Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Description

These Greek chicken meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with Mediterranean flavor from garlic, oregano, lemon zest, and fresh herbs. Baked or pan-seared until golden, they’re served with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and dill. Perfect as an appetizer, wrap filling, or healthy main dish.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

Chicken Meatballs

• 500 g (1 lb) ground chicken

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)

• 1 egg

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp paprika

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• ½ cucumber, grated and squeezed dry

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

Make the Meatballs

1. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, paprika, lemon zest, herbs, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix gently until just combined.

3. Roll into golf-ball-size meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

• Pan-Fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for 10–12 minutes, turning, until golden and cooked through.
  OR

• Bake: Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping once.

Make the Tzatziki

1. Combine yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and salt.

2. Chill for 10 minutes for best flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

• In pita or flatbread with tomatoes and lettuce

• With lemon rice or roasted potatoes

• As a mezze platter with hummus and olives

• Over a Greek salad

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Q & A

Q: How do I keep chicken meatballs juicy?
A: Don’t overmix and include breadcrumbs or almond flour for moisture.

Q: Can I make these low-carb or keto?
A: Yes—use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

Q: Is tzatziki healthy?
A: Yes! It’s high in protein, probiotics, and fresh ingredients.

Q: Can I air-fry the meatballs?
A: Yes—air-fry at 190°C / 375°F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway.

Q: What herbs work best?
A: Dill is classic, but parsley or mint also work beautifully.