediterranean Add-Ins
2 tbsp grated parmesan or feta
Zest of ½ lemon
Instructions
Prep the Zucchini
Grate zucchini finely.
Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel or hands (important for juicy, not watery meatballs).
Mix the Meatball Base
In a large bowl, add chicken, zucchini, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently with hands or a spoon until just combined (don’t overmix).
Shape
Roll into golf-ball-size meatballs (about 16).
Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking.
Cook (Choose One Method)
Bake (Healthiest & Easy)
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place meatballs on a lined baking tray.
Bake 18–22 minutes, turning once, until lightly golden and cooked through.
Pan-Sear
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Cook meatballs, turning gently, until golden and cooked (about 10–12 minutes).
Serving Ideas
With lemony Greek yogurt sauce
Over herbed quinoa or bulgur
Alongside cucumber–tomato salad
Wrapped in whole-grain pita with greens
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
Squeeze zucchini well—this is key.
Use a light hand when mixing to keep them tender.
Chicken dries easily; remove as soon as cooked.
Rest meatballs 3 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these spicy?
No—completely mild and family-friendly.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes. Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Q: Can I make them ahead?
Yes. Shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours, or freeze uncooked up to 2 months.
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely—results are very similar.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~260 kcal
Protein: ~26 g
Fat: ~14 g
Carbohydrates: ~6 g
Fiber: ~1.5 g