The Ultimate Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe: Juicy, Herby & So Flavorful!

Hello, WiseRecipes community and fellow lovers of fresh Mediterranean flavors! Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece with a dish that’s both incredibly delicious and refreshingly healthy? Today, I’m so excited to share my Ultimate Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe – a vibrant, herby, and utterly irresistible take on classic meatballs!

Forget heavy, dense meatballs. These Greek Chicken Meatballs are light, tender, and bursting with bright flavors like lemon, oregano, dill, and a delightful salty tang from feta cheese. This easy baked greek chicken meatballs (or pan-fried!) method creates perfectly juicy morsels that are perfect as a main course, a delightful appetizer, or even tucked into a pita. This is one of the best homemade greek meatballs recipe with herbs you’ll find!

My journey to perfecting this Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe was all about capturing that authentic Mediterranean essence while keeping the process simple and the ingredients wholesome. We’re using lean ground chicken, fresh herbs, and those signature Greek seasonings to create a healthy mediterranean chicken meatballs with feta dish that doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s become a go-to for a quick weeknight chicken meatballs lemon oregano dinner in my home, and I know you’ll love it too.

So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s packed with personality, easy to make, and incredibly versatile, let’s get rolling (literally!) and create these amazing juicy ground chicken meatballs greek style!

Why This Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

If the thought of herby, lemony, feta-studded chicken meatballs isn’t enough, here’s why this Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe is a true winner:

• Bursting with Fresh Greek Flavors: Lemon, oregano, dill, mint, garlic, and feta cheese combine for an authentic and vibrant taste experience. This is the heart of any great Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe.
• Incredibly Juicy & Tender: Using ground chicken and the right binders ensures these meatballs are delightfully moist, not dry.
• Healthy & Lean Option: A fantastic way to enjoy meatballs using leaner ground chicken and packed with fresh herbs. This is a perfect healthy mediterranean chicken meatballs with feta choice.
• Easy to Make (Baked or Pan-Fried): We’ll cover both simple cooking methods, so you can choose what works best for you.
• Versatile Serving Possibilities: Amazing on their own, with tzatziki sauce, in pitas, over orzo or rice, or as part of a Greek mezze platter.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer or Main: These meatballs are always a hit, whether served as small bites or a hearty main course.

Gather Your Mediterranean Essentials: Ingredients for Greek Chicken Meatballs

Let’s get our fresh and aromatic ingredients ready for this delightful Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe.

Key Ingredients (Makes approx. 20-24 meatballs):

• Ground Chicken: 1.5 lbs (preferably not extra-lean, a little fat helps with moisture).
• Yellow Onion: ½ medium, very finely grated or minced (grating helps it meld into the meatballs).
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, finely chopped.
• Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (or 1-2 tsp dried dill).
• Fresh Mint (Optional but Recommended): 1 tablespoon, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried mint).
• Dried Oregano: 1 ½ teaspoons (preferably Greek oregano).
• Lemon Zest: From 1 large lemon.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon.
• Feta Cheese: ½ cup, crumbled.
• Plain Breadcrumbs (or Panko): ¼ cup (plus a little more if mixture is too wet).
• Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (for the mixture, plus more for cooking if pan-frying).
• Salt: ¾ teaspoon, or to taste (remember feta is salty).
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste.

For Serving (Optional):

• Tzatziki Sauce (highly recommended!)
• Pita Bread, warmed
• Lemon Wedges
• Fresh Dill or Parsley, for garnish
• Cucumber & Tomato Salad
• Cooked Orzo or Rice

Crafting Your Herby Delights: Step-by-Step to Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs

Let’s roll up our sleeves and create this vibrant Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe!

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, finely grated/minced onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, optional chopped fresh mint, dried oregano, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup breadcrumbs, lightly beaten egg, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
2. Mix Gently but Thoroughly: Using your hands (the best tool for this!), gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough. The mixture should be moist but able to hold its shape. If it feels overly wet, add another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs until it’s manageable. This gentle touch is key for juicy ground chicken meatballs greek style.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

1. Portion and Roll: Lightly wet your hands with cold water (this helps prevent sticking). Scoop out portions of the chicken mixture (about 1.5 tablespoons each for medium-sized meatballs, or 1 tablespoon for smaller appetizer meatballs).
2. Roll into Balls: Gently roll the mixture between your palms to form smooth, round meatballs. Aim for a consistent size so they cook evenly.
3. Arrange: Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (if baking) or a clean plate if pan-frying immediately. You should get about 20-24 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Greek Chicken Meatballs (Choose Your Method)

Method 1: Baking (Easy & Healthier)

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure your parchment-lined baking sheet is ready.
2. Arrange Meatballs: Place the meatballs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
3. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown, cooked through, and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. You can flip them halfway through baking for more even browning if desired. This is a great method for an easy baked greek chicken meatballs dish.

Method 2: Pan-Frying (Crispier Exterior)

1. Heat Oil: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook Meatballs in Batches: Carefully place the meatballs in the hot skillet in a single layer, being sure not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary).
3. Brown on All Sides: Cook the meatballs for about 8-12 minutes total, turning them gently every few minutes with tongs or a spatula, until they are nicely browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
4. Drain (If Needed): If there’s excess oil, you can briefly place the cooked meatballs on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Serve Your Delicious Greek Creations!

1. Garnish: Sprinkle your perfectly cooked Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe with extra fresh dill or parsley.
2. Serve Warm: Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments. They are fantastic with a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges for squeezing, and warm pita bread. This best homemade greek meatballs recipe with herbs is sure to be a hit!

Wise Tips for the Most Flavorful Greek Chicken Meatballs

Elevate your Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe from great to exceptional with these insights:

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing ground meat can lead to tough meatballs. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
• Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: While dried herbs are used for oregano, fresh dill, parsley, and mint (if using) add an irreplaceable brightness and authentic flavor to your Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe.
• Grate the Onion: Finely grating the onion (or mincing it very, very finely) helps it disappear into the meatball, infusing flavor without large chunks.
• Feta Quality: Use a good quality block of feta cheese and crumble it yourself for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-crumbled feta that might have anti-caking agents.
• Consistent Size: Try to make your meatballs a uniform size so they cook evenly. A small cookie scoop can be helpful for portioning.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan/Baking Sheet: Whether baking or pan-frying, give the meatballs space. This allows them to brown properly rather than steam. This is especially important for a quick weeknight chicken meatballs lemon oregano result.

Delicious Serving Ideas & Variations

This Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe is wonderfully versatile:

• Classic Greek Platter: Serve with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, a Greek salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onion), and perhaps some lemon wedges.
• Meatball Gyros/Pitas: Stuff warm pita breads with the meatballs, tzatziki, shredded lettuce, tomato, and onion.
• Over Orzo or Rice: Serve atop fluffy cooked orzo, rice pilaf, or quinoa, perhaps with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
• In a Lemon-Herb Broth: Simmer the cooked meatballs in a light lemon-herb chicken broth for a comforting soup-like dish.
• Appetizer Power: Make them smaller and serve with toothpicks and various dipping sauces for a party.
• Add Spinach: Finely chop some fresh spinach and mix it into the meatball mixture for added greens.

Storing & Reheating Your Herby Meatballs

Enjoying your Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe later is easy:

• Storage: Store leftover cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating:
  • Oven/Toaster Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Skillet: Reheat gently in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat until warmed.
  • Microwave: Possible, but they might not retain their best texture. Heat in short intervals.
• Freezing: Cooked meatballs freeze well! Let them cool completely, then place on a baking sheet in a single layer to flash freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs, then thaw and cook as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Your common questions about these Mediterranean delights:

1. Can I use ground turkey or lamb instead of chicken for this Greek Meatballs recipe?
   Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey would be a very similar lean alternative. Ground lamb would provide a richer, more traditional Greek flavor profile and would be delicious. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
2. My meatballs are a bit dry. What can I do next time?
   Ensure you’re not using extra-lean ground chicken; a little fat adds moisture. Don’t overmix the meatball mixture. Be careful not to overcook them; use a meat thermometer to pull them out once they reach 165°F (74°C). Grating the onion instead of dicing can also add more moisture.
3. What if I don’t have fresh dill or mint?
   You can use dried herbs, but the flavor will be different and less vibrant. For dried dill, use about 1-2 teaspoons. For dried mint, use about ½ teaspoon. Fresh parsley is more forgiving if substituted with dried (use about 1-2 teaspoons).
4. Are these meatballs gluten-free?
   If you use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs (or omit them and ensure the mixture isn’t too wet), this Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe can easily be gluten-free. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if needed.
5. What is tzatziki sauce, and is it easy to make?
   Tzatziki sauce is a classic Greek yogurt-based sauce made with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill or mint. It’s very easy to make at home and is the perfect accompaniment to these Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe creations! (Perhaps a future WiseRecipes post!)

This Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe is a fantastic way to bring bright, healthy, and incredibly flavorful Mediterranean vibes to your dinner table. It’s an easy baked greek chicken meatballs (or pan-fried!) option that’s packed with fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and savory feta, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy mediterranean chicken meatballs with feta meal or a quick weeknight chicken meatballs lemon oregano dish, these deliver.

I am so excited for you to try this best homemade greek meatballs recipe with herbs and experience just how delicious and satisfying juicy ground chicken meatballs greek style can be. If you make them, please come back and share your thoughts and favorite serving suggestions in the comments below! Happy cooking!