These Greek Chicken Meatballs are packed with fresh herbs and spices, making them flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are seasoned with cumin, oregano, dill, mint, and lemon zest, offering a Mediterranean twist on a classic. Serve these meatballs over a bed of romaine lettuce with cucumber, tomato, feta, and a generous spoonful of homemade tzatziki sauce for a delicious and wholesome meal. These meatballs also work well for meal prep, making them a great protein-packed option for the week!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 2 pounds ground chicken

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon ground oregano

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped

• ¼ cup finely diced red onion

• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For Serving:

• Chopped romaine lettuce

• Feta cheese (for serving)

• Cucumber (sliced)

• Tomato (sliced)

• White rice

• Tzatziki sauce (for serving)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   In a medium mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the meatballs: ground chicken, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, red pepper flakes, dill, mint, red onion, garlic, and lemon zest. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined.

2. Form the Meatballs:
   Scoop out the meatball mixture using a cookie scoop or tablespoon and form into balls using your hands. This will yield about 24 meatballs.

3. Cook the Meatballs:
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You may need to cook the meatballs in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.

4. Serve:
   Serve the cooked meatballs over chopped romaine lettuce with cucumber, tomato, feta, rice, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 10g

  • Sugar: 4g

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 18g

  • Saturated Fat: 4g

• Sodium: 800mg

• Potassium: 600mg

• Cholesterol: 85mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

• Vitamin A: 20% DV

• Vitamin C: 15% DV

• Calcium: 8% DV

• Iron: 10% DV

The Mediterranean Influence on Flavor

Greek cuisine is known for its bold use of fresh herbs, citrus, and simple yet flavorful ingredients. This recipe for Greek Chicken Meatballs incorporates these very elements, creating a dish that is packed with Mediterranean flavors. Herbs like oregano and dill are quintessential in Greek cooking and bring earthy, fragrant notes to the meatballs. Mint adds a refreshing, cooling quality, which balances the richness of the chicken. The addition of lemon zest brings a bright, zesty note that elevates the other flavors.

The combination of these ingredients infuses the meatballs with a unique Mediterranean twist, setting them apart from traditional meatball recipes. The use of ground chicken makes the meatballs leaner, while still ensuring they’re moist and flavorful. This healthier protein option allows the vibrant herbs and spices to shine through, offering a lighter yet satisfying alternative to heavier meatball varieties.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients used in this Greek Chicken Meatball recipe are not only delicious but also provide a variety of health benefits. Ground chicken, being a lean protein, is a great source of essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. It’s lower in fat compared to red meats, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Fresh herbs like oregano, dill, and mint are not only flavorful but also packed with antioxidants and essential vitamins. Oregano, for example, has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Dill is rich in vitamin C and has been known to aid in digestion, while mint is often used to soothe the digestive system and provide a refreshing flavor. Combined with the citrusy zing of lemon zest, these herbs and spices create a nutrient-rich dish that is both delicious and healthy.

The Versatility of Greek Chicken Meatballs

One of the standout features of Greek Chicken Meatballs is their versatility. These meatballs can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making them an ideal dish for different occasions. As mentioned, serving them over a fresh bed of romaine lettuce with cucumber, tomato, and feta creates a refreshing, Mediterranean-inspired salad. You can also pair them with a side of white rice, couscous, or quinoa for a more substantial meal.

For a fun and interactive twist, these meatballs can also be served in pita bread as a wrap, similar to a gyro. Simply stuff the pita with the meatballs, add some fresh veggies like lettuce, cucumber, and tomato, and top with a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. This makes for a delicious handheld meal, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Additionally, Greek Chicken Meatballs are an excellent option for meal prep. The recipe yields about 24 meatballs, making it easy to store and enjoy throughout the week. These meatballs can be refrigerated for several days or frozen for longer storage, allowing you to have a healthy, homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it.

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs Even Better

While the recipe as it stands is already full of delicious flavors, there are several ways to customize Greek Chicken Meatballs to suit your personal taste or dietary needs. For example, if you want a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add some chopped fresh chili peppers to the mixture.

If you’re looking for a more savory flavor, try adding a handful of crumbled feta cheese to the meatball mixture. This will infuse the meatballs with an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor and creaminess. For those on a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free bread for the meatball mix. You can also try swapping the tzatziki sauce for a vegan yogurt-based sauce if you prefer a plant-based option.

The Tzatziki Sauce: A Perfect Accompaniment

No Greek Chicken Meatball recipe would be complete without a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce. This creamy, tangy sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs pairs beautifully with the meatballs. The coolness of the tzatziki sauce complements the warm, flavorful meatballs and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich spices. Tzatziki is easy to make at home, but it can also be purchased from most grocery stores, offering a convenient option when you’re short on time.

Tzatziki sauce is not only delicious but also packed with probiotics, which promote gut health. The cucumbers and garlic in the sauce add a refreshing flavor, while the yogurt provides a creamy, satisfying texture. For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a touch of dill or mint to the sauce to match the flavors in the meatballs.

A Meal for Any Occasion

Greek Chicken Meatballs are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, hosting a casual dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, these meatballs deliver both convenience and flavor. Their versatility allows them to be enjoyed in multiple ways, making them a great option for different tastes and preferences.

In addition to their delicious taste and ease of preparation, Greek Chicken Meatballs are also a healthy choice. By using lean ground chicken and a variety of fresh herbs and spices, these meatballs offer a balanced, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. The dish is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Wholesome Meal

Greek Chicken Meatballs offer a delightful Mediterranean twist on a classic dish. Packed with fresh herbs, spices, and lean chicken, they are both flavorful and healthy. Whether served in a fresh salad, a pita wrap, or over rice, these meatballs make for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The addition of tzatziki sauce adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, spiced meatballs, further enhancing the dish’s flavors.

This recipe is not only a great option for busy weeknights but also works well for meal prepping, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a quick, nutritious meal. The flexibility in how you can serve and customize these meatballs ensures they will quickly become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s sure to impress!