Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! One of my all-time favorite recipes is these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki. They are bursting with flavor from fresh herbs and spices, and the tzatziki sauce adds a delightful coolness that perfectly complements the warm, savory meatballs. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe fits the bill effortlessly.

What makes these meatballs so special is their versatility and wholesome ingredients. They’re sure to impress at dinner parties or simply make your weeknight meals feel a little more special. Plus, who doesn’t love the Mediterranean flavors that transport you straight to sunny Greece?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over 50 minutes, making it perfect for any evening.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love these juicy meatballs, and they’re great for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the meatballs in advance and simply cook them when you’re ready to eat.
• Packed with Flavor: Fresh herbs and spices make every bite delightful and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer or over rice for a complete meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 1 clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even lean beef for a different twist.
• Add some heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture if you like a little spice.
• Herb it up: Try using different herbs like cilantro or basil instead of parsley and mint for a unique flavor profile.
• Zesty tzatziki: Add grated lemon zest to your tzatziki for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

How to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by preparing the chicken meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh mint, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients together creates a flavorful base that will give your meatballs their delicious taste.

Step 2: Add Egg and Mix

Add the egg to the mixture and gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork it; doing so can lead to dense meatballs. You want them light and fluffy!

Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs—aiming for about 20 depending on size. This is where your personal touch comes in; feel free to make them larger or smaller according to your preference!

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches without overcrowding the pan. Cooking them in batches ensures that they get that lovely golden brown color on all sides.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through (you want an internal temperature of 165°F). Removing them from the skillet allows any excess oil to drain off.

Step 6: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed dry), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. This cool sauce is refreshing and complements your warm meatballs beautifully.

Step 7: Chill Tzatziki Sauce

Mix everything together until well combined. Taste it! Adjust seasoning if needed with more salt or lemon juice if desired. Letting it chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes helps meld those wonderful flavors together.

Step 8: Serve

Finally—serve those juicy Greek chicken meatballs alongside your homemade tzatziki sauce for dipping! Enjoy every bite alongside friends and family; it’s truly comfort food at its best.

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Creating the perfect meatball can feel daunting, but with a few handy tips, you’ll be on your way to making these juicy delights effortlessly!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint elevate the flavor of the meatballs, giving them that authentic Greek taste. Dried herbs just won’t provide the same vibrant notes.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combining the ingredients ensures the meatballs stay tender. Overworking them can lead to a tough texture that nobody wants!
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your mixture before shaping the meatballs. This allows you to tweak the salt and spices to your preference, ensuring every bite is delicious.
• Cook in batches: Cooking too many meatballs at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, resulting in steaming instead of browning. Take your time for that perfect golden color!
• Chill before cooking: If time allows, refrigerate your shaped meatballs for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking.

How to Serve Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Serving these juicy Greek chicken meatballs is all about presentation and pairing. With a few simple ideas, you can create an impressive meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some additional chopped parsley or mint on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon right before eating brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A classic combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil brings a crisp contrast to the warm meatballs.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing provides a nutritious side that complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant tossed in olive oil and herbs make for a colorful and healthy addition to your plate.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up those tasty meatballs and tzatziki sauce. Plus, it adds an extra layer of texture to each bite!

Now you’re all set to enjoy these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki! Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this dish will always steal the show. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the tzatziki sauce separate in another container to maintain its freshness.
• If you’re storing both together, ensure the meatballs have cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best taste, label with the date.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating from the fridge, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Tzatziki sauce can be enjoyed cold; just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

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

Can I use turkey instead of chicken for these meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still yield deliciously juicy meatballs.

How do I make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones.

Can I prepare the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The tzatziki sauce tastes even better after chilling, so feel free to prepare it a day in advance.

What else can I serve with Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pita bread, salad, or even as part of a Mediterranean platter along with hummus and olives.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki as much as I do! They are not only packed with flavor but also offer a refreshing twist that makes every bite delightful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this recipe is bound to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor the moments around your table!