Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

There's something irresistible about the smell of garlic, lemon, and herbs wafting through the kitchen – and these Greek Chicken Meatballs bring all that Mediterranean magic to your table. Juicy on the inside, golden and crisp on the outside, they’re bursting with fresh flavor and make a perfect main dish, appetizer, or protein-packed meal prep option.

I first made these on a whim one summer evening after a trip to the farmer’s market left me with a bag of fresh dill and a craving for something light but satisfying. One bite, and I knew I had a new favorite. These meatballs are quick, healthy, and endlessly versatile – the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Let’s dive into why these Greek Chicken Meatballs deserve a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You'll Love This Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to meet your new go-to dinner. These Greek Chicken Meatballs are everything you want in a weeknight meal – fast, flavorful, and family-approved.

First and foremost, they’re incredibly quick and easy. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes – ideal for those busy nights when time isn’t on your side but a home-cooked meal still sounds good.

They’re also healthy without sacrificing flavor. Made with lean ground chicken, fresh herbs, and a touch of olive oil, they’re naturally low in carbs and high in protein – great for anyone following a clean eating plan or looking to lighten things up.

Another major plus? They’re budget-friendly. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can feed a whole family without spending a fortune. Ground chicken is often more affordable than beef or lamb, and the rest of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen.

Finally, these meatballs are perfectly versatile. Serve them over rice, tuck them into pita bread with tzatziki, or pair them with a crisp Greek salad. You can even pack them up for lunches throughout the week – they reheat like a dream.

Ready to gather your ingredients? Let’s talk about what goes into these flavor-packed meatballs.

Ingredients Notes

These Greek Chicken Meatballs come together with simple ingredients that, when combined, create a fresh and satisfying dish full of bright Mediterranean flavor.

Ground chicken is the star of the show here. It’s lean, mild, and perfect for soaking up all the bold herbs and spices in this recipe. I recommend using ground chicken thighs if you can find them – they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than ground breast meat, but either will work beautifully.

Fresh herbs like dill and parsley give these meatballs their signature Greek flair. Dill brings a subtle tangy flavor that balances the richness of the meat, while parsley adds a bright, grassy note. Don’t skimp here – fresh is best, and it really makes a difference.

Garlic and red onion add essential aromatic depth. The garlic brings that familiar savory warmth, and the red onion provides a gentle sweetness and crunch. Grating the onion (instead of dicing) helps it blend seamlessly into the meatball mixture and keeps everything moist.

Lemon zest is the secret weapon in this recipe. It adds a pop of citrusy brightness that elevates the whole dish. Just a teaspoon will do, but don’t skip it – it’s what gives these meatballs that unmistakable Mediterranean taste.

You’ll also need breadcrumbs and an egg to help bind the mixture together, along with a touch of olive oil for moisture and flavor. A bit of salt, pepper, and dried oregano round out the seasoning. No fancy equipment required – just a mixing bowl, your hands, and a skillet or sheet pan for cooking.

How To Make This Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Making these Greek Chicken Meatballs is a straightforward process, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Start by prepping your ingredients. Grate your red onion using the large holes of a box grater and finely chop your fresh herbs. Zest your lemon, mince your garlic, and measure out the breadcrumbs and seasonings. Having everything ready before you mix makes the process much smoother.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, herbs, lemon zest, egg, breadcrumbs, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a fork – just until combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so go easy here.

Once your mixture is ready, use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape the meat into golf ball-sized rounds. You should end up with about 18–20 meatballs, depending on the size. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate while you prep your cooking method.

For stovetop cooking, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown, then reduce the heat and cover the pan to let them cook through – about 5–7 minutes more.

Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes on a lined baking sheet, flipping halfway through for even browning. Either method results in tender, juicy meatballs with a crisp exterior.

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes – a quick and satisfying meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Storage Options

These Greek Chicken Meatballs store beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Once cooled, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They stay tender and flavorful, and you’ll love how easy they are to grab and go for busy weekday meals.

To freeze, place the cooked (or even uncooked) meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

For reheating, simply pop them in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or reheat straight from frozen in a low oven.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit different dietary needs.

If you don’t have ground chicken, feel free to use ground turkey instead. It offers a similar texture and flavor, and works just as well in this recipe. Ground lamb or beef can also be used for a heartier, more traditional Greek-style meatball.

Want to make it dairy-free or paleo? Just swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds. It keeps the texture intact while catering to gluten-free or low-carb diets.

Craving a little extra spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the mix. It gives the meatballs a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the lemon and herbs.

You can also play with the herb blend. If you don’t have dill, try using fresh mint for a slightly different, but equally Greek flavor profile. Basil or cilantro could work too, depending on your taste.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. These meatballs are forgiving and fun to customize – once you get the hang of the basic recipe, you’ll find yourself putting your own twist on it every time.

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