These Greek chicken meatballs are juicy and full of flavor! Made with ground chicken, herbs, and a touch of feta, they’re perfect for a quick dinner or a tasty appetizer.
They’re super easy to make too! I love cooking them up and serving with a side of tzatziki. Plus, my kitchen smells amazing while they bake—who can resist that?
Whether you enjoy them in a wrap or on a salad, these meatballs always make me smile. They’re a hit at any gathering, and you won’t have leftovers if I’m around! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This recipe uses ground chicken for a light option. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, ground turkey or even ground beef can work well too. For a vegetarian option, try using a mix of chickpeas and lentils for a similar texture!
Breadcrumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs add a nuttier flavor and extra nutrition. Regular breadcrumbs are fine, or you can use gluten-free ones to accommodate dietary needs. If you have stale bread, you can blend it into crumbs for a fresh substitute!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty kick to the meatballs. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you’re looking for something with a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast can also substitute for a dairy-free option while still adding depth of flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds freshness and color. If you’re not a fan, fresh dill or mint can bring a different yet tasty twist to the dish. Dried herbs work in a pinch, but remember to use a smaller amount, as the flavor is more concentrated!
Red Onion: Red onion gives a sweet flavor when cooked. You can substitute with yellow or even green onions. If you prefer a milder taste, sauté them first before adding to the mix.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Cook Evenly?
To get perfectly cooked meatballs, pay attention to your cooking method. Here’s how to do it:
- Shape meatballs evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet until it’s hot before adding the meatballs—this prevents them from sticking.
- Cook in batches! Too many in the pan at once can lower the temperature and create steam instead of browning.
- Turn them gently every few minutes for even browning; they should be golden brown and cooked through after about 6-8 minutes.
Using a meat thermometer can also be helpful. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced tomatoes
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Additional parsley for garnish
- Olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the meatballs and another 15 minutes cooking them. Then you can easily serve them with rice and fresh toppings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until all the ingredients are combined well. It should be a sticky mixture.
2. Shaping the Meatballs:
Once your mixture is ready, take small portions of it and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Try to make them all the same size so they cook evenly.
3. Cooking the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown all around and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Cooking the Rice:
While the meatballs are cooking, follow the package instructions to prepare your rice. It’s usually simple and just requires water and a bit of time. You can use any rice you like!
5. Serving the Dish:
When everything is ready, scoop some rice onto a plate. Place several meatballs on top of the rice, and then add slices of cucumber and tomatoes along with crumbled feta cheese for a refreshing garnish.
6. Final Touches:
For that extra flavor, sprinkle some more parsley on top and add a drizzle of olive oil. Your Greek Chicken Meatballs are now ready to be enjoyed!
Enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Meatballs!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. Just make sure the turkey is lean to avoid excess grease.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even cooked quinoa as a substitute. Just ensure the alternative you choose binds well with the mixture to hold the meatballs together.
How Should I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. If you want to freeze them, make sure they’re fully cooled, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months!
Can I Bake These Meatballs Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, baking is a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown. This method also saves time and cuts down on cleanup!
