Greek Chicken Meatballs With Lemon And Fresh Herbs

The first time I made this Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe was during a family weekend when everyone was craving something light yet flavorful.

I wanted to recreate the Mediterranean dishes we’d fallen in love with during a summer vacation. These meatballs nailed it!

From the tang of lemon zest to the aromatic herbs, every bite brought back those sunny memories. It’s been a hit ever since, and I’m so excited to share it with you today.

How To Make Greek Chicken Meatballs In 35 Minutes

This Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe is simple yet packs a punch of Mediterranean flavor. Here’s a quick look:

Essential Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Course: Main Course or Appetizer
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Yield: 4 servings (makes about 20 meatballs)
  • Calories Per Serving: ~220
greek chicken meatballs
Greek Chicken Meatballs

What Are Greek Chicken Meatballs Made Of?

You’ll need a handful of fresh and pantry staples to make these Greek-inspired chicken meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Substitutions:

  • Ground turkey instead of chicken
  • Parsley if you’re out of dill or mint
  • Lime zest as a stand-in for lemon zest

How Do You Cook Greek Chicken Meatballs?

Step 1: Prepare The Meatball Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Add chopped dill, mint, red onion, garlic, and lemon zest. Mix gently until everything is well combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Shape The Meatballs

  1. Using a cookie dough scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a plate or tray.

Step 3: Cook The Meatballs

  1. In a large skillet, pour some olive oil and heat it over medium.. Once the oil shimmers, add the meatballs in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary).
  2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Use meat thermometer to ensure that inside meat temperature reaches at least…165?

Step 4: Serve And Enjoy

  1. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and let them rest for 2 minutes. Serve warm.

Video Tutorial:

What To Eat With Greek Chicken Meatballs?

You can pair these meatballs as well as they can be eaten alone with:

  • Tzatziki Sauce: For dipping or drizzling.
  • Greek Salad: A refreshing side with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta.
  • Pita Bread: To create a quick wrap.
  • Rice or Quinoa: For a filling meal.
  • Appetizer Platter: Include olives, hummus, and veggies for a crowd-pleasing spread.

Are Chicken Meatballs Easy To Eat?

Yes, chicken meatballs are not only easy to eat but also incredibly versatile. Their bite-sized form makes them perfect for appetizers, lunchboxes, or quick snacks.

They hold their shape well, so you can enjoy them with forks, toothpicks, or as part of a wrap or sandwich.

How Long Do Greek Chicken Meatballs Last?

  • Fridge: Keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
  • Freezer: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
  • Reheating: Use a skillet on low heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying them out.

Can You Make Mediterranean Meatballs With Chicken?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is an excellent base for Mediterranean meatballs. It’s light, absorbs flavors beautifully, and pairs perfectly with classic Mediterranean seasonings like lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs.

You can even customize the recipe by adding feta cheese or chopped olives to the mixture for extra flavor.

Expert Tips And Troubleshooting

How To Enhance The Flavor

  • Don’t skip the lemon zest—it’s the secret to that bright, Greek-inspired flavor.
  • Fresh herbs like dill and mint make a huge difference. Dried herbs won’t give the same vibrancy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Dry Meatballs: Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the mixture for extra moisture.
  • Sticky Mixture: Lightly oil your hands before shaping the meatballs.
  • Uneven Cooking: Flip the meatballs gently to cook evenly without breaking them.

Your Turn To Cook

This is it: having stored up all your tips and intriguing tricks, now, it is time to cook! Let me know how these Greek Chicken Meatballs turn out for you.

Snap a picture, share it on social media, and tag me so I can see your creations. Looking for more Mediterranean-inspired recipes? Check out the blog for more delicious ideas!

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Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen
Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe developer at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.
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