Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki

Introduction

If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and simple meal that the whole family will love, these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki are a must-try! I recently made this recipe, and it quickly became a family favorite. The chicken meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors, while the homemade tzatziki sauce brings a creamy, cool contrast that’s absolutely delicious. The combination of lemon, fresh herbs, and spices in both the meatballs and the tzatziki sauce gives this dish an amazing depth of flavor without being too heavy. It’s light, yet satisfying, and can be served in a variety of ways—whether you enjoy them with warm pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or simply on their own. My family devoured these meatballs, and I know this recipe will be one you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
   In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, mint (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the ingredients are fully mixed. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and refrigerate the tzatziki sauce until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together and get even better!
2. Prepare the Chicken Meatballs:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the lightly beaten egg. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
   Roll the chicken mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. This size allows them to cook evenly and makes them perfect for dipping into the tzatziki sauce.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning the meatballs occasionally, until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. You may need to cook the meatballs in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
5. Serve:
   Arrange the cooked meatballs on a platter, and serve with a generous side of the homemade tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon wedges for added flavor and a pop of color. These meatballs are perfect with warm pita bread, a Greek salad, or on their own as a satisfying snack or main dish.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve

• With Warm Pita Bread: Serve the meatballs with warm pita bread, allowing everyone to make their own mini wraps filled with meatballs and tzatziki sauce.
• With Greek Salad: These meatballs pair wonderfully with a classic Greek salad, complete with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
• On a Plate with Extra Tzatziki: For a lighter option, serve the meatballs on a plate with a generous amount of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
• For a Party: These meatballs can be served as appetizers for a party or family gathering. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overmix: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture. This can make the meatballs tough. Mix until just combined.
2. Use Lean Ground Chicken: For a healthier version of these meatballs, use lean ground chicken. It keeps the meatballs tender and lower in fat.
3. Chill the Meatball Mixture: If you have time, let the meatball mixture chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before forming the meatballs. This helps the mixture hold together better while cooking.
4. Test for Doneness: Ensure the meatballs are fully cooked by cutting one open to check for any pinkness in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Customize the Tzatziki: If you prefer a thicker tzatziki sauce, add less cucumber or strain it after grating. You can also add a bit of garlic or lemon juice to taste.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Meatballs: For a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground chicken with a plant-based protein like ground lentils or chickpeas.
• Spicy Meatballs: Add some chopped green chilies or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture to add a little heat.
• Grilled Meatballs: For a smoky flavor, grill the meatballs instead of pan-frying them. This gives them a delicious char that pairs perfectly with the tzatziki.
• Mini Meatballs: To serve as appetizers, roll the mixture into smaller, bite-sized meatballs. These can be served with toothpicks and a side of tzatziki for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a Side of Hummus: For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve these meatballs with a side of hummus for dipping.
• As a Wrap: Use the meatballs and tzatziki to create a wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, wrapped in a large pita or flatbread.
• Over Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the meatballs over a bed of couscous, quinoa, or rice for a filling and balanced dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing the Meatballs: These meatballs freeze really well. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tzatziki sauce can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
   Yes, ground turkey works great in this recipe and is a good alternative to ground chicken.
2. What if I don’t have fresh dill?
   You can substitute with dried dill. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
3. Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, tzatziki sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
4. Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
   Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and cooked through.
5. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
   You can check the internal temperature of the meatballs using a meat thermometer. They should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
6. Can I use non-fat Greek yogurt for the tzatziki?
   Yes, non-fat Greek yogurt can be used in place of regular Greek yogurt, though it may result in a slightly less creamy texture.
7. Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
8. How do I make the tzatziki sauce thicker?
   To thicken the tzatziki, use less cucumber, or drain the cucumber after grating it to remove excess moisture.
9. Can I freeze the tzatziki sauce?
   While you can freeze tzatziki, it may affect the texture and

separation after thawing. It’s best fresh.

10. What side dishes go well with this dish?
    Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of hummus and pita bread all complement these meatballs beautifully.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki is the perfect dish for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors. The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, while the tzatziki sauce adds the perfect creamy, cool contrast. It’s an easy-to-make, nutritious meal that can be enjoyed in various ways—whether you’re serving it with pita bread, a Greek salad, or just on its own. Try this recipe the next time you want a light yet filling dinner that will satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy!

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