Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, you’ve found it! Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delightful blend of savory chicken and refreshing herbs. This recipe has earned a special place in my heart because it’s not just delicious, but also easy to whip up on busy weeknights or for family gatherings. The combination of tender meatballs and cool tzatziki sauce is truly irresistible, making it a hit every time I serve it.

This dish brings together Mediterranean flavors that can transport you to sun-soaked shores with each bite. Plus, it’s wholesome and satisfying, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the tasty meatballs, and they’re perfect for picky eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer.
• Packed with flavor: Fresh herbs and spices elevate this dish to something truly special.
• Healthy option: Made with lean ground chicken and fresh ingredients, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You might already have many of them in your kitchen!

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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some ways you can mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat for a different take.
• Add some heat: If you like spice, mix in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the meatball mixture.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it a wrap: Serve the meatballs inside pita bread along with tzatziki and your favorite veggies for a fun twist.

How to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

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 well ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 2: Mix It Up

Add the egg to the mixture and gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork it; this keeps your meatballs light and tender.

Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs

Shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs—aiming for about 20 depending on size. Keeping them uniform helps them cook evenly.

Step 4: Cook Them Up

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pan. This step is crucial! Cooking them properly gives that nice golden-brown crust we all love.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Cook the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). This step ensures they’re juicy inside while having a wonderful texture outside.

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil

Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them light without being greasy.

Step 7: Make Your Tzatziki Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (make sure you squeezed out excess water), minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates that creamy sauce that perfectly complements your chicken meatballs.

Step 8: Chill Out!

Mix everything until well combined but don’t forget to taste! Adjust seasoning if needed—maybe more salt or lemon juice? Chill your tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving; this lets those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your juicy Greek chicken meatballs alongside your tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful dish!

With their bold flavors and satisfying texture, these juicy Greek chicken meatballs paired with tzatziki will surely become a beloved recipe in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Making juicy and flavorful meatballs can be simple and fun if you keep a few key tips in mind!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint provide vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t match. They elevate the dish by adding brightness and freshness, enhancing the overall taste of your meatballs.

• Don’t overmix the meat: When combining your ingredients, mix just until combined. Overworking the mixture can result in tough meatballs. A gentle hand is key to achieving that tender texture we all love.

• Chill before cooking: Allow your formed meatballs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape during cooking, resulting in perfectly round and juicy meatballs.

• Batch cook in a hot pan: Make sure to give your skillet enough time to heat up before adding the meatballs. Cooking in batches prevents overcrowding, which ensures that they get that lovely golden-brown crust while staying moist inside.

• Taste test your tzatziki: The beauty of tzatziki lies in its balance of flavors. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning or add a splash more lemon juice; this will make sure your sauce complements those delicious meatballs perfectly!

How to Serve Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Serving these juicy Greek chicken meatballs can turn any meal into a delightful experience! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh dill: Sprinkle some chopped dill on top of your tzatziki or meatballs for an added touch of flavor and color.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice over their meatballs for an extra zesty kick.
• Cherry tomatoes: Adding halved cherry tomatoes not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing sweetness that pairs well with the savory meatballs.

Side Dishes

• Greek salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil and oregano complements the flavors of the chicken meatballs perfectly.
• Couscous or quinoa: These grains absorb flavors beautifully and offer a light, fluffy texture that makes them a great base for serving alongside your meatballs.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant add delicious flavors to your plate while keeping things healthy.
• Pita bread or flatbreads: Soft pita or flatbreads can be used for scooping up tzatziki and enjoying the meatballs, making every bite delightful!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your culinary skills! Enjoy every bite of these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making dinner a breeze.

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.
• Reheat meatballs in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in short intervals until warm, checking regularly to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delicious meatballs? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use turkey instead of chicken for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well with the same seasonings and preparation method.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Can I make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the meatballs and tzatziki sauce ahead of time. They store beautifully for future meals!

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

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

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!