Chef Mitchell preparing Greek Chicken Meatballs
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of Greek chicken meatballs during a summer trip to Greece where I tasted the authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Fascinated by the blend of herbs and spices, I spent years perfecting my own version back home. This recipe has become a family favorite, bringing the essence of Greece to our dining table. I love sharing these meatballs with friends and family, showcasing the flavors that inspired me."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience specializing in Mediterranean cuisine. His passion for cooking began at a young age, leading him to explore various cultures through their culinary traditions. With a reputation for creating healthy and flavorful dinners, Chef Mitchell enjoys crafting recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare for home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Greek Chicken Meatballs served on a plate

Why This Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe Works

This Greek chicken meatballs recipe stands out for its perfect blend of spices and herbs that infuse each meatball with flavor. The use of ground chicken keeps them light yet satisfying, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional meatballs. The combination of fresh parsley and Parmesan adds a fresh twist, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Cooking the meatballs in the oven allows for even browning and a tender inside, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The olive oil brushed on top provides a crispy texture without deep frying, ensuring a healthier meal. This technique guarantees perfectly cooked meatballs every time.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, allow the meatball mixture to rest for about 15 minutes before forming them into balls. This allows the breadcrumbs to absorb moisture from the chicken and helps the flavors meld together. Always use room temperature ingredients for optimal mixing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to deepen. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs and simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking process.

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Alternatively, you can use cooked quinoa or rice as a binder to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful.

To ensure the meatballs are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the meatballs should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch.

Yes, Greek chicken meatballs freeze beautifully! After cooking, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

These meatballs pair wonderfully with a side of tzatziki sauce, a fresh Greek salad, or warm pita bread. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them with rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors.

Cooked Greek chicken meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Yes, you can make the meatball mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. This is perfect for meal prepping or hosting, as it reduces the amount of time spent in the kitchen on the day of serving.

The best way to reheat Greek chicken meatballs is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your meatballs turn out dry, it can be due to overcooking or not enough moisture in the mixture.

Solution: To fix the dryness, consider adding a bit more olive oil or a splash of chicken broth to the mixture. If overcooked, monitor the cooking time closely next time.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Meatballs may not be crispy if they were not sufficiently browned or if they were overcrowded on the baking sheet.

Solution: Ensure there's enough space between the meatballs on the baking sheet, and try broiling them for the last few minutes of cooking to achieve a crispy exterior.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked meatballs can become tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remove the meatballs as soon as they reach 165°F (75°C).

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the meatballs is undercooked, they may be raw inside.

Recovery: To recover, you can return the meatballs to the oven, covering them with foil to avoid further browning, until they reach the correct temperature.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt meatballs can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if they are left in the oven too long.

Prevention: To avoid burnt meatballs, monitor them closely during cooking and adjust the temperature lower if necessary. Covering the meatballs with foil can also help.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If too sweet, add a touch of lemon juice or more herbs to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If too salty, serve with a side of unsalted yogurt or a fresh salad to counter the saltiness.

Bland: If bland, increase the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavor profile.

Fresh ingredients for Greek Chicken Meatballs

Essential Ingredients for Greek Chicken Meatballs

The key ingredients for Greek chicken meatballs include ground chicken, which is lean and healthy, making it a great protein choice. Fresh herbs like parsley and oregano elevate the flavor, while breadcrumbs help bind the mixture. Using quality cheese, such as Parmesan, adds richness and depth. Overall, the combination of these ingredients creates meatballs that are both flavorful and nutritious.

When choosing your ingredients, opt for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and texture. Fresh herbs should be bright and vibrant, while cheese should be freshly grated for the best melting properties. Quality ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also make a significant difference in the overall dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Ground Chicken: Using ground chicken breast provides a leaner option compared to traditional ground beef or pork. Look for fresh ground chicken rather than pre-packaged for the best taste and texture.
  • Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and oregano bring a bright and aromatic flavor to the meatballs. Always use fresh herbs when possible, as dried herbs can alter the flavor profile.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful nutty flavor and richness. For the best results, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged to avoid anti-caking agents.
Cooking process for Greek Chicken Meatballs

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Greek chicken meatballs involves a straightforward method that yields flavorful results. Start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. Once shaped, baking allows for even cooking without the need for frying, making it a healthier option.

For perfect results, keep an eye on the cooking time and check the internal temperature as they cook. Allow them to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute, yielding a tender bite.

Key Technique for Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs

The key technique for making perfect Greek chicken meatballs lies in not overmixing the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to maintain a light and tender meatball.

Greek Chicken Meatballs

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
    For tzatziki sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated cucumber
    Drained
  • 1 clove garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill
    Chopped

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb ground chicken
    Lean meat for meatballs
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    For binding
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Adds flavor
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
    For freshness
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
    For flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    Enhances flavor
  • 1 egg
    Binder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    Herbal flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    Optional heat
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For browning
  • 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (for serving)
    For dipping
  • 1 lemon (cut into wedges for serving)
    Adds acidity
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
    For presentation

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Mix Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.

  3. Form Meatballs

    Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  4. Brush with Olive Oil

    Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown during cooking.

  5. Bake Meatballs

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown on the outside.

  6. Prepare Tzatziki Sauce

    While meatballs are baking, prepare tzatziki sauce if not using store-bought. Combine yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill in a bowl.

  7. Serve

    Once meatballs are done, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve with tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges.

  8. Garnish and Enjoy

    Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your Greek chicken meatballs with a side of salad or pita bread.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Greek chicken meatballs, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to three months. Just ensure they are fully cooled before freezing.

Serving Suggestions

Greek chicken meatballs are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or in a wrap. Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or in a pita with tzatziki for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own variation of Greek chicken meatballs. Adding feta cheese can introduce a salty tang, while incorporating spinach can boost the nutritional value. You can also adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.