Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor, then these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. The combination of tender chicken meatballs infused with fresh herbs paired with creamy, cool tzatziki sauce makes it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings.

Imagine sitting around the dinner table, everyone diving into these delicious meatballs, sharing laughs and stories. It’s a dish that brings people together and always leaves them asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With prep and cooking time totaling just 55 minutes, you can whip this up even on the busiest nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the juicy meatballs, and the tzatziki sauce adds a fun twist that they’ll enjoy dipping into.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh herbs, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for an easy meal later. Just cook when you’re ready!
• Versatile Pairing: These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even in wraps for lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Greek chicken meatballs and tzatziki sauce. Trust me; they come together beautifully!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or lean beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil if you want to switch things up.
• Zesty twist: Replace lemon juice in tzatziki with lime juice for a refreshing alternative.

How to Make Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by preparing the chicken meatballs. In a large bowl, combine your ingredients: ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh mint, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients well allows all those lovely flavors to meld together. Remember not to overwork the mixture; this keeps your meatballs tender!

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Once mixed thoroughly but gently, shape your mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs. Aim for about 20 meatballs depending on their size—this will give everyone plenty to enjoy!

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot (but not smoking!), add the meatballs in batches—this prevents overcrowding which can lead to steaming instead of browning! Cook each side until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes), ensuring they’re cooked through—keep an eye on that internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While your meatballs are cooking away happily in their pan, let’s make that refreshing tzatziki sauce! In a medium bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out any excess water), minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is perfectly combined. This sauce is going to elevate your meal!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

After mixing the tzatziki sauce well (and tasting it—you might need that extra pinch of salt!), chill it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This resting time helps all those fantastic flavors come together beautifully! When you’re ready to serve up those juicy Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Making delicious Greek chicken meatballs is all about the little details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your meatballs. Using fresh parsley and mint will give a vibrant taste that dried versions just can’t match.

• Don’t overmix the meat: When combining the ingredients, gently mix them until just combined. Overworking the mixture can result in tough, dense meatballs—nobody wants that!

• Chill before cooking: If you have time, let the formed meatballs chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking.

• Cook in batches: To achieve a nice golden-brown exterior, cook the meatballs in batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of browning.

• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures your chicken meatballs are safe to eat and perfectly juicy!

How to Serve Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Serving your juicy Greek chicken meatballs can be as fun as making them! With a few simple touches, you can create a beautiful presentation that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a bright zing that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some extra chopped parsley or mint over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances richness and brings everything together visually.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese tossed in olive oil and lemon juice perfectly balances the hearty meatballs.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herby salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon offers a nutritious side that’s full of flavor and texture.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant seasoned with olive oil and herbs make for a colorful accompaniment.
• Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up those juicy meatballs and tzatziki sauce—it’s all about enjoying every last bite!

Now you’re ready to serve up these delightful Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki! Whether it’s for dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every flavorful moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are perfect for meal prep! They can be easily made in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs and tzatziki sauce separately in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the meatballs are cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Place cooked chicken meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the meatballs in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
• Serve the tzatziki sauce cold or at room temperature; it doesn’t require reheating.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use turkey instead of chicken for these meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a substitute for chicken, giving you a leaner option while still packing plenty of flavor.

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

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a great alternative! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes or until cooked through.

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

These meatballs pair beautifully with a fresh Greek salad, quinoa, or even wrapped in pita bread for a delicious sandwich option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki as much as I do! This recipe is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!