Greek Chicken Meatballs

Introduction

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous is a bright and flavorful dish that brings together tender, grilled chicken marinated in zesty lemon and fresh herbs, paired with light, fluffy couscous. This meal offers a perfect balance of protein, healthy grains, and fresh, aromatic flavors, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

The chicken is marinated with a blend of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and herbs like rosemary and thyme, which infuse it with a refreshing, savory taste. Grilled to perfection, the chicken retains its juiciness and charred flavor. Paired with couscous, which has a light texture and absorbs the herbaceous marinade, this meal is as satisfying as it is healthy.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken with Couscous is easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy days. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different vegetables or additional toppings like feta cheese, olives, or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. This meal is not only nutritious but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or as part of a meal prep routine!

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Perfect for:

Healthy meal prep
Quick weeknight dinners
Mediterranean-inspired meals
Appetizers for parties or gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Greek Chicken Meatballs are a must-try:

Bursting with Flavor: Loaded with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs.
Healthy and Lean: Made with ground chicken for a light yet filling option.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Perfect for serving in bowls, wraps, or on their own as an appetizer.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein, vitamin C, healthy fats

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 pound (450g) ground chicken
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
1 egg, beaten
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

Tzatziki sauce
Pita bread or flatbread
Fresh salad (cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives)
Lemon wedges (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

Ground Chicken: A lean and versatile protein base for the meatballs.
Feta Cheese: Adds tangy, creamy flavor to the dish.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill provide authentic Mediterranean flavors.
Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and creamy dip that complements the meatballs perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon zest, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 16-18 meatballs).

Cook the Meatballs:

Choose Your Cooking Method:
- Pan-Fried: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Baked: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Assemble and Serve:

Plate the Meatballs:
Serve the Greek Chicken Meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. Pair with pita bread, a fresh salad, and lemon wedges for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Optional Garnishes:
Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or dill on top for added freshness.

How to Serve

Greek Chicken Meatballs can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

In a Bowl: Serve the meatballs over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with salad and tzatziki sauce.
In a Wrap: Stuff the meatballs into a pita with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki for a handheld meal.
As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and tzatziki on the side for dipping.
With Roasted Veggies: Pair with roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a hearty dinner.

Additional Tips

Make Them Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Double the Recipe: These meatballs freeze well, so make a double batch to have quick meals ready throughout the week.
Don’t Overcook: To keep the meatballs tender, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Recipe Variations

Feta-Stuffed Meatballs: Take your Greek chicken meatballs to the next level by placing a small cube of feta cheese in the center of each meatball before rolling. When cooked, the feta melts slightly, adding a creamy and tangy surprise to every bite.
Lemon-Dill Meatballs: Brighten the flavor profile by incorporating finely chopped fresh dill and a generous amount of lemon zest into the meat mixture. This variation pairs beautifully with a simple tzatziki sauce or a drizzle of lemon juice on top.
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Meatballs: For a nutrient boost and an extra pop of Mediterranean flavor, mix in finely chopped cooked spinach and diced sun-dried tomatoes. The combination of savory and slightly sweet makes these meatballs irresistible.
Kalamata Olive and Oregano Meatballs: Chopped Kalamata olives and dried oregano create a bold, salty, and herbaceous twist. This variation channels the flavors of a traditional Greek salad right into the meatballs.
Gluten-Free Greek Meatballs: Replace traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed rice crackers for a gluten-free option that still maintains a tender texture. This variation ensures everyone at the table can enjoy the dish.
Spicy Greek Meatballs: Add a bit of heat by mixing red pepper flakes or finely chopped hot peppers into the meatball mixture. This spicy version pairs well with a cooling yogurt-based sauce or a side of cucumber salad.
Mint and Yogurt Meatballs: Incorporate freshly chopped mint leaves into the meat mixture for a refreshing flavor. Serve these meatballs with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki sauce for a perfectly balanced taste experience.
Zucchini-Boosted Meatballs: Grate a zucchini, squeeze out the excess moisture, and mix it into the chicken. This adds both moisture and sneaky veggies to the meatballs, making them tender and healthier.
Tzatziki-Stuffed Meatballs: Take your tzatziki to the inside of the meatball by freezing small dollops of the sauce and wrapping the chicken mixture around them. As they cook, the tzatziki melts into a luscious, creamy center.
Mediterranean Herb Blend Meatballs: Use a blend of fresh parsley, thyme, basil, and oregano in the meat mixture to create a vibrant, garden-fresh Mediterranean aroma. This variation pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple Greek-style rice pilaf.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, oven, or stovetop until warmed through.

Special Equipment

Food Processor: For finely mincing chicken, onions, herbs, and garlic to ensure a smooth, well-mixed meatball texture.
Microplane Zester: Ideal for zesting lemon for a burst of citrus flavor, a key ingredient in Greek-style dishes.
Meatball Scoop: A small cookie or meatball scoop ensures uniform-sized meatballs, leading to even cooking.
Cast-Iron Skillet: Great for pan-searing the meatballs to get a nice golden crust before finishing them in the oven or a sauce.
Non-Stick Baking Sheet: Perfect for baking meatballs without sticking or needing excess oil.
Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when baking the meatballs.
Instant-Read Thermometer: Helps check if the meatballs reach the ideal internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
Mortar and Pestle: For grinding dried oregano, garlic, or other spices into a fine, aromatic paste to infuse the meatballs.
Mixing Bowls with Rubber Base: Stable bowls make it easier to mix the chicken, breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasonings thoroughly.
Skewers (optional): If you want to prepare the meatballs in a Greek-style kabob format, skewers can help for grilling or broiling.

FAQ Section

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
You can substitute feta with grated parmesan or goat cheese, or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version.
Can I bake instead of fry the meatballs?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier and hands-off cooking method, and the meatballs still turn out delicious.
What’s the best way to serve these meatballs for meal prep?
Pair with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, and tzatziki for a balanced, make-ahead meal.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Meatballs are a delicious, healthy, and versatile addition to your meal rotation, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite. Made with zesty herbs, garlic, and creamy feta, these tender meatballs are both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them with a fresh Greek salad, warm pita bread, or a side of roasted veggies, they’re a perfect option for any occasion.

Ideal for meal prep or weeknight dinners, these meatballs can also double as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. Pair them with a refreshing tzatziki sauce or hummus for an extra layer of flavor. This simple, flavorful recipe brings the vibrant taste of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

Give these Greek Chicken Meatballs a try and enjoy a healthy, protein-packed dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping ahead, this recipe is a satisfying and delicious solution!