There is something irresistibly comforting and vibrant about these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken meatballs infused with fresh herbs and bright lemon zest paired perfectly with a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce make for a dish that feels like a little escape to the Mediterranean. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or an impressive appetizer, each bite bursts with flavor and freshness that will keep you coming back for more. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe lies in its effortlessly simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s lending moisture, herbaceous notes, or creamy texture, making this dish harmonious and full of character.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean protein base that stays juicy and tender when baked.
- â…“ cup breadcrumbs: Helps to bind the meatballs and keep them light and fluffy.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a glue, ensuring your meatballs hold together beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a warm, savory depth that’s signature to Greek cooking.
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped: Offers subtle sweetness and a little crunch in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brings fresh, grassy bright notes for balance.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Essential for that authentic, aromatic Greek flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the lemon and garlic fantastically.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and mild spice.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Infuses the meatballs with a bright, citrusy zing.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the tzatziki, rich and tangy.
- ½ cup cucumber, grated and drained: Adds cooling crunch and freshness to the sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Imparts a punch of savory flavor to the tzatziki.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce with zesty acidity.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors in the tzatziki.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Smooths and enriches the tzatziki for that luscious finish.
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, red onion, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. The key here is to mix just until the ingredients come together—overmixing can make your meatballs tough, so keep it light and loving.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs. This size ensures they cook evenly while staying juicy inside. Arrange them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet so they have room to crisp up on the outside.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 18–20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden-brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking keeps them tender and lets you enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Make the Fresh Tzatziki Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, make your homemade tzatziki. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated and well-drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and olive oil. Stir it all together until smooth and creamy, then transfer to the fridge to chill. This cooling sauce is what elevates your meatballs to next-level deliciousness.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh dill or chopped parsley over the meatballs just before serving adds a pop of color and herbaceous punch that looks and tastes beautiful. A light drizzle of olive oil over the finished dish can also add a subtle richness that ties everything together.
Side Dishes
These meatballs love company. Serve them alongside warm pita bread for dipping, a simple Greek salad with tomatoes and olives for freshness, or a fluffy bed of rice pilaf for a heartier meal. The tzatziki pairs especially well with crunchy vegetable sticks, making it a great option for a light lunch or appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe as sliders inside mini pita pockets with sliced cucumber and tomatoes. You can also turn them into a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and dollops of tzatziki for a nourishing, colorful dish that is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have some meatballs left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the tzatziki separate and chilled in its own container to maintain freshness and prevent it from becoming watery.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze wonderfully. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Freeze tzatziki only if you plan to use it for cooking or dressings later, as the texture can change after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, which helps maintain their texture better than microwaving. Serve with fresh chilled tzatziki for the best flavor contrast.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and will still provide tender, flavorful meatballs. Just be mindful of the moisture level—turkey can be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil to keep the meatballs juicy.
How do I prevent my meatballs from drying out?
The key is not to overmix the ingredients and to avoid overcooking. Baking at 400°F for the stated time and checking internal temperature ensures they stay moist on the inside with a lovely browned exterior.
What if I don’t have fresh dill on hand?
Fresh dill adds an unmistakable brightness, but if you don’t have any, dried dill can be used in smaller amounts. Alternatively, fresh parsley can slightly increase, but the flavor will be very different. Fresh herbs always shine here!
Is the tzatziki sauce suitable for vegans or dairy-free diets?
Traditional tzatziki is made with Greek yogurt, so it’s not vegan or dairy-free. However, you can substitute with dairy-free yogurt alternatives made from coconut or almond milk, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can these meatballs be cooked on the stove instead of baking?
Yes! Cooking meatballs in a skillet with a bit of olive oil over medium heat yields a nice golden crust and keeps them juicy. Just turn them gently to cook evenly on all sides—it might take a few minutes longer than baking.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug wrapped in bright Mediterranean flavors. It’s easy to prepare, packed with fresh herbs, and versatile enough to serve in various ways that suit your mood and mealtime. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a cozy family dinner or your next small gathering—it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone back for seconds.
Print
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and healthy Greek Chicken Meatballs paired with a creamy homemade Tzatziki sauce. These flavorful meatballs are baked to perfection and seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon zest, creating a perfect Mediterranean meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground chicken
- â…“ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1½-inch meatballs, aiming to make about 18–20 evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly. Place them on the prepared baking sheet spaced slightly apart.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Prepare Tzatziki Sauce: While the meatballs bake, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (well-drained to avoid excess moisture), minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, salt, and olive oil in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly until smooth and well blended. Chill until ready to serve.
- Serve: Serve the warm meatballs alongside the chilled tzatziki sauce. These meatballs pair wonderfully with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- To add extra browning and flavor, you can cook the meatballs in a skillet with a little oil instead of baking.
- Ensure the cucumber is thoroughly drained when making tzatziki to prevent a watery sauce.
- Fresh herbs like dill and parsley are crucial for authentic Greek flavor; avoid dried if possible.
