Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
A delightful dish combining savory Mediterranean flavors with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, perfect for dinner or gatherings.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground chicken This protein-packed base is juicy and tender.
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko (or any breadcrumbs) Providing a delightful crunch while keeping the meatballs moist.
- 1/4 cup grated onion (white or yellow) A great aromatic kick that deepens the flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
- 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley Freshness in every bite!
- 1/2 zest of lemon Brightens the overall taste with a hint of citrus.
- 1 tsp dried oregano A classic herb in Greek cuisine that delivers warmth.
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander Adds a subtle citrusy nutty flavor.
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin Offers an earthy depth to the meatballs.
- 1 large egg Helps bind the mixture while adding richness.
- 2 oz feta cheese, crumbled Creamy and tangy, it brings Greek flavor to life.
- Generous pinch salt and black pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Creamy, thick, and perfect for a cool dip.
- 1/2 cup grated cucumber (squeeze out excess moisture) Adds freshness and texture.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill A herb that imparts a vibrant flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced Enhances the flavor profile with its pungency.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens the sauce further.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, lemon zest, oregano, coriander, cumin, egg, feta cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Gently mix the ingredients until just combined and shape into meatballs about 1 tablespoon in size.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
Cooking
- Bake the meatballs for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki by mixing together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of salt and pepper.
- Once the meatballs are done, serve hot with the tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Notes
For added moisture, consider adding a splash of olive oil to the meat mixture. Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil. To make it more family-friendly, reduce the garlic. For crispy meatballs, briefly broil at the end of baking.