Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs

These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and packed with fresh herbs and spices. Made with lean ground chicken, garlic, and aromatic seasonings, these meatballs are perfect for a healthy and delicious meal. Serve them with tzatziki sauce, over rice, in a pita, or alongside roasted vegetables for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and high-protein – Made with lean ground chicken and fresh ingredients.
• Easy to make – Comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Juicy and flavorful – A perfect blend of Mediterranean herbs and spices.
• Versatile – Serve in pita bread, over couscous, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
• Meal-prep friendly – Stores and reheats well for quick meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground chicken
• Breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
• Egg
• Red onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Fresh dill or mint (chopped)
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
• Olive oil (for cooking)

Directions

1. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, dill (or mint), cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Form the meatballs: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into small meatballs.
3. Cook the meatballs:
   • Stovetop: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
   • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a lined sheet pan for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Serve: Enjoy with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a Mediterranean salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-20 minutes (depending on method)
• Total Time: 20-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Cheesy meatballs: Mix in crumbled feta cheese.
• Low-carb: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
• Extra herbs: Try basil or oregano for more Mediterranean flavor.
• Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey works just as well.

How do I prevent dry meatballs?

Don’t overmix the meat, and avoid overcooking. Adding a little olive oil or yogurt helps.

What’s the best sauce for these meatballs?

Tzatziki, hummus, or a lemon garlic yogurt sauce pairs perfectly.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.

What can I serve with Mediterranean meatballs?

Couscous, quinoa, roasted vegetables, pita bread, or a Greek salad.

How do I make them gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, make and refrigerate the mixture up to 24 hours before cooking.

What’s the best way to shape the meatballs?

Use damp hands or a cookie scoop to form evenly sized meatballs.

Do I need to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs add great flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch (use half the amount).

Can I cook these on the grill?

Yes! Skewer them or cook them in a grill pan.

Conclusion

These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and healthy meal packed with bold flavors. Whether served in pita, over rice, or with a flavorful dip, they’re an easy way to bring Mediterranean flavors to your table. Try them today for a quick and satisfying dish!

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