Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

The Juiciest Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Succulent and aromatic Greek chicken meatballs dance with Mediterranean flavors that instantly transport you to sunny coastal landscapes.

Fragrant herbs and zesty spices blend seamlessly in this classic dish.

Tender ground chicken becomes a canvas for traditional Greek seasonings like oregano and mint.

Each carefully crafted morsel promises a delightful culinary adventure packed with authentic taste.

Lean protein meets vibrant ingredients in a simple yet sophisticated preparation.

Garlic and lemon provide bright, complex undertones that make these meatballs irresistible.

Come explore this delectable recipe that brings Greece right to your kitchen table.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make these Greek chicken meatballs unique?

The combination of feta cheese, fresh parsley, oregano, and red onion gives these meatballs an authentic Greek flavor profile that sets them apart from traditional meatballs.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a substitute and will provide a similar texture and taste to the original recipe.

  • Are these meatballs healthy?

These meatballs are relatively lean since they’re made with ground chicken, and they include fresh herbs and vegetables, making them a healthier protein option compared to beef or pork meatballs.

  • How can I ensure the meatballs stay moist?

Mix the ingredients gently and avoid overmixing, which can make the meat tough. The egg and feta cheese help keep the meatballs tender and juicy during cooking.

What Makes These Greek Chicken Meatballs So Tasty

  • Savor Mediterranean Flavors: Dive into a delightful fusion of Greek-inspired ingredients that transport your taste buds to the sunny coastlines of Greece with every bite.
  • Master Quick Cooking: Create restaurant-quality meatballs in minutes using simple ingredients and basic kitchen skills, perfect for home cooks of all experience levels.
  • Customize Your Meal: Enjoy incredible versatility by serving these chicken meatballs with multiple accompaniments like tzatziki, pita, or fresh salad, making it ideal for different meal preferences and occasions.
  • Packed with Wholesome Goodness: Combine lean ground chicken with nutritious herbs and vegetables, delivering a protein-rich meal that's both delicious and health-conscious.

Ingredients for Authentic Greek Flavor

Main Protein:
  • Ground Chicken: A lean and versatile meat that provides the base for these delicious Greek-style meatballs.
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps to hold the meatballs together and adds a light texture.
  • Egg: Acts as a binding agent to keep the meatballs compact and moist.
  • Feta Cheese: Adds a tangy and creamy flavor characteristic of Greek cuisine.
Aromatics and Herbs:
  • Red Onion, Garlic: Provide a sharp and pungent base of flavor for the meatballs.
  • Parsley, Oregano: Classic Mediterranean herbs that bring a fresh and earthy taste to the dish.
Seasoning:
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the meatballs.
Cooking Ingredient:
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking the meatballs, creating a golden-brown exterior.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Tzatziki, Pita, Fresh Salad: Optional accompaniments that complement the Greek chicken meatballs.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Juicy Meatballs

Step 1: Blend Flavor Powerhouses

In a spacious mixing bowl, toss together ground chicken, crumbly breadcrumbs, tangy feta cheese, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, aromatic oregano, a pinch of salt, a dash of black pepper, and a whisked egg. Use your hands to blend everything into a harmonious mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape Delightful Bites

Gently roll the seasoned mixture into cute, bite-sized spheres, each about the size of a golf ball. The uniform shape will help ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.

Step 3: Sizzle and Brown

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the meatballs into the pan, allowing them to sizzle and develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior.

Rotate the meatballs every few minutes to ensure even browning and thorough cooking. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and the outside is crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the succulent meatballs to a serving plate. Accompany them with creamy tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, or a crisp Greek salad.

These Mediterranean-inspired morsels are perfect for a casual dinner or gathering with friends and family.

Tips to Achieve the Perfect Texture and Taste

  • Choose ground chicken with a moderate fat content to ensure moist and flavorful meatballs that won't dry out during cooking.
  • Gently mix ingredients to prevent overworking the meat, which can make meatballs tough and dense instead of tender.
  • Wet your hands with water or olive oil when forming meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking and help create smooth, uniform shapes.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat without overdrying.
  • Consider baking meatballs at 400°F for 15-20 minutes as an alternative cooking method for those who prefer less oil and want a healthier preparation.

Flavor Variations to Mix Things Up

  • Replace ground chicken with crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat alternative, maintaining same seasonings for authentic Greek flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Keto Option: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds, use extra egg as binding agent to create protein-packed meatballs.
  • Mediterranean Lamb Variation: Substitute ground chicken with ground lamb for richer, more intense Mediterranean taste, keeping original spice combination intact.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, ensuring all other ingredients remain consistent with original recipe.

Serving Ideas to Complement Your Meatballs

  • Meze Platter Presentation: Arrange meatballs on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of tzatziki, olives, and warm pita triangles for a traditional Greek sharing experience.
  • Mediterranean Bowl Delight: Layer fluffy rice or quinoa with the chicken meatballs, top with cucumber salad, crumbled feta, and drizzle with extra tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.
  • Stuffed Pita Pocket: Slice soft pita bread, stuff with warm meatballs, add fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a generous dollop of tzatziki for a handheld Greek-style sandwich perfect for lunch or quick dinner.

Storage Tips for Meatball Leftovers

  • Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Separate meatballs with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.
  • Allow meatballs to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn if freezing.
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Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe


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4.5 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mediterranean-inspired Greek chicken meatballs combine juicy ground chicken with aromatic herbs and spices. Serve with tzatziki sauce and pita for a delightful meal you’ll savor with Mediterranean flair.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground chicken
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 egg

Aromatics and Herbs:

  • 0.25 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Seasonings:

  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a spacious mixing vessel, thoroughly amalgamate ground chicken with finely chopped ingredients, ensuring even distribution of breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, crushed oregano, seasoning, and whisked egg until the mixture achieves a cohesive texture.
  2. Gently craft compact spherical portions, approximately one-inch in diameter, using moistened hands to prevent sticking and maintain uniform shape.
  3. Warm a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat, allowing the surface to become evenly heated for approximately 2-3 minutes.
  4. Carefully position meatballs into the heated skillet, maintaining adequate spacing between each piece to ensure uniform browning.
  5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, rotating periodically to achieve a golden-brown exterior and ensure complete internal cooking, with internal temperature reaching 165°F.
  6. Transfer meatballs onto a clean serving platter, allowing minimal resting time to retain heat and moisture.
  7. Accompany the meatballs with cooling tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, or a crisp Mediterranean-style salad for a complementary dining experience.

Notes

  • Gently mix ingredients to prevent tough meatballs, using light hand movements to keep the mixture tender and prevent overworking the meat.
  • Wet hands slightly with water before rolling meatballs to prevent sticking and create smooth, uniform shapes that cook evenly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature, guaranteeing safe and juicy meatballs without overcooking.
  • Experiment with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for low-carb and celiac-friendly variations that maintain the authentic Greek flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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