Greek Chicken Meatballs
These tender chicken meatballs are seasoned with Mediterranean herbs, garlic, lemon, and a touch of feta for a burst of flavor. They’re lighter than beef or lamb meatballs but just as satisfying, and they pair beautifully with tzatziki, pita, or rice.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18–20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings:5
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground chicken (breast or thigh, or a mix)
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh dill (or mint), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tbsp red onion, finely grated or minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush with olive oil.
Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta, herbs, garlic, egg, onion, oregano, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overwork the meat).
Form meatballs: Roll into ~1-inch balls (about 20). Place on the prepared sheet.
Bake: Cook for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Alternative: Pan-fry in a skillet with olive oil for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
Serve: With tzatziki, pita, Greek salad, or rice.
Serving Suggestions
In a pita wrap with tzatziki, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion (like a gyro).
Over Greek lemon rice or couscous with roasted veggies.
As a party appetizer with toothpicks and tzatziki dip.
Notes & Tips
Chicken thighs make juicier meatballs than breasts.
If mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Chill mixture for 15 minutes before shaping for easier handling.
You can freeze raw or cooked meatballs for quick meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly.
Q: Can I air fry them?
Yes — 400°F (200°C) for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
Skip the feta or replace with a vegan cheese alternative.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 250
Protein: 25g
Fat: 13g
Carbs: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 380mg