Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner that bursts with fresh flavors and Mediterranean flair, this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine juicy chicken meatballs dotted with herbs, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes, all paired with a zesty homemade tzatziki sauce. Every bite is savory, aromatic, and ultra-satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping, serving a weeknight family dinner, or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious—and honestly, it’s one you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how accessible and straightforward the ingredients are for this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe. Each element plays a starring role—bringing juicy texture, vivid color, and punchy flavor to every bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Ground chicken: Go for thigh meat if you can for the juiciest, most flavorful meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular breadcrumbs act as a binder and keep the meatballs tender.
• Egg: Helps hold everything together for cohesive, never-crumbly meatballs.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses bold, aromatic flavor into every bite.
• Red onion: Adds a colorful crunch and a little sweetness to balance the herbs and spice.
• Fresh parsley: For a pop of green and a burst of freshness that lifts the entire dish.
• Fresh mint: Delivers classic Mediterranean fragrance and lightness to the mixture.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled feta melts into pockets of tangy, creamy richness.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Give the meatballs a sweet-tart, umami burst and gorgeous color.
• Ground cumin: Earthy depth that makes every bite extra savory.
• Ground coriander: Subtle, lemony undertone that’s perfect with chicken.
• Dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb, adding quintessential aroma and warmth.
• Salt: Enhances all flavors and makes the aromatics and herbs pop.
• Black pepper: For just the right kick without overpowering the delicate herbs and cheese.
• Olive oil: Used for frying, this brings a little added richness and that irresistible Mediterranean flavor.
• Greek yogurt: The creamy, protein-rich base for your homemade tzatziki sauce.
• Cucumber: Grated and thoroughly drained, it gives tzatziki its signature cool, crisp bite.
• Fresh dill: Chopped dill brings a hint of grassy brightness perfect for the sauce.
• Lemon juice: Adds zing and cuts through the richness for perfect balance.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl—trust me, the extra space is worth it. Combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and egg to form a base. Then, add in all the magic: minced garlic, red onion, parsley, fresh mint, crumbled feta, and those punchy sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together (your hands work best here) just until well combined. Take care not to overwork the mixture so your meatballs stay light and tender.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

With your hands slightly dampened (a little trick to prevent sticking!), scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each perfectly-formed meatball onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should have about 20-24 meatballs—enough to feed a hungry crew or guarantee leftovers for midday cravings.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Once shimmering, nestle the meatballs in (in batches, if needed), making sure not to overcrowd. Fry them for 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully to ensure an even, golden-brown crust and fully cooked centers. For a lighter, hands-off alternative, you can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, until golden and cooked through—so effortless for busy nights!

Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs are sizzling, grate your cucumber (skin on for extra color and nutrients, if you like). Wrap it up in a kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible; this step prevents watery sauce later. In a bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste and tweak the seasonings to your liking. The result is a creamy, zippy sauce that’s an irresistible match for your meatballs.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs—parsley, mint, or dill—adds not just color but a final burst of flavor on top of your Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe. Crumbled feta or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil turns the presentation into a Mediterranean feast for the eyes (and tastebuds).

Side Dishes

These meatballs absolutely shine with a side of warm pita bread, herbed rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables. Want more greens? Serve with a big Greek salad or a bed of crisp, lemony arugula. Each option complements the flavors in the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For an appetizer platter, nestle the meatballs on toothpicks alongside the tzatziki for easy dipping. Or, stuff them inside pita pockets with crunchy cucumbers, tomatoes, and a slather of sauce for the ultimate lunch. Another fun twist: layer them over couscous or quinoa bowls with chopped veggies and olives. The Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe adapts beautifully to whatever style you’re craving!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover meatballs and tzatziki keep well in the fridge. Store the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe in an airtight container for up to four days, and keep the sauce separately to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked (but cooled) meatballs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. The tzatziki sauce doesn’t freeze well, so whip up a fresh batch when ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat, place meatballs on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. Or, simply microwave in short bursts, checking often. Serve with a fresh dollop of tzatziki, and the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is just as delicious as day one.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, especially thigh meat, works beautifully in this recipe and gives the meatballs a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.

Are these Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, simply swap the breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative or ground oats. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe easy to adapt.

What’s the best way to keep meatballs juicy?

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; gentle handling keeps them light and moist. Using thigh meat also ensures the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe stays super juicy.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Definitely! Baking is a great hands-off method—simply arrange the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning once for even browning.

What else can I use tzatziki sauce for?

Tzatziki is incredibly versatile—serve as a dip with veggies, dollop on grilled meats, or spread in wraps and sandwiches beyond just pairing it with the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is one you’ll want to put on repeat. Bursting with herbs, briny feta, and sun-dried tomato goodness, it brings a sunny Mediterranean vibe right to your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own touches—don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!

Print