Opa Greek Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Tzatziki

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a Trip to Greece? (Without the Airfare!)

Ever daydreamed of sun-soaked Greek islands? Honestly, me too! Craving that fresh, vibrant Mediterranean vibe? Well, you're in for a treat.

This Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki recipe is like a little holiday on a plate. It is easy and so flavorful.

These are so much better than average boring burgers.

A Little Bit of Greece in Your Kitchen

Greek dishes are all about fresh ingredients and simple flavors. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds. These Mediterranean meatballs are easy to make.

This easy Greek recipe takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to make around 4 servings. It's perfect for a quick lunch or sharing with friends.

Enjoy!

Why You'll Love These Greek Chicken Meatballs

These aren't just any meatballs. These juicy chicken meatballs are packed with fresh herbs. They also have salty feta and a zing of lemon.

Plus, the creamy homemade tzatziki sauce is the perfect cooling complement. It's a lighter, healthier alternative to beef. Looking for Greek appetizers to impress? This recipe is what you need.

Did you know that a Mediterranean diet can help improve heart health? Pretty cool, eh? So get your "Greek on" with this Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki recipe.

What Makes These Meatballs So Special?

Honestly, what sets this recipe apart is that amazing combination of flavors. The feta meatball recipe adds a salty tang.

The Tzatziki sauce recipe makes it oh-so-refreshing. I reckon it is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Serve it with some warm pita bread and you will be sorted.

Fancy a variation? You could try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a little kick. Now, lets gather our ingredients for this Greek Meatballs Recipe !

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Greek Party Started!

Alright, lovelies, before we dive headfirst into these utterly divine Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki , let's get our ducks in a row.

Trust me, a little prep goes a long way. Especially if you're like me and tend to get a bit, shall we say, ensoiastic in the kitchen.

This is an easy Greek recipe , but being organized makes it even EASIER. I use to make a whole mess, but now i love to have everything ready!

Main Ingredients for the Meatballs (Oh My Goodness, the Flavour!)

Okay, here's the lowdown on what you'll need for those Mediterranean Meatballs , broken down so it's dead easy. No stress, promise!

• Ground Chicken: 1.5 lb (that's 680g for you metric mavens). Get good quality chicken, not that pale, watery stuff. You want it to look pink and fresh.
• Breadcrumbs: ½ cup ( 50g ). Panko is my go-to for extra crispness, but regular breadcrumbs work in a pinch.
• Feta Cheese: ½ cup ( 50g ), crumbled. Go for a block of feta in brine, not the pre-crumbled stuff. It tastes SO much better. Seriously.
• Red Onion: ¼ cup ( 30g ), finely chopped. Red onion adds a little tang.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best, always.
• Fresh Oregano & Parsley: 2 tablespoons each, finely chopped. Fresh herbs are KEY for that authentic Greek dishes flavour.
• Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten. Binds everything together, like a little glue.
• Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon . Adds a lovely zing.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon . For flavour and moisture.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon

Tzatziki Time: The Cooling Counterpart

Honestly, what are Greek Chicken Meatballs without Homemade Tzatziki ? Imagine serve this Greek Appetizers in a party with friends! The Tzatziki Sauce Recipe is so easy!

• Greek Yogurt: 1 cup ( 240g ). Full fat is the way to go. Trust me, it's worth it.
• Cucumber: ½ cup ( 60g ), grated and squeezed dry. Squeezing is crucial, otherwise, you'll end up with watery tzatziki.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. More if you're feeling brave.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh Dill: 1 tablespoon , chopped.
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon
• Black Pepper: ⅛ teaspoon

Seasoning Notes: Herbs and Spices, Oh My!

This is where the magic happens. Don't be shy with those herbs!

• Essential Combo: Oregano, parsley, and dill are your Greek dishes holy trinity.
• Flavour Boosters: Lemon zest and garlic bring a brightness.
• Quick Subs: No fresh oregano? Dried works. Just use about 1 teaspoon .

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Silly!

You don't need a fancy kitchen to make these Greek Meatballs Recipe .

• Large Mixing Bowl: For, well, mixing.
• Grater: For the cucumber and lemon zest.
• Garlic Press: Optional, but it makes life easier.
• Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Large Skillet: Or frying pan. Get ready to cook!

And that's it! Nothing too scary, right? Now that we have the ingredient list, let's get cooking! This Feta Meatball Recipe it's easy peasy, follow me!

Cooking Those Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki

Alright, let's talk about how to actually cook these Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki . We've prepped everything, now it’s time to get cooking. Don’t panic! It’s easier than you think.

Prep Steps: Your Foundation for Success

First, make sure all your ingredients are ready. Mise en place , darling! This means having your Greek Meatballs Recipe ingredients measured, chopped, and ready to go.

Honestly, this makes life SO much easier. For the tzatziki, remember to squeeze the cucumber dry. This step is key for Homemade Tzatziki .

No one wants watery sauce. Finally, a quick safety reminder. Wash your hands before starting and be careful with hot pans, alright?

The step-by-step Tango

1. Tzatziki Time: Mix all Tzatziki Sauce Recipe ingredients together. Put it in the fridge. This step can be done way in advance!
2. Meatball Mashup: Gently mix your meatball ingredients. Be gentle, don't overmix!
3. Chill Out: Cover the meatball mix and chill for 30 minutes . This helps them stick together.
4. Roll, Baby, Roll: Roll into 1 inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet.
5. Sizzle Time: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook 'Em Up: Cook the Chicken Meatballs , turning, until browned and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165° F ( 74° C) .
7. Serve Like a Greek God: Serve warm with a big dollop of your Easy Greek Recipe tzatziki.

Pro Tips: From Zero to Hero

Don't overmix those meatballs! Seriously, that’s the biggest mistake. Overmixing makes them tough. You want tender Mediterranean Meatballs , you know? Also, make the tzatziki ahead of time.

Flavors meld so much better. It also prevents the problem of having a watery sauce. Seriously! And, if you're short on time, you can bake the meatballs at 400° F ( 200° C) for 15- 20 minutes ! This is also a healthier option.

So, there you have it. My totally foolproof way to make some killer Greek Chicken Meatballs ! Now get in the kitchen, give this Feta Meatball Recipe a try and tell me what you think! These Greek Appetizers are guaranteed to impress! Trust me on this one.

Right, let's talk about the "after party" for our Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki . The cooking's done, the aromas are amazing, and now what? Here's a few bits, gleaned from my own kitchen adventures, that'll help you serve, store, and generally enjoy these little Greek appetizers to the max!

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions That Pop

Honestly, presentation matters. Don't just throw those chicken meatballs on a plate! A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil? Yes please! Fresh dill sprigs? Always.

I sometimes like to serve them nestled in warm pita bread with a big dollop of that homemade Tzatziki . Oh my gosh, a vibrant Greek salad on the side? Chef's kiss! For drinks, think chilled white wine, like something crisp and refreshing.

You know? It makes you feel like you're on holiday! For plating, I love serving these in a shallow bowl, really showing off that gorgeous tzatziki.

Storing Tips: No Food Waste Here!

So, you've made a batch of these delicious Mediterranean meatballs . What to do with leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container and they'll be happy in the fridge for 3-4 days .

Freezing? Totally doable. Freeze the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They'll last for up to 3 months .

Reheating is simple. Either microwave them (easy peasy), or gently warm them in a skillet with a touch of olive oil.

Just make sure they're heated through to 165° F ( 74° C) .

Variations: Because We All Have Our "Thing"

Want to make it your own? I get it. For a gluten-free version, swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour.

Easy peasy. Feeling fancy? Try adding some sun-dried tomatoes to the Feta Meatball Recipe mixture. For a seasonal twist, use courgette (zucchini) in the meatballs during summer.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Alright, let's be real. These Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki aren't exactly health food. But they're not bad either! Greek Chicken is a good source of protein.

Feta adds calcium. Plus, you get those healthy fats from the olive oil. The Tzatziki gives you a dose of probiotics from the yogurt.

You know, good stuff for the gut.

Honestly, though, I'm not a nutritionist. I just love Easy Greek Recipes . So, enjoy these Greek Dishes in moderation, as part of a balanced diet.

Okay, darlings, that's all folks! Now go get your Greek on. You've got this! I know you're going to nail this Greek Meatballs Recipe .

These Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki are not only delicious, but also a fantastic crowd pleaser, perfect for gatherings and dinner parties.

And remember, cooking should be fun, and this Homemade Tzatziki along with the delicious meatballs can transform your home into a Greek taverna.

Enjoy the process, experiment with different spices, and customize this Feta Meatball Recipe to your liking. Bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki ahead of time? I'm prepping for a party!

Absolutely! The tzatziki sauce actually benefits from sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavours to meld. You can also prepare the meatball mixture in advance, but wait to cook them until just before serving for the best texture. Uncooked meatballs can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

My tzatziki sauce is too watery. What did I do wrong? Is there any way to save it?

The key to a thick and creamy tzatziki is properly squeezing the cucumber! Cucumber holds a lot of water. Use cheesecloth or a sturdy paper towel to wring out as much moisture as possible before mixing it with the yogurt.

If your sauce is already watery, try adding a tablespoon or two of Greek yogurt that's been strained through cheesecloth for a thicker consistency.

I'm trying to eat healthier. Can I bake the Greek Chicken Meatballs instead of frying them?

You certainly can! Baking the meatballs is a great way to reduce the amount of oil used. Simply bake them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they're cooked through and golden brown.

This option makes them a bit healthier, without compromising much on the flavour.

I'm not a big fan of chicken. Can I substitute another type of meat in these Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki recipe?

Yes, feel free to experiment! Ground lamb is a classic Greek choice and adds a richer flavour. You could also use ground turkey or even a mix of ground beef and lamb. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is cooked through.

How long will leftover Greek Chicken Meatballs & Tzatziki last in the fridge?

Leftover meatballs will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. The tzatziki is best consumed within 2-3 days. Keep in mind, the tzatziki may release a little more liquid over time. Reheat the meatballs gently in a skillet or microwave, and give the tzatziki a good stir before serving.

Can I freeze the Greek Chicken Meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs! Cook them first, then let them cool completely before freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They'll keep for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven or skillet until heated through.

Freezing the tzatziki is not recommended, as it can change the texture.