Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

There's something truly special about the aroma of Greek Chicken Meatballs sizzling on the stovetop. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh herbs, and warm Mediterranean spices fills the kitchen with an inviting scent that promises a delicious meal ahead.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe during a summer trip to the Greek islands. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of local tavernas, I brought this version home and it quickly became a staple in our weekly rotation. It's quick, easy, and always a hit with family and friends, no matter the occasion.

Let’s dive right in and see why this dish deserves a spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Meatballs

Get ready to meet your new favorite weeknight dinner! These Greek Chicken Meatballs are bursting with flavor, while still being simple enough to whip up any day of the week.

First, they're incredibly quick and easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings when time is limited but you still want a home-cooked meal.

Second, this recipe is wonderfully healthy and light. Using ground chicken keeps the meatballs lean, while fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest pack them with flavor without the need for heavy sauces or fried coatings.

Third, it's extremely budget-friendly. Ground chicken, pantry staples, and a few fresh ingredients come together to create a meal that’s affordable without sacrificing taste or quality.

Lastly, these meatballs are amazingly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer, tuck them into pita bread with tzatziki, or pair them with a simple Greek salad for a complete meal. They even make fantastic meal prep lunches for the week ahead.

With so many benefits, it's no wonder these Greek Chicken Meatballs have earned a permanent place in my recipe rotation. Now let’s take a closer look at what goes into making them.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating those bright, fresh flavors that make Greek cuisine so irresistible.

Ground chicken is the star of this dish. I prefer using ground chicken thigh for extra juiciness and flavor, but ground chicken breast works well too if you’re looking for a leaner option. Either way, the chicken provides a neutral base that soaks up all the wonderful Greek seasonings.

Fresh herbs are what truly bring these meatballs to life. A generous amount of chopped parsley and dill adds brightness and a touch of earthiness. If you have fresh oregano on hand, that’s a fantastic addition as well, though dried oregano can be substituted in a pinch.

Garlic and onion add depth and aromatic flavor. Finely grated onion blends seamlessly into the meat mixture, keeping the meatballs moist, while minced garlic delivers a savory punch that balances beautifully with the herbs.

Lemon zest is the secret ingredient that elevates these meatballs. A bit of finely grated lemon zest adds a hint of citrus that cuts through the richness and ties all the flavors together perfectly.

To bring everything together, you’ll need a simple binder: an egg and some breadcrumbs. I like to use panko breadcrumbs for their light texture, which keeps the meatballs tender without being dense.

For equipment, all you need is a mixing bowl, a skillet or baking sheet, and a zester for the lemon. A small cookie scoop can also be helpful for forming evenly sized meatballs.

How To Make This Greek Chicken Meatballs

Making these Greek Chicken Meatballs couldn’t be simpler, but there are a few tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time.

Start by preparing your ingredients. Finely grate the onion, mince the garlic, chop the fresh herbs, and zest the lemon. Having everything prepped before you mix will make the process smooth and quick.

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, egg, and breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Next, form the mixture into evenly sized balls, about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter. If the mixture feels sticky, lightly wet your hands to make rolling easier.

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning to ensure they brown evenly and cook through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

If you prefer, you can also bake the meatballs. Simply arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked and golden brown.

From start to finish, the entire process takes about 30 minutes. You'll end up with tender, flavorful meatballs that pair wonderfully with your favorite sides or sauces.

Storage Options

These Greek Chicken Meatballs store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. Simply reheat as needed for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

For longer storage, these meatballs freeze exceptionally well. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, you can reheat them directly from frozen in the oven or microwave.

To reheat refrigerated meatballs, simply warm them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or heat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these Greek Chicken Meatballs is how easily they can be customized to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

For a different protein, you can substitute ground turkey or even ground lamb for a richer, more traditional Greek flavor profile.

If you prefer a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with almond flour. The texture remains wonderfully tender and flavorful.

To make these meatballs dairy-free, skip the optional feta cheese often added to the mix or served on top. They’re still absolutely delicious without it.

For an added punch of flavor, consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or crumbled feta directly into the meatball mixture. This adds little bursts of savory, tangy goodness in every bite.

And of course, feel free to play around with the herbs and seasonings. Adding a touch of mint or a sprinkle of za'atar can give the meatballs a unique twist while staying true to their Mediterranean roots.

Don’t be afraid to experiment — that’s the joy of home cooking. Each batch can be a little different and still absolutely delicious.

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