Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs and spices creates a symphony of flavors that excite the palate.

  • Healthy Option: Made primarily with lean chicken, they provide a nutritious and protein-packed meal.

  • Easy to Prepare: The straightforward steps make this dish accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.

  • Versatile: Serve them in various ways — with pasta, in a salad, or with pita and tzatziki for a complete meal.

  • Family-Friendly: The delicious flavors are appealing to both adults and kids, making them a favorite for family dinners.

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs can be made in advance and stored for later use, perfect for busy lifestyles.

Ingredients

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

  • 1 pound ground chicken

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole grain)

  • 1 large egg

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • Olive oil (for cooking)

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and egg.

  2. Add the chopped parsley, dill, dried oregano, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  3. Mix all the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.

  4. With damp hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1-1.5 inches in diameter.

  5. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

  6. Gently add the meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

  7. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

  8. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

  • Resting Time: 5-10 minutes

  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

  • Dairy-Free: Omit any dairy-based sauces or toppings.

  • Spicy Kick: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

  • Different Proteins: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, or over a bed of rice or couscous.

Can I prepare the meat mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well combined and not too wet. Add more breadcrumbs if needed.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated. Use one-third the amount of dried compared to fresh.

Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they store and reheat well, making them perfect for meal prep.

Can I make these meatballs in an air fryer?

Yes, cook them in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I freeze the uncooked meatballs?

Yes, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag. Thaw before cooking.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or a lemon tahini dressing pair beautifully with the meatballs.

Can I use pre-ground chicken breast?

Yes, but ground chicken thigh will provide a juicier result due to its higher fat content.

Conclusion

Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy bold Mediterranean flavors at home. With a blend of herbs, citrus, and tender chicken, this recipe delivers satisfying bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or serving a crowd, these meatballs are sure to impress with their taste and versatility.


Print

Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs

Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful, protein-packed Mediterranean recipe made with fresh herbs, lemon, and lean ground chicken. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners, they’re easy to make and incredibly versatile — serve with tzatziki, salads, or in pita wraps for a healthy and satisfying meal.

  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet or Oven-Baked
  • Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken

½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole grain)

1 large egg

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of ½ lemon

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and egg.

  2. Add parsley, dill, oregano, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  3. Mix gently until just combined.

  4. Shape into 1 to 1.5-inch meatballs with damp hands.

  5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

  6. Cook meatballs in batches, 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.

  7. Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  8. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Dairy-Free: Pair with dairy-free sauces like lemon tahini.

Make Ahead: Meat mixture can be prepped and refrigerated for 24 hours.

Alternate Cooking Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Flavor Boost: Add chili flakes or a touch of cumin for a spicy variation.

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments