Easy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki: A Fresh Mediterranean Delight

Hello, food lovers! I’m Meriem, your enthusiastic food blogger, and I’m excited to share a recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen: Easy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki. These tender meatballs, made with lean ground chicken, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon, are paired with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce that’s perfect for dipping or drizzling. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is ideal for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings. Drawing from my love for simple yet bold recipes (like the Greek-inspired dishes you’ve enjoyed before), this one is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive in and savor the Mediterranean magic!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Mediterranean Flavors: Fresh parsley, dill, and lemon zest create a zesty, aromatic profile.
• Quick and Simple: Ready in 25 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Healthy and Lean: High in protein, low in carbs, with a nutritious yogurt-based sauce.
• Versatile: Serve as a main dish, in pita wraps, or as party appetizers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy tzatziki is a hit with all ages, making it great for sharing.

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What you will need ?

Here’s everything you need to create these flavorful meatballs and tzatziki. I’ve included substitutions and their uses to make this recipe adaptable, keeping in mind your interest in flexible, accessible recipes

Meatballs

• 1 lb ground chicken
  Purpose: Lean protein base for tender, juicy meatballs.
  Substitution: Use ground turkey, beef, or plant-based ground meat for vegetarian (adjust cooking time). Ground turkey was used in a similar recipe you liked, so it’s a great swap here.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
  Purpose: Binds the meatballs and adds texture.
  Substitution: Use panko, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers. Oat flour works for a gluten-free option, adding a slightly nutty flavor.
• 1 egg
  Purpose: Binds the mixture and adds moisture.
  Substitution: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 minutes) for vegan or egg-free diets, as you’ve explored vegan swaps in past recipes.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Purpose: Adds savory, aromatic depth.
  Substitution: Use ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste for convenience.
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  Purpose: Provides mild sweetness and crunch.
  Substitution: Use yellow onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder for a smoother texture, similar to your preference for finely chopped onions in other dishes.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  Purpose: Adds freshness and a classic Mediterranean note.
  Substitution: Use 2 tsp dried parsley, cilantro, or fresh basil for variety.
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  Purpose: Contributes a signature Greek herbaceous flavor.
  Substitution: Use 1 tsp dried dill, fennel fronds, or omit for a simpler profile, as you’ve enjoyed dill in similar Greek recipes.
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
  Purpose: Infuses bright citrus flavor.
  Substitution: Use zest of ½ an orange or ½ tsp lemon extract (reduce lemon juice in tzatziki slightly).
• 1 tsp salt
  Purpose: Enhances all flavors.
  Substitution: Use sea salt or reduce to ¾ tsp for low-sodium diets, aligning with your interest in customizable seasoning.
• ½ tsp black pepper
  Purpose: Adds a mild kick.
  Substitution: Use white pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
  Purpose: Browns the meatballs and adds richness.
  Substitution: Use avocado oil, vegetable oil, or bake instead of frying (see tips below).

Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
  Purpose: Forms the creamy, tangy base of the sauce.
  Substitution: Use plain yogurt (strained), vegan yogurt, or sour cream for a richer flavor, as you’ve liked creamy sauces in past recipes like alfredo.
• ½ cup cucumber, grated
  Purpose: Adds refreshing crunch and mild flavor.
  Substitution: Use zucchini (squeezed dry) or finely diced radish for a different texture.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  Purpose: Enhances tangy, bright flavor.
  Substitution: Use lime juice, white vinegar, or ½ tsp lemon extract.
• 1 clove garlic, minced
  Purpose: Adds a subtle, savory kick.
  Substitution: Use ¼ tsp garlic powder or omit for a milder sauce.
• Pinch of salt
  Purpose: Balances flavors.
  Substitution: Use sea salt or omit for low-sodium diets.

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Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl (for meatball mixture)
• Large skillet (for frying meatballs)
• Small bowl (for tzatziki)
• Grater or zester (for cucumber and lemon zest)
• Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth (for squeezing cucumber)
• Spatula or tongs (for turning meatballs)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: Cookie scoop (for uniform meatballs)
• Optional: Meat thermometer (to check doneness)

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Step-By-Step Guiding

Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly juicy Greek chicken meatballs with creamy tzatziki.

1️⃣ Mix the Meatball Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground chicken, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 cloves minced garlic, ¼ cup finely diced red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill, 1 tbsp lemon zest, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper.
• Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined to keep the meatballs tender.
• Tip: Finely dice the onion to avoid large chunks, as you’ve preferred in recipes like the Mediterranean Chicken Patties. If the mixture is too wet, add 1–2 tbsp more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add 1 tsp water.

2️⃣ Shape the Meatballs

• Scoop the mixture and roll into 1-inch meatballs, about 20 total, using your hands or a cookie scoop for uniformity.
• Place on a plate and chill for 10 minutes if time allows to help them hold their shape during cooking.
• Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, a trick that works well for meatball recipes you’ve tried before. Make smaller meatballs for appetizers or larger for mains, adjusting cooking time.

3️⃣ Cook the Meatballs

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
• Add meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
• Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
• Tip: For a healthier option, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, as you’ve explored baking in similar recipes.

4️⃣ Make the Tzatziki Sauce

• Grate ½ cup cucumber and place in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible to prevent a watery sauce.
• In a small bowl, mix 1 cup Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 clove minced garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
• Cover and chill until ready to serve, or for at least 15 minutes to meld flavors.
• Tip: Blend ingredients for a smoother tzatziki, as you’ve liked creamy sauces in dishes like the Greek Turkey Meatballs.

5️⃣ Serve the Meatballs

• Serve warm meatballs over a bed of tzatziki, allowing the creamy sauce to coat each bite. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon slices for a vibrant presentation.
• Pair with pita bread, a Greek salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Tip: For a fun appetizer, skewer meatballs with toothpicks and serve tzatziki on the side, a style you’ve enjoyed for party-friendly dishes.

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Topping Suggestions

Elevate your meatballs with these additions, inspired by your love for creative garnishes:

• Crumbled Feta: Adds a tangy, salty contrast.
• Chopped Mint: A cooling, fresh herb for the tzatziki.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for extra heat.
• Kalamata Olives: Chopped for a briny Greek touch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for a juicy burst.
• Extra Lemon Zest: For a vibrant citrus pop.

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How to Store & Reheat

Based on your preference for detailed storage tips (e.g., April 10, 2025, for Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Breakfast Pizza):

• Storage:
  • Store cooked meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Tip: Keep tzatziki tightly covered to prevent absorbing fridge odors.
• Freezing:
  • Freeze cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Tzatziki does not freeze well due to its yogurt base.
  • Tip: Freeze meatballs in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a bag to prevent sticking.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: Heat meatballs for 1–2 minutes, covered with a damp paper towel.
  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes on a baking sheet, covered with foil.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet with a splash of oil for 5–7 minutes.
  • Tip: Serve with fresh tzatziki, as reheated tzatziki may separate.

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What to Serve with Greek Chicken Meatballs

• Pita Bread: Warm and soft for wrapping or dipping.
• Greek Salad: Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta with a lemon-oregano dressing.
• Roasted Potatoes: Lemon-herb seasoned for a hearty side.
• Mint Iced Tea: A refreshing, non-alcoholic option.

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Ingredient Substitutions Recap

For quick reference, aligning with your request for substitution details:

• Chicken → Turkey: Lean protein, similar texture, as used in your Greek Turkey Meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs → Panko: Lighter, crispier binding.
• Greek Yogurt → Sour Cream: Richer, less tangy tzatziki.
• Dill → Parsley: Milder, still fresh flavor.
• Olive Oil → Avocado Oil: Neutral frying alternative.

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FAQs

Print

These Easy Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at home. The juicy, herb-packed meatballs paired with creamy tzatziki make for a versatile dish that’s perfect for dinners, meal prep, or parties. Inspired by your love for Greek-inspired recipes (like the Greek Turkey Meatballs from April 14, 2025), this version uses chicken for a lighter twist. Try it with your favorite toppings, serve with a fresh salad, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy this zesty, delicious meal!