Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki! 🌿🍋

Introduction

When it comes to family dinners, I always find myself gravitating toward Mediterranean flavors. There’s something so vibrant and wholesome about them that keeps everyone at the table happy and satisfied. Recently, I tried my hand at making Greek chicken meatballs paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer! My family devoured the meatballs, and the tzatziki was a delightful touch that added a creamy, tangy contrast. This dish is perfect for a cozy family night or a lively gathering with friends. Whether tossed in a salad or stuffed in pita pockets, these meatballs are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb lean ground chicken
• 1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs (or any breadcrumbs available)
• 1/4 cup grated white or yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, a generous pinch of each
• 1 large egg
• 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

For the Homemade Tzatziki:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and excess water squeezed out
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, lightly greased with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko crumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, dried oregano, ground coriander, cumin, salt, pepper, egg, and crumbled feta. Mix thoroughly until well-blended.
3. Form the meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into balls about 1 tablespoon in size. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs:

4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Tzatziki:

5. Prepare the tzatziki: While the meatballs are baking, combine Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.

Serve:

6. Plate and enjoy: Once the meatballs are ready, remove them from the oven. Serve hot with a generous dollop of the homemade tzatziki on the side or drizzled over the top.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 280 per serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve meatballs on a platter with tzatziki for dipping.
• Toss meatballs in a salad for a protein-rich meal.
• Stuff in pita pockets with fresh veggies for a delicious wrap.
• Serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a wholesome dinner.
• Add to a mezze platter with olives, roasted peppers, and more.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: Prepare meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
2. Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for easy weeknight meals.
3. Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste preferences.
4. Substitutions: Use ground turkey or beef if you prefer a different meat option.
5. Herbs: Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones; just use more fresh if you prefer!

Recipe Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Add chopped olives or roasted red peppers to the meatball mixture.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes for a spicier flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground chicken with cooked quinoa or lentils for a meatless version.
• Cheesy Goodness: Add more feta or try different cheeses like mozzarella for a melty surprise.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm pita bread and a side of Greek salad.
• Pair with a glass of white wine or a light beer for a refreshing experience.
• Offer additional dips like hummus or baba ganoush for variety.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Meatballs can be frozen raw or cooked. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, ground turkey or beef can be used as alternatives to chicken.
2. Is tzatziki gluten-free?
   Yes, if you use gluten-free yogurt, tzatziki can be gluten-free.
3. Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the meatball mixture and refrigerate it or freeze it for later.
4. How do I prevent the meatballs from being dry?
   Ensure you don’t overcook them, and the addition of feta and egg helps keep them moist.
5. What can I substitute for feta cheese?
   Crumbled goat cheese or ricotta can be good substitutes.
6. How spicy are these meatballs?
   The recipe is mild; add red pepper flakes to increase the heat level.
7. Can I bake them in an air fryer?
   Yes, you can air fry them at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.
8. What dishes pair well with Greek chicken meatballs?
   Mediterranean salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls.
9. How do I know when the meatballs are done?
   They should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F.
10. Can I use frozen ground chicken?
    Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it before mixing.

Conclusion

These Greek chicken meatballs paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a quick meal prep, they are sure to be a hit. With their Mediterranean flavors and ease of preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones!

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