Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

This Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce recipe is a delightful, healthy Mediterranean dinner that brings together the rich flavors of ground chicken and fresh herbs. Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even as a filling for wraps, this dish stands out with its tasty combination of spices and its cooling tzatziki sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the ground chicken and fresh ingredients, this dish is a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious dinner ready in under 40 minutes.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy these meatballs on their own, with tzatziki sauce, or as part of a wrap or salad.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs are perfect for making ahead of time and can be easily stored for later meals.
• Flavorful Experience: The blend of herbs and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that will please everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of the meatballs.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Grater: Perfect for preparing the cucumber for tzatziki efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped dill
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped red onion, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs bake, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the warm meatballs accompanied by tzatziki sauce on the side or drizzled over top. Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Serve in a Pita Pocket

• Fill a warm pita pocket with meatballs, fresh lettuce, and sliced tomatoes for a quick, satisfying meal.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon the meatballs over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks with a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping at your next gathering.

In a Salad

• Toss the meatballs into a Greek salad, adding cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a wholesome dish.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Perfecting your Greek Chicken Meatballs takes just a few simple steps to ensure they are flavorful and juicy.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and quality ground chicken enhances the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined; overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
• Use Wet Hands: Wetting your hands while forming the meatballs prevents sticking and helps shape them easily.
• Bake Instead of Fry: Baking provides a healthier option while still achieving a crispy exterior.
• Let Them Rest: Allowing the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Greek Chicken Meatballs enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad
   Fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and olives tossed in olive oil and lemon juice complement the meatballs nicely.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrition to your plate.

3. Hummus and Veggies
   Serve creamy hummus alongside crunchy carrots and celery sticks for a delightful appetizer or side dish.

4. Olive Oil and Herb Couscous
   Fluffy couscous flavored with olive oil and mixed herbs makes for a light yet filling option alongside the meatballs.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon juice brings freshness that pairs well with the rich flavors of the meatballs.

6. Stuffed Grape Leaves
   These savory bites filled with rice and herbs add an authentic Mediterranean touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Ingredients: Skipping fresh herbs can dull the flavor. Always use fresh parsley and dill for the best taste.
• Bold Overmixing: Mixing the meatball mixture too much can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Bold Wrong Size: Forming meatballs of inconsistent sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for 1.5-inch meatballs for uniformity.
• Bold Not Preheating: Baking without preheating the oven can affect cooking time. Always preheat to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Bold Ignoring Drainage: Failing to drain grated cucumbers can make tzatziki watery. Squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
• Bold Serving Temperature: Serving meatballs cold can ruin their flavor. Serve them warm for the best experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

• Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat meatballs for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or beef can be used instead of chicken for different flavors.

How do I make Tzatziki sauce thicker?

To thicken tzatziki sauce, add more drained cucumbers or use less yogurt.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still produces delicious meatballs.

What can I serve with Greek Chicken Meatballs?

Serve these meatballs with pita bread, salad, or over rice for a complete meal.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce offer a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to impress at any dinner table. They’re versatile enough for meal prep or casual family dinners. Feel free to customize your tzatziki by adding spices or using different vegetables!

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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce, a healthy Mediterranean dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep. These tender meatballs, made with lean ground chicken and a medley of fresh herbs, are complemented by a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s versatile enough to serve in pitas, over rice, or as an appetizer. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped dill
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
5. For tzatziki sauce: In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (drained), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and salt. Chill until ready to serve.
6. Serve warm meatballs alongside tzatziki sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg