If you’re craving a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and comforting textures, look no further than this Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe. These meatballs are tender, juicy, and infused with the bright, aromatic herbs that make Greek cuisine unforgettable. The combination of ground chicken with crumbled feta and a medley of fresh herbs creates a perfect balance of savory and tangy, while a touch of garlic and mint adds depth to every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a family dinner or impressing friends at a get-together, these meatballs bring warmth, flavor, and a little taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these meatballs just right is all about simple, quality ingredients that each play a key role in the final dish. From the juicy ground chicken to the tangy feta cheese and fragrant herbs, every element is essential for that authentic Greek flavor and delightful texture.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean base that keeps the meatballs tender and light.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture and keeps meatballs moist.
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a creamy, salty punch that’s unmistakably Greek.
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and subtle crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory depth and aromatic warmth.
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped: The signature herb that boosts the herbal notes dramatically.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the flavor with fresh, green hints.
- 1 tsp dried mint: Adds a refreshing twist that complements the richness.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder for the mixture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for drizzling, to keep meatballs moist during baking.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: The basic seasonings that make every ingredient shine.
- ¼ cup tzatziki sauce: The cool, creamy dip that’s essential for serving.
How to Make Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and mix ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and ready for baking. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh oregano, parsley, dried mint, egg, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so all those vibrant flavors come together evenly without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Shape into meatballs
Once your mixture looks perfectly herb-coated and unified, roll it into one to one and a half-inch balls. This size is ideal because it allows the meatballs to cook through evenly while staying juicy inside. Place them spaced out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote easy cleanup.
Step 3: Drizzle with olive oil and bake
Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the arranged meatballs. This simple step ensures a beautifully golden color as they bake and keeps the outside from drying out. Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned. For peace of mind, you can check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve warm with tzatziki
When your Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe are out of the oven, serve them warm alongside a generous spoonful of cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. The refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip pairs perfectly with the herby, savory meatballs and adds a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
How to Serve Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some extra chopped fresh parsley and a little crumbled feta over the top for a fresh and colorful finish. A few lemon wedges on the side also brighten up the dish and enhance the herbs’ natural vibrancy.
Side Dishes
Pair your Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe with warm pita bread for soaking up any sauce, a crisp Greek salad to keep things light and fresh, or fluffy rice to round out a more filling meal. These combinations bring balance and keep the Mediterranean vibe alive on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, skewer the meatballs on wooden sticks for an easy party appetizer. Or stuff them inside toasted pita pockets with tzatziki, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes for a delicious sandwich-style meal. These ideas turn the dish into a versatile star at any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor well, making for quick lunches or easy dinners when time is short.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Freeze them individually to prevent sticking and grab exactly how many you need later.
Reheating
Reheat your Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave them covered on medium power in short bursts to keep them tender without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a lean alternative while still absorbing the flavors of the herbs and spices beautifully in this recipe.
Do I have to bake the meatballs or can I fry them?
While baking is healthier and effortlessly hands-off, you can pan-fry the meatballs in a little olive oil for a crispier exterior, just watch the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture just right.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh oregano?
Dried oregano is a fine substitute, but use it sparingly since it’s more potent. Alternatively, a mix of dried thyme and marjoram can mimic the flavor profile nicely.
How spicy are these meatballs?
This Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe is not spicy at all—it’s all about fresh herbs and savory flavors, perfect for anyone who prefers gentle, fragrant seasoning.
Final Thoughts
This Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe is one of those dishes that brings comfort, freshness, and a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, exciting to eat, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you try making these at home, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. So grab your herbs and get cooking—you’re in for a truly delicious treat!
Print
Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy dish featuring ground chicken mixed with traditional Greek herbs, feta cheese, and spices. Baked to golden perfection and served with creamy tzatziki sauce, they make a delightful appetizer or main course that pairs wonderfully with pita bread, salad, or rice.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried mint
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
To Serve
- ¼ cup tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up while you prepare the meatballs.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh oregano, fresh parsley, dried mint, one large egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but well until all components are evenly distributed.
- Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Place them spaced apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Add olive oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the arranged meatballs to help them brown and stay moist during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and serve them warm alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
- Optional pairing: Enjoy the meatballs with pita bread, fresh salad, or rice to complete your meal.
Notes
- Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized to promote uniform cooking.
- Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor, but dried herbs work well too.
- If you prefer, substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee safety and juiciness.
- Tzatziki sauce can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
