Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

If you’re looking for a dish that combines amazing flavor with a dash of warmth and comfort, you’ve come to the right place! These Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are not just another recipe; they are a delightful experience. Each bite bursts with fresh herbs and spices, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The cool tzatziki sauce adds the perfect refreshing touch, making this meal a favorite in our home.

I love how versatile this recipe is—it works wonderfully as an appetizer or a main dish. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these meatballs will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these flavorful meatballs, making mealtime fun for everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and simply cook them when you’re ready to eat!
• Deliciously healthy: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is a wholesome choice for any night of the week.
• Mediterranean flavors: Enjoy the vibrant tastes of Greek cuisine right at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Using simple, wholesome ingredients makes this dish not only easy to prepare but also comforting and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 1 clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some delicious variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chicken for a different twist.
• Add spice: Mix in some red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like things spicy.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro for unique flavor profiles.
• Veggie boost: Add finely chopped spinach or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.

How to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by preparing the chicken meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh mint, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This combination brings together all those lovely flavors that make these meatballs so special!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the egg to the mixture and gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture; doing so can lead to dense meatballs. We want them light and juicy!

Step 3: Shape Them Up

Shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs—aiming for about 20 depending on your size preference. The fun part is shaping them!

Step 4: Frying Time

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches—this prevents overcrowding which helps them cook evenly.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden

Cook the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes per side. Turn them carefully until they’re golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). The smell will be irresistible!

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. We want them crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside!

Step 7: Make Tzatziki Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (with excess water squeezed out), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and black pepper. This sauce is what takes your meal from great to fantastic!

Step 8: Mix It Up

Mix everything together until well combined. Taste it! Feel free to adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if desired.

Step 9: Chill Out

Chill the tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Now it’s time for my favorite part—serving! Present your juicy Greek chicken meatballs alongside that refreshing tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Making the perfect meatball is an art, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve that juicy and flavorful result every time!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant color and aroma that make your meatballs irresistible.

• Don’t overmix: Gently combining the ingredients helps maintain the tenderness of the meatballs. Overworking them can lead to a denser texture that’s less enjoyable.

• Let them rest after cooking: Allowing your meatballs to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, making them even more succulent when served.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different; feel free to tweak the amount of salt, lemon juice, or herbs based on your preferences for a personalized touch.

• Experiment with baking: If you’re looking for a healthier option, try baking the meatballs at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes instead of frying. This method reduces oil while still keeping them deliciously moist!

How to Serve Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

These juicy Greek chicken meatballs are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint on top adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances both presentation and flavor.

• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their meatballs, adding brightness and enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil brings a crunchy contrast to the tender meatballs.

• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This light and nutritious salad made with quinoa, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon complements the richness of the meatballs while adding a healthy twist.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted with olive oil and herbs offer wonderful flavor diversity alongside your juicy chicken meatballs.

• Pita Bread: Soft pita pockets are perfect for scooping up tzatziki sauce or wrapping around juicy meatballs for a handheld delight!

Each of these elements adds its own unique flair to your meal while ensuring that your Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki shine as the star of your dinner table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Arrange the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
• Serve hot with fresh tzatziki sauce!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for these meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.

How do I make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Everything else remains the same!

What can I serve with Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve them over rice or quinoa for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki! They’re not only full of flavor but also easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. Enjoy creating memories around the table as you savor every bite. Happy cooking!