Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 egg; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber (grated and drained); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 tbsp lemon juice

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a tasty and healthy meal option? Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki is here to impress! This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of Greece with the ease of a homemade meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, these meatballs are packed with flavor and served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it is simple to make and requires minimal ingredients. Second, using ground chicken makes it a lighter option compared to traditional meatballs. The homemade tzatziki sauce adds a cooling element, balancing the savory taste of the meatballs. Plus, this dish can be served in various ways, whether as a main course or appetizer.

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki

Making Greek Chicken Meatballs is easy and fun! Just follow these simple steps.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground chicken
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 egg
1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped red onion, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and egg.
Mix the ingredients until well combined.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet.
Drizzle them with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through.
For the tzatziki, mix together 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cucumber (grated and drained), 1 clove of garlic (minced), 1 tbsp lemon juice, and salt to taste.
Serve the meatballs with tzatziki on the side.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs

These meatballs can be served in many ways. You can enjoy them as an appetizer with the tzatziki sauce for dipping. They also make a fantastic main dish served over rice, or alongside a fresh Greek salad. Add some warm pita bread, and you have a complete meal!

How to Store Greek Chicken Meatballs

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.

Tips to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs

Be sure to not overmix the meat mixture, which can make the meatballs tough.
For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
If you prefer a crispier exterior, broil the meatballs for the last few minutes of cooking.

Variation

Want to switch it up? You can use ground turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor. You could also add feta cheese to the meat mixture for a tangy twist!

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of meat for the meatballs?
Yes! Ground turkey or pork work great as alternatives.

2. How do I make the tzatziki sauce dairy-free?
You can use coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt as a substitute for Greek yogurt.

3. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. You can also freeze them uncooked and bake when you’re ready to eat.