Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

There's something magical about the aroma of fresh herbs and sizzling chicken filling the kitchen air. These Greek Chicken Meatballs bring together bright Mediterranean flavors in a dish that’s as comforting as it is vibrant.

I first crafted this recipe after a trip to a local farmer’s market, where I was inspired by the abundance of fresh dill, parsley, and feta. Since then, it’s become a staple in our household, perfect for weeknights when we want something both hearty and refreshing. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making these Greek Chicken Meatballs.

Why You'll Love This Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to introduce your taste buds to a delicious Mediterranean-inspired treat. These Greek Chicken Meatballs are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.

First and foremost, these meatballs are incredibly quick to prepare. From start to finish, you can have them ready in just about 30 minutes, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Not only are they fast, but they’re also wonderfully healthy. Using lean ground chicken cuts down on fat without sacrificing flavor, while fresh herbs and a touch of feta cheese add depth and brightness to every bite.

This recipe is also surprisingly budget-friendly. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or inexpensive produce, meaning you won’t break the bank to enjoy a satisfying meal.

Finally, these Greek Chicken Meatballs are extremely versatile. Serve them as an appetizer, tuck them into pita wraps, or pair them with a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal. No matter how you serve them, they’re sure to please.

Now that you’re eager to try them, let’s take a closer look at the simple yet flavorful ingredients that make these meatballs shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Greek Chicken Meatballs lies in their fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a harmonious flavor profile.

The base of the recipe is ground chicken, which provides a lean yet tender texture. I prefer using a mixture of white and dark meat for the best balance of moisture and flavor. If you can only find one type, it will still work beautifully.

Next comes the feta cheese, which adds a salty, tangy bite that perfectly complements the herbs. I recommend using a block of feta and crumbling it yourself for the freshest taste, though pre-crumbled feta can be a convenient substitute.

Fresh herbs like parsley and dill are essential here. They provide a burst of brightness and authentic Greek flavor that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. Be generous with them—you’ll taste the difference.

Garlic and red onion add aromatic depth to the mixture. Finely mincing both ensures they blend seamlessly into the meatballs, distributing flavor evenly throughout each bite.

You’ll also need breadcrumbs and an egg to bind everything together, creating meatballs that hold their shape while remaining tender and juicy. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice finishes the mixture with a hint of acidity that elevates the entire dish.

For equipment, all you’ll need is a large mixing bowl, a baking sheet, and optionally, a skillet if you choose to brown the meatballs before baking.

How To Make This Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Making these Greek Chicken Meatballs is a simple and straightforward process that anyone can master. I’ll walk you through each step to ensure perfect results every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. This ensures the meatballs won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, chopped dill, minced garlic, finely diced red onion, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatballs dense.

Once the mixture is ready, use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out even-sized balls. Roll them gently between your palms to form smooth, uniform meatballs. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

If you want a bit of extra color and flavor, you can sear the meatballs in a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil before baking. This step is optional but adds a lovely golden crust to the exterior.

Transfer the meatballs to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should be firm to the touch and slightly golden on the outside.

In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. The result is tender, juicy meatballs bursting with fresh, vibrant flavor.

Storage Options

These Greek Chicken Meatballs store beautifully, making them a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without any loss of quality.

For longer storage, these meatballs freeze exceptionally well. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll keep for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. They reheat wonderfully, maintaining their juicy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can omit the feta or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. The herbs and seasonings still provide plenty of flavor even without the cheese.

For a gluten-free version, simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. The texture remains light and tender with this swap.

Don’t have fresh herbs on hand? While fresh is best, you can substitute with half the amount of dried herbs in a pinch. Just be mindful that dried herbs are more potent.

Ground turkey makes an excellent substitute for ground chicken if that’s what you have available. The flavor profile remains similar, and you’ll still enjoy a deliciously tender meatball.

Feel free to experiment with spices as well. A pinch of oregano, cumin, or even a dash of cayenne can add a new dimension of flavor to your meatballs.

No matter how you adapt it, this Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe offers endless possibilities. I encourage you to make it your own and enjoy discovering your favorite version!

Print