Name: Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 2 cloves minced garlic; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 egg; 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat); 1/2 cucumber, grated

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If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion, then you’re in for a treat! These Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are a family favorite in my home. They strike that wonderful balance between hearty and refreshing, making them ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Plus, they come together quite easily, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

What I adore about this recipe is not just the taste but also the freshness of the ingredients. The vibrant flavors from herbs like parsley and mint elevate the ground chicken, while the creamy tzatziki offers a cooling contrast. I promise these meatballs will become a go-to dish that brings everyone to the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just about 55 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike rave about these meatballs, so everyone will leave the table happy.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs and tzatziki sauce ahead of time, saving you effort on busy days.
Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of fresh herbs and spices makes every bite burst with Mediterranean goodness.
Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create juicy chicken meatballs paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this delightful meal!

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves, minced garlic
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 garlic
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! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or even ground beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Add some heat: If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for extra spice.
Change up the herbs: Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or basil to give your meatballs a unique twist.
Use non-dairy yogurt: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for the tzatziki.

How to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

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. Mixing these ingredients well ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 2: Add Egg and Shape Meatballs

Add the egg to your mixture and gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork it; this helps keep your meatballs light and tender. Shape them into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs—aiming for about 20 gives you plenty for family dinner or leftovers!

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your meatballs in batches without overcrowding them. Cooking them evenly ensures they get golden brown all over while staying juicy inside—about 4-5 minutes per side should do it!

Step 4: Absorb Excess Oil

Once cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove your meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels. This step helps absorb any excess oil so they can maintain their light texture.

Step 5: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out excess water), minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Mixing everything together allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Let your tzatziki sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This waiting time allows all those delicious flavors to come together harmoniously.

Step 7: Serve Up!

Finally, serve your juicy Greek chicken meatballs alongside that refreshing tzatziki sauce for dipping. It’s an inviting dish that will make everyone feel right at home! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Making these Greek chicken meatballs is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint add vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t match. They brighten up the meatballs and enhance the overall taste.
Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overworking the meat can lead to tough meatballs instead of tender, juicy bites.
Preheat your skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the meatballs. This helps create a nice sear on the outside, locking in moisture and flavor.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken meatballs are cooked through (165°F). This way, you avoid undercooking or overcooking them.
Let tzatziki chill: Allowing your tzatziki sauce to chill in the fridge not only melds the flavors but also makes it refreshing when served alongside warm meatballs.

How to Serve Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Serving these juicy Greek chicken meatballs is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some ideas to create an eye-catching and delicious meal.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or mint on top adds color and freshness.
Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon over the meatballs just before serving brightens up the dish and adds an extra zing!

Side Dishes

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil provides a crisp contrast to the warm meatballs.
Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up those delicious meatballs and tzatziki, making every bite enjoyable.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant bring out Mediterranean flavors that complement the dish beautifully.
Quinoa or Rice Pilaf: A light quinoa or rice pilaf seasoned with herbs creates a hearty base that balances out the meal while soaking up any leftover tzatziki.

By incorporating these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are perfect for meal prep! They store well and can be enjoyed throughout the week, making them not only a delicious choice but also a convenient one.

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Store tzatziki sauce in a separate container to keep it fresh.

Freezing

Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely.
Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Alternatively, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for the Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute! The flavors will still be delicious, though the texture may vary slightly.

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

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pita bread, fresh veggies, or a Mediterranean salad. They also make great appetizers!

How do I make the tzatziki sauce less watery?

To reduce excess water in your tzatziki, ensure you squeeze out as much liquid from the grated cucumber as possible before adding it to the yogurt mixture.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them before cooking. Just make sure they’re stored in an airtight container!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki as much as I do! Their combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a delightful flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these meatballs are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!

Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Mediterranean

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki, a dish that perfectly balances savory and refreshing tastes. These tender meatballs, made from ground chicken and infused with fresh herbs like parsley and mint, are paired with a creamy tzatziki sauce that brings a cooling contrast to every bite. In just under an hour, you can whip up this family-friendly meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Serve these scrumptious meatballs alongside pita bread or a crisp salad for a complete Mediterranean experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1 egg
1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat)
1/2 cucumber, grated

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add the egg and mix gently until combined; shape into meatballs (about 20).
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
For tzatziki, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed dry), garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl; refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Serve warm meatballs with chilled tzatziki sauce.