Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Juicy and tender Greek chicken meatballs paired with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, offering a delightful taste of Mediterranean flavors.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb lean ground chicken Juicy and tender meat that’s less fatty than traditional beef or pork.
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko These breadcrumbs add a unique crunch to the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup grated onion For a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and bursting with flavor, elevating your meatballs.
- 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley A fresh, vibrant herb that brightens up the dish.
- 1/2 large lemon zest The citrusy zing adds a refreshing brightness.
- 1 tsp dried oregano A quintessential herb in Greek cuisine, bringing earthy notes.
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander Offers a warm, nutty flavor.
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin Adds depth and warmth to the meatballs.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together for a perfect meatball consistency.
- 2 oz feta cheese, crumbled Creamy and tangy, it brings a burst of flavor.
- pinch salt and black pepper Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Thick and creamy base rich in protein.
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber Refreshing and juicy, providing a cool contrast. Squeeze out excess moisture.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill Accentuates the flavor with its unique herbaceous notes.
- 1 clove garlic, minced Adds an extra punch of flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens the sauce with acidity.
- to taste salt and pepper To balance the flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients and mix gently until combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 tablespoon in size and place them on the baking sheet.
Cooking
- Bake the meatballs for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce by mixing all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until combined.
- Once the meatballs are done, serve them hot with tzatziki sauce on the side.
Notes
Be careful when mixing to avoid tough meatballs. Consider adding olive oil for moisture if desired. Fresh herbs can be swapped for a different flavor profile. Leftovers can be used in various ways or frozen for future meals.