Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delightful dish that combines tender meatballs with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. These flavorful chicken meatballs are perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal. The blend of fresh herbs and spices creates an unforgettable taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The mix of herbs and spices in the chicken meatballs offers an incredible burst of flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these meatballs quickly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even in a pita for a delicious sandwich.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean ground chicken and fresh veggies, these meatballs are a tasty yet healthy choice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• large bowl
• skillet
• measuring cups
• measuring spoons
• mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing all ingredients without making a mess.
• Skillet: Perfect for frying the meatballs evenly until golden brown.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.

Ingredients

These flavorful chicken meatballs, packed with fresh herbs and spices, paired with a cool tzatziki sauce, are a perfect blend of savory and refreshing that will delight your taste buds.

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, 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 garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

How to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
* 1 lb ground chicken
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
* 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
* 2 cloves garlic, 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

Add one egg to the mixture and gently mix everything until well combined. Avoid overworking the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. Aim for about 20 meatballs depending on size preference.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once hot:
* Add the meatballs in batches.
* Cook each side for about 4–5 minutes until golden brown.
Ensure they are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Make Tzatziki Sauce

In a medium bowl:
Combine:
* 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)
* 1/2 cucumber, grated (excess water squeezed out)
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
* 1/4 tsp salt
* 1/4 tsp black pepper

Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Chill Tzatziki Sauce

Chill the tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy your juicy Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Juicy Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether as a main dish or a snack, these meatballs enhance any meal.

In a Wrap

• Use pita or flatbread to create a delicious wrap filled with meatballs, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the meatballs on skewers with small cups of tzatziki for dipping. Perfect for parties or gatherings!

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Place the meatballs over a bed of rice or quinoa, drizzling with tzatziki for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor.

On a Salad

• Slice the meatballs and toss them onto a fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese. Top with tzatziki for extra creaminess.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the meatballs with roasted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, adding some tzatziki on the side for dipping.

How to Perfect Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

To ensure your juicy Greek chicken meatballs come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint add vibrant flavors that dried herbs cannot replicate. They enhance the overall taste of the meatballs.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

• Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the meatballs. This helps in achieving that golden-brown crust while keeping them juicy inside.

• Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 165°F. This ensures they are cooked through but still moist.

• Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the meatballs to rest on paper towels for a few minutes. This helps soak up excess oil while retaining moisture inside.

Best Side Dishes for Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Pairing side dishes with juicy Greek chicken meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad: A fresh mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil complements the flavors perfectly.

2. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest and herbs adds brightness to your plate while balancing savory flavors.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with Mediterranean spices pair wonderfully with the juicy texture of the meatballs.

4. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring out the freshness in your meal and provide a colorful presentation.

5. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips served alongside tzatziki make for an excellent appetizer or snack option during meals.

6. Hummus and Veggies: A platter of hummus paired with assorted fresh veggies offers crunch and creaminess that complements the chicken meatballs beautifully.

7. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing bulgur salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing juicy Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing the meat too much can lead to dense meatballs. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed.
• Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs are key for flavor. Don’t skip the parsley and mint; they enhance the dish significantly.
• Not measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for balance. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Improper cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Medium heat is ideal for even cooking.
• Forgetting to chill the tzatziki: Allowing the tzatziki sauce to chill melds flavors. Don’t serve it immediately; refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Greek chicken meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Keep tzatziki sauce separate in another container for freshness.

Freezing Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

• Freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place meatballs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add meatballs. Cook gently, turning frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure my Greek chicken meatballs are juicy?

To maintain juiciness, avoid overmixing ingredients and make sure not to cook them too long or at too high a temperature.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for chicken in this recipe, resulting in slightly different flavors but still delicious.

What should I serve with Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki?

These meatballs pair well with pita bread, fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does tzatziki last in the refrigerator?

Homemade tzatziki can last about 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Juicy Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki offer a delightful blend of flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table. They’re versatile too—feel free to customize them by adding your favorite spices or serving them alongside various sides! Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Savor the delightful combination of Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki, a dish that effortlessly blends savory and refreshing flavors. These tender meatballs are crafted from lean ground chicken mixed with fresh herbs like parsley and mint, delivering an incredible taste experience. Paired with a cool tzatziki sauce made from creamy Greek yogurt and crisp cucumber, this meal is perfect for any occasion—be it dinner parties or casual weeknight meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, 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)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat)
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and egg until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs (about 20 total).
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook meatballs for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Prepare tzatziki by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (excess water squeezed out), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper; refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
5. Serve meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs with tzatziki (150g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg