Greek Chicken Meatballs Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by
To make Greek chicken meatballs, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the list: - 1 lb ground chicken - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) - 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying) These ingredients blend well to give your meatballs a fresh and tasty flavor. The ground chicken provides a light base. The breadcrumbs help with the texture. Adding Parmesan gives a salty twist. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add a burst of brightness. Garlic and onion bring depth to each bite. If you want some heat, cayenne pepper works great. Olive oil helps to cook the meatballs perfectly and adds a nice richness. {{ingredient_image_1}} - In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. - Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped red onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. - Mix in 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of fresh mint, and 1 large egg. - Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you want heat. - Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well. - Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and makes shaping easier. - Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. - While the oil heats, shape the chicken mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. - Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding. - Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and cooked through. - Serve your warm meatballs with tzatziki sauce for a cool contrast. - Pair them with warm pita bread for a delightful bite. - Add a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and feta to round out the meal. To make great Greek chicken meatballs, mix ingredients well. Use your hands for an even blend. This helps every bite be tasty. After mixing, cover the bowl and chill for 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors blend together. It also makes the mixture easier to shape. Cooking meatballs just right gives them a golden brown color. Preheat your skillet to medium heat. Add olive oil and wait until it's hot. Place the meatballs gently in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes. The meatballs should be golden brown when done. Want to boost flavor? Adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add more salt or pepper for extra taste. Consider adding spices like cumin or coriander for a twist. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also change the flavor. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper for a kick. Pro Tips Chill the Mixture: Letting the meatball mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes shaping easier. Use Wet Hands: Dipping your hands in water before shaping the meatballs can help prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the meatballs in batches allows for even cooking and prevents steaming, ensuring they get that nice golden brown color. Check for Doneness: To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). {{image_2}} You can easily swap ground chicken for turkey or beef. This change gives a different taste and texture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This keeps the meatballs safe for those with gluten allergies. To spice things up, add cumin or coriander. These spices give a warm and rich flavor. You might also try different herbs. Basil or dill can change the flavor profile nicely. If you want a healthier option, bake the meatballs instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes. Grilling is another great method. It adds a nice char and smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grill to prevent sticking. To keep your Greek chicken meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb any moisture. This helps prevent sogginess. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs. Lay them on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, avoid drying out the meatballs. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking until warmed through. Greek chicken meatballs can stay fresh in the fridge for about three days. In the freezer, they can last up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage, such as off smells or a change in color. If they feel sticky or slimy, it's best to toss them. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. To ensure your Greek chicken meatballs are safe to eat, check the internal temperature. They should reach at least 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Insert it into the center of a meatball. If it reads 165°F or higher, your meatballs are done. This keeps them juicy and safe. Yes, you can make Greek chicken meatballs ahead of time. Mix the ingredients and form the meatballs. Then, cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. This saves you time on a busy day. You can also freeze them. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for about three months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge before frying. Tzatziki sauce is the classic choice for Greek chicken meatballs. It adds a cool and creamy touch. You can also try a simple tomato sauce or a yogurt-based dip. For a twist, serve with a spicy harissa sauce. Each of these options enhances the flavors of the meatballs. You can pair these sauces with warm pita bread for a complete meal. To sum up, we explored how to make delicious Greek chicken meatballs. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and serving ideas. I shared tips for mixing and cooking techniques to enhance flavor. You can also try fun variations like using turkey or baking instead of frying. Store your leftovers properly for best results. With these insights, you can create a tasty meal everyone will love. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and techniques in your kitchen!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make? Greek chicken meatballs are a fantastic choice! In this article, I’ll guide you through a simple recipe that bursts with fresh herbs and spices. You’ll impress your family and friends with these juicy, tender meatballs. Plus, I’ll share tips for storage and variations. Let’s dive in and bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen!

Jump to Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh Flavors: This recipe incorporates fresh herbs like parsley and mint, giving the meatballs a vibrant and aromatic taste that transports you to the Mediterranean.
  2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs can be whipped up quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  3. Versatile Serving Options: These meatballs can be served in various ways, such as in pita bread, with tzatziki, or alongside a fresh salad, allowing for a customizable meal.
  4. Healthy and Delicious: Made with lean ground chicken and packed with herbs, these meatballs are a healthier choice without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

To make Greek chicken meatballs, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the list:

– 1 lb ground chicken

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

These ingredients blend well to give your meatballs a fresh and tasty flavor. The ground chicken provides a light base. The breadcrumbs help with the texture. Adding Parmesan gives a salty twist. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add a burst of brightness. Garlic and onion bring depth to each bite. If you want some heat, cayenne pepper works great. Olive oil helps to cook the meatballs perfectly and adds a nice richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Mixture

– In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs.

– Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped red onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves.

– Mix in 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of fresh mint, and 1 large egg.

– Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you want heat.

– Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well.

– Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and makes shaping easier.

Cooking the Meatballs

– Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

– While the oil heats, shape the chicken mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.

– Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding.

– Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve your warm meatballs with tzatziki sauce for a cool contrast.

– Pair them with warm pita bread for a delightful bite.

– Add a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and feta to round out the meal.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Mixing

To make great Greek chicken meatballs, mix ingredients well. Use your hands for an even blend. This helps every bite be tasty. After mixing, cover the bowl and chill for 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors blend together. It also makes the mixture easier to shape.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking meatballs just right gives them a golden brown color. Preheat your skillet to medium heat. Add olive oil and wait until it’s hot. Place the meatballs gently in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes. The meatballs should be golden brown when done.

Enhancing Flavor

Want to boost flavor? Adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add more salt or pepper for extra taste. Consider adding spices like cumin or coriander for a twist. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also change the flavor. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper for a kick.

Pro Tips

  1. Chill the Mixture: Letting the meatball mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes shaping easier.
  2. Use Wet Hands: Dipping your hands in water before shaping the meatballs can help prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
  3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the meatballs in batches allows for even cooking and prevents steaming, ensuring they get that nice golden brown color.
  4. Check for Doneness: To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily swap ground chicken for turkey or beef. This change gives a different taste and texture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This keeps the meatballs safe for those with gluten allergies.

Flavor Adjustments

To spice things up, add cumin or coriander. These spices give a warm and rich flavor. You might also try different herbs. Basil or dill can change the flavor profile nicely.

Cooking Methods

If you want a healthier option, bake the meatballs instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes. Grilling is another great method. It adds a nice char and smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grill to prevent sticking.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Greek chicken meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb any moisture. This helps prevent sogginess. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs. Lay them on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Techniques

When reheating, avoid drying out the meatballs. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking until warmed through.

Shelf Life

Greek chicken meatballs can stay fresh in the fridge for about three days. In the freezer, they can last up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage, such as off smells or a change in color. If they feel sticky or slimy, it’s best to toss them. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.

FAQs

How do I know when Greek chicken meatballs are cooked through?

To ensure your Greek chicken meatballs are safe to eat, check the internal temperature. They should reach at least 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Insert it into the center of a meatball. If it reads 165°F or higher, your meatballs are done. This keeps them juicy and safe.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can make Greek chicken meatballs ahead of time. Mix the ingredients and form the meatballs. Then, cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. This saves you time on a busy day. You can also freeze them. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for about three months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge before frying.

What’s the best sauce to serve with Greek chicken meatballs?

Tzatziki sauce is the classic choice for Greek chicken meatballs. It adds a cool and creamy touch. You can also try a simple tomato sauce or a yogurt-based dip. For a twist, serve with a spicy harissa sauce. Each of these options enhances the flavors of the meatballs. You can pair these sauces with warm pita bread for a complete meal.

To sum up, we explored how to make delicious Greek chicken meatballs. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and serving ideas. I shared tips for mixing and cooking techniques to enhance flavor. You can also try fun variations like using turkey or baking instead of frying. Store your leftovers properly for best results. With these insights, you can create a tasty meal everyone will love. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and techniques in your kitche

To make Greek chicken meatballs, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the list: - 1 lb ground chicken - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) - 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying) These ingredients blend well to give your meatballs a fresh and tasty flavor. The ground chicken provides a light base. The breadcrumbs help with the texture. Adding Parmesan gives a salty twist. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add a burst of brightness. Garlic and onion bring depth to each bite. If you want some heat, cayenne pepper works great. Olive oil helps to cook the meatballs perfectly and adds a nice richness. {{ingredient_image_1}} - In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. - Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped red onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. - Mix in 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of fresh mint, and 1 large egg. - Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you want heat. - Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well. - Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and makes shaping easier. - Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. - While the oil heats, shape the chicken mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. - Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding. - Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and cooked through. - Serve your warm meatballs with tzatziki sauce for a cool contrast. - Pair them with warm pita bread for a delightful bite. - Add a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and feta to round out the meal. To make great Greek chicken meatballs, mix ingredients well. Use your hands for an even blend. This helps every bite be tasty. After mixing, cover the bowl and chill for 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors blend together. It also makes the mixture easier to shape. Cooking meatballs just right gives them a golden brown color. Preheat your skillet to medium heat. Add olive oil and wait until it's hot. Place the meatballs gently in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes. The meatballs should be golden brown when done. Want to boost flavor? Adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can add more salt or pepper for extra taste. Consider adding spices like cumin or coriander for a twist. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also change the flavor. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper for a kick. Pro Tips Chill the Mixture: Letting the meatball mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes shaping easier. Use Wet Hands: Dipping your hands in water before shaping the meatballs can help prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the meatballs in batches allows for even cooking and prevents steaming, ensuring they get that nice golden brown color. Check for Doneness: To ensure the meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). {{image_2}} You can easily swap ground chicken for turkey or beef. This change gives a different taste and texture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This keeps the meatballs safe for those with gluten allergies. To spice things up, add cumin or coriander. These spices give a warm and rich flavor. You might also try different herbs. Basil or dill can change the flavor profile nicely. If you want a healthier option, bake the meatballs instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes. Grilling is another great method. It adds a nice char and smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grill to prevent sticking. To keep your Greek chicken meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb any moisture. This helps prevent sogginess. You can refrigerate them for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs. Lay them on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, avoid drying out the meatballs. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking until warmed through. Greek chicken meatballs can stay fresh in the fridge for about three days. In the freezer, they can last up to three months. Look for signs of spoilage, such as off smells or a change in color. If they feel sticky or slimy, it's best to toss them. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. To ensure your Greek chicken meatballs are safe to eat, check the internal temperature. They should reach at least 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Insert it into the center of a meatball. If it reads 165°F or higher, your meatballs are done. This keeps them juicy and safe. Yes, you can make Greek chicken meatballs ahead of time. Mix the ingredients and form the meatballs. Then, cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. This saves you time on a busy day. You can also freeze them. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for about three months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge before frying. Tzatziki sauce is the classic choice for Greek chicken meatballs. It adds a cool and creamy touch. You can also try a simple tomato sauce or a yogurt-based dip. For a twist, serve with a spicy harissa sauce. Each of these options enhances the flavors of the meatballs. You can pair these sauces with warm pita bread for a complete meal. To sum up, we explored how to make delicious Greek chicken meatballs. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and serving ideas. I shared tips for mixing and cooking techniques to enhance flavor. You can also try fun variations like using turkey or baking instead of frying. Store your leftovers properly for best results. With these insights, you can create a tasty meal everyone will love. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and techniques in your kitchen!

Greek Chicken Meatballs

Delicious and flavorful chicken meatballs infused with fresh herbs and spices, perfect for a Mediterranean meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Greek
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped red onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, egg, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  • Mix the ingredients thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until well combined.
  • Once mixed, cover the bowl and let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the meatballs easier to form.
  • Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
  • While the oil heats, shape the chicken mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
  • Place the meatballs carefully into the skillet, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  • Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  • Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel.
  • Serve warm with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and a side salad of tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.

Notes

Serve with tzatziki sauce and warm pita bread for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, Greek, herbs, meatballs, Mediterranean

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?