Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce: Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Chicken Thigh (Offers richer flavor.); 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Adjust to texture preferences.); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Using fresh elevates flavor.); 1/2 medium Red Onion (finely chopped) (Shallots can be used instead.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped); 1/4 cup Fresh Dill (chopped) (Can replace with cilantro.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Freshly grated preferred.); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Extra virgin recommended.); 1 cup Greek Yogurt (Opt for full-fat for richness.); 1/2 medium Cucumber (grated and drained) (Draining is crucial.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Fresh juice works best.); 1 pinch Salt (for tzatziki)

A mouthwatering aroma wafts through my kitchen as I prepare to make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. A staple of Mediterranean cuisine, this dish effortlessly transforms a simple weeknight meal into an unforgettable dining experience that’s both healthy and satisfying. Each juicy meatball is infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, while the creamy tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing touch that’s simply irresistible. What’s more, this versatile recipe can easily fit into your meal prep rotation—perfect for lunches or quick dinners that are far from boring. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family gathering or whipping up something special for yourself, these meatballs will quickly become a favorite. Are you ready to dive into this delicious Mediterranean adventure?

Why choose Greek Chicken Meatballs?

Deliciously Versatile: These meatballs shine in various settings—serve them as an appetizer, toss them in a salad, or enjoy them in warm pita bread.

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, these meatballs make a perfect addition to your meal prep routine, ensuring you eat well without sacrificing flavor.

Easy Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time.

Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of herbs blended with zesty lemon creates a vibrant dish that captivates your taste buds.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone will love the hearty yet refreshing flavors of these meatballs paired with creamy tzatziki.

Greek Chicken Meatballs Ingredients

• Get ready for a flavorful journey!

For the Meatballs

Ground Chicken – The main protein source; ground chicken thigh offers a richer flavor.
Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture together; adjust to texture preferences if too moist.
Egg – Acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold together beautifully.
Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic depth; using fresh garlic elevates the flavor.
Red Onion (finely chopped) – Brings a subtle sweetness; shallots can be a nice alternative.
Fresh Parsley and Dill (chopped) – Infuse fresh herbal notes; feel free to replace with cilantro if desired.
Lemon Zest – Brightens the meatballs; ensure it’s freshly grated for the best taste.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all flavors in the dish.
Olive Oil – Adds moisture when baking; using extra virgin is recommended for quality.

For the Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Yogurt – Forms the creamy base of the tzatziki; opt for full-fat for richness.
Cucumber (grated and drained) – Contributes coolness and texture; draining is crucial to avoid watery sauce.
Lemon Juice – Provides acidity and brightness; fresh juice works wonders.
Pinch of salt (for tzatziki) – Balances the flavors beautifully in the sauce.

This recipe for Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce offers a delightful escape to the Mediterranean right from your kitchen.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your Greek Chicken Meatballs will cook evenly and achieve that lovely golden brown color on the outside. Position a rack in the center of the oven to facilitate uniform baking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix gently until all ingredients are just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture, which helps keep the meatballs tender and juicy.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
With damp hands, scoop portions of the meat mixture and shape them into 1.5-inch meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one. This prevents them from steaming and allows for a crisp exterior as they bake.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Drizzle the shaped meatballs lightly with olive oil to enhance moisture and flavor during baking. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure it’s well-drained), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined. This refreshing sauce will complement the warm meatballs perfectly.

Step 6: Chill the Tzatziki
Transfer the tzatziki sauce to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish. It’s the perfect cool partner for your hot, flavorful Greek Chicken Meatballs.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the warm meatballs alongside the chilled tzatziki sauce, either drizzled on top or as a dipping option. Enjoy this delightful pairing that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance; just shape them and place them in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain their quality, consider drizzling a little olive oil over them before sealing, which helps keep them moist. The tzatziki sauce can also be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just make sure to drain the cucumber well to prevent a watery sauce. When ready to serve, simply bake the meatballs and chill the tzatziki for 15 minutes for the best flavor combination. This way, you’ll have a quick and delicious Mediterranean meal ready in no time!

Greek Chicken Meatballs Variations

Feel free to elevate your Greek Chicken Meatballs with these delightful twists that cater to different tastes and dietary needs!

Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a leaner meat option that still brings delicious flavor.
Spice It Up: Add warming spices like cumin or coriander for an extra depth of flavor that can transform your meatballs.
Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian option, substitute ground chickpeas or lentils to create equally satisfying meatballs.
Herb Variants: Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or basil for a unique twist on the original recipe.
Zesty Additions: Incorporate grated lemon or lime zest directly into the meat mixture for a citrusy burst.
Cheesy Boost: Mix in crumbled feta cheese for a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the meatballs.
Heat Level Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to give your dish a spicy kick.
Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside a variety of dressings, such as Dragon Sauce Sweet or Fry Sauce Burger, for a fun tasting experience.

Feel free to let your creativity run wild! Each variation promises to add its own charm and become a new favorite in your kitchen.

How to Store and Freeze Greek Chicken Meatballs

Fridge: Store leftover Greek Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method preserves their juicy texture.

Tzatziki Storage: Keep tzatziki sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorsome for your meals.

What to Serve with Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

A vibrant Mediterranean meal begins with juicy meatballs and tangy tzatziki, inviting you to explore delightful food pairings.

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta adds crispness and balanced acidity that complements the rich meatballs.
Warm Pita Bread: Soft and pillowy, warm pita serves as the perfect vessel for scooping meatballs and tzatziki, enhancing every bite with a satisfying texture.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa, tossed with lemon and fresh herbs, offers a wholesome base that soaks up the flavors of the dish while adding a nutty element.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables, caramelized for depth, provides a colorful and nutritious side that enhances the meal’s visual appeal.
Crispy Fries: Golden, crispy fries seasoned with Mediterranean herbs create a delightful contrast, perfect for dipping into the creamy tzatziki.
Minted Yogurt Drink: A refreshing minty yogurt drink perfectly balances the warmth of the meatballs, offering a cool respite for your palate.
Zesty Lemon Rice: Flavorful rice infused with lemon zest mirrors the meatballs’ brightness and makes for a subtle, zesty side that ties everything together beautifully.

Whether creating a feast or a simple family dinner, these pairings will elevate your experience with Greek Chicken Meatballs and Tzatziki Sauce!

Expert Tips for Greek Chicken Meatballs

Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep your Greek Chicken Meatballs tender and juicy. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
Cucumber Drainage: Ensure the grated cucumber for tzatziki is thoroughly drained. This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
Grating Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and lemon zest for the meatballs to bring out the most vibrant flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Uniform Size: Shape meatballs uniformly to ensure they cook evenly. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter for consistent results.
Flavor Chilling: Allow the tzatziki sauce to chill for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will enhance the flavors, creating a more refreshing dip.

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of ground chicken should I use?
You can use ground chicken breast for a leaner meatball or ground chicken thigh for a richer flavor. I often recommend the thigh for added juiciness and depth!

How do I store leftover Greek Chicken Meatballs?
Store your leftover Greek Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They make for great quick meals when you’re pressed for time!

Can I freeze Greek Chicken Meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

How do I prevent my tzatziki sauce from being watery?
To avoid a watery tzatziki, ensure the grated cucumber is thoroughly drained after grating. I like to wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture—this keeps the sauce perfectly creamy!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have any allergies, be sure to check the ingredient labels. The meatballs include breadcrumbs, which contain gluten, so you can substitute them with gluten-free options. Also, if cooking for pets, be cautious as garlic and onion can be harmful to dogs.

Can I add more herbs or spices to the meatballs?
Very! Feel free to add spices like cumin or coriander for warmth, or even increase the amount of fresh herbs—this dish is quite versatile and can handle a bit of extra flavor!