Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground chicken; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup finely diced red onion; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon olive oil, for frying; Chopped romaine lettuce; Feta cheese, for serving; Cucumber; Tomato; White rice; Tzatziki sauce

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 13 reviews

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If you are searching for a vibrant and mouthwatering dish that’s both wholesome and bursting with Mediterranean charm, look no further than this Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe. These tender meatballs are infused with fresh herbs and warm spices, creating a flavor profile that’s as inviting as a sunny Greek afternoon. Paired with cooling tzatziki sauce, they make a perfect crowd-pleaser that’s speedy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to serve guests. Every bite is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in delicious harmony.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In the image, there is a clear glass bowl filled with a soft, pale pink mixture that has a slightly chunky texture. The mixture is speckled with small bits of green herbs and tiny pieces of purple onion scattered throughout. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and around it, there are fresh green herb leaves placed casually to the left and the upper right side, adding a fresh touch to the scene. A beige cloth is partly visible at the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in delivering the authentic flavors, balancing the herbs, spices, and textures for meatballs that are juicy and aromatic.

2 pounds ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps these meatballs tender and light.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors in the meat and herbs.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that enhances every other ingredient.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Introduces a warm, earthy background note that complements the chicken beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon ground oregano: A classic Greek herb that provides a fragrant, slightly peppery layer.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to enliven the dish without overpowering it.
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped: Brings bright, grassy freshness that makes these meatballs irresistibly vibrant.
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped: Offers a cooling contrast to the spices, keeping the palate lively.
1/4 cup finely diced red onion: Adds crunch and a subtle sweetness when cooked.
4 cloves garlic, finely minced: Garlic is a must for that unmistakable savory depth.
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Infuses the mixture with a zesty brightness that wakes up the taste buds.
1 tablespoon olive oil, for frying: Used to achieve that golden, succulent crust on the meatballs.
Tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies for serving: Classic accompaniments that add creaminess, crunch, and freshness.

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Ingredients

Start by combining all your meatball ingredients in a mixing bowl. Using your hands to gently blend the ground chicken, herbs, spices, onion, garlic, and lemon zest ensures everything is evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite. Don’t overwork the mixture to keep those meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Using either a cookie dough scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the mixture and roll it into perfectly round meatballs. This step is great for involving kids or guests in the kitchen to bring everyone closer to the magic in the making.

Step 3: Sear and Cook the Meatballs

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Carefully add your meatballs in batches, leaving space to prevent overcrowding. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This quick searing locks in moisture while building a delicious crust.

Step 4: Prepare for Serving

Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the pan and let them rest briefly. This allows the juices to redistribute and the flavors to settle, making each bite more satisfying.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

A white bowl filled with several layers starting with a bed of fresh green lettuce at the bottom. On top, there are golden-brown grilled meatballs clustered on the left side, surrounded by crumbled white cheese. To the right of the meatballs, there are bright red cherry tomato halves layered over some chopped red onions and white rice. Below the meatballs, sliced green cucumbers are topped with white cheese crumbs and green herbs. A creamy white sauce with small green herb bits is spooned on the left bottom corner of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a silver fork resting inside the bowl on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and extra chopped fresh herbs such as dill and mint over the meatballs to amplify that fresh Greek vibe. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds a delightful pop of acidity that ties everything together.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beautifully with simple, colorful sides like crisp chopped romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, refreshing cucumber slices, and fluffy white rice. These sides complement the meatballs perfectly with their contrasting textures and mild flavors.

Creative Ways to Present Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

For a fun twist, serve the meatballs on pita bread with extra tzatziki to create handheld gyro-style sandwiches. Alternatively, layer them over a vibrant salad or even turn them into appetizer skewers with alternating veggies for parties and get-togethers. The versatility is endless and fun to experiment with!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making lunch or dinner prep a breeze for busy days.

Freezing

To save for longer, freeze the meatballs on a baking sheet until firm, then move them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months, so you always have a quick Greek-inspired bite ready to go.

Reheating

Reheat leftover meatballs gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or warm them in the oven to keep them moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slower reheating helps maintain their juicy texture and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well in this recipe, although the flavor will be slightly milder. Just keep an eye on cooking times to avoid drying out the meatballs.

Is it necessary to add red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that balances the herbs beautifully, but you can leave them out if you prefer a milder taste. The recipe still shines without the spice.

How do I make homemade tzatziki sauce?

Homemade tzatziki is easy to whip up with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, and a touch of olive oil. It’s fresh, creamy, and perfectly complements the meatballs.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, for a hands-off approach, bake the meatballs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to brown evenly. This method is slightly healthier and just as tasty.

What’s the best way to serve this recipe for a party?

For gatherings, serve these meatballs as appetizers with toothpicks, accompanied by small bowls of tzatziki. This makes for easy grabbing and sharing among guests, sure to be a hit!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe enough! It’s a delightful blend of fresh herbs, spices, and creamy sauce that brings a little taste of Greece right to your kitchen. Whether for a quick family dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends, these meatballs deliver both comfort and sophistication. Give this recipe a try soon—you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.

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Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need