If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and comforting textures, this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy, tender chicken meatballs studded with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creamy feta, and fragrant herbs create a delightful harmony on your palate. It’s an easy recipe that elevates humble ingredients into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining friends. Each bite offers a little taste of the Mediterranean sunshine right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the heartbeat of this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from binding the meatballs perfectly to layering complex flavors and adding those signature Mediterranean colors and textures.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean, protein-rich base that keeps the meatballs light yet juicy.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture while keeping the meatballs tender and airy.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the essential binder holding everything together.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy and salty punch that’s iconic in Mediterranean dishes.
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion: Brings a mild sweetness and gentle crunch to the mix.
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Provides a rich, tangy burst that brightens every bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Enhances moisture and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings that herbal note essential to Mediterranean cooking.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and warmth without overpowering.
- ½ tsp dried dill: A fresh, slightly sweet herbaceous touch that elevates the interior flavor.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Gives a mild background kick making each bite exciting.
- Fresh mint or parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of freshness and vibrant green color to finish.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps the meatballs cook evenly while developing a beautiful golden crust. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gather your ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, crumbled feta, finely chopped red onion, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, dill, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. The key is even distribution so that every meatball bursts with those wonderful flavors and has a perfect texture.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, roll the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs. This size ensures quick, even cooking while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Place each shaped meatball on the lined baking sheet, spaced evenly so they cook without steaming.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You want the meatballs to turn a golden brown color and be cooked thoroughly inside. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this wait is truly irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the meatballs are out of the oven, garnish them with freshly chopped mint or parsley to add brightness and a lovely green contrast. This final touch makes the dish feel fresh, lively, and utterly inviting.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like mint or parsley are wonderful garnishes for this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe because they bring a vibrant freshness that complements the rich and savory meatballs beautifully. You can also add a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair these meatballs with classic Mediterranean sides such as warm pita bread, fluffy couscous, or a crisp Greek salad. Rice pilaf or roasted vegetables also make fantastic accompaniments, turning the meal into a full-flavored celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving these meatballs as part of a mezze platter with hummus, tzatziki, olives, and fresh veggies for dipping. They also shine in wraps or pita pockets with a dollop of yogurt sauce and crunchy salad for a delightful handheld meal. The versatility of this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe truly makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or a speedy dinner the next day.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this delicious Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe whenever you want with minimal prep.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight or heat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for a better texture; reheating in the oven keeps them moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and will give a slightly different flavor but keep the lean and healthy profile of the meatballs.
Are these meatballs spicy?
Not at all. The Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe relies on herbs and aromatic flavors rather than heat, making it suitable for all tastes.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes, just swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture light and binding effective.
What dipping sauces go well with these meatballs?
Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or a simple lemon and herb tahini sauce pair wonderfully, adding creaminess and extra zest.
Can I grill these instead of baking?
Grilling works great and adds a lovely smoky aroma, but be sure to use a grill basket or skewers to prevent them from falling apart.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is a fantastic go-to for anyone wanting a quick, wholesome, and truly delicious meal. I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and textures that make each bite so memorable. Once you taste these, they’ll be a beloved staple at your dinner table for many weeks to come.
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy dish that combines lean ground chicken with feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Baked to golden perfection, they make a perfect main course served alongside pita, rice, or a fresh Greek salad. Easy to prepare and packed with protein, these meatballs bring a lovely Mediterranean flair to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and protein-packed base for the meatballs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture while keeping it light and moist
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – Adds a creamy, salty texture
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion – Mild, sweet flavor
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a rich, tangy taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Enhances flavor and moisture
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Mediterranean herb for flavor
- ½ tsp garlic powder – Adds depth to seasoning
- ½ tsp dried dill – Fresh, herby note
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances flavors
- ¼ tsp black pepper – Mild kick
Garnish
- Fresh mint or parsley – Adds freshness and color
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs evenly.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven, garnish with fresh mint or parsley for added freshness and color. Serve them alongside pita bread, rice, or a Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal experience.
Notes
- Ensure the meatballs are not too large for even cooking; golf ball-sized is ideal.
- If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can broil the meatballs for an additional 2 minutes after baking.
- Use fresh herbs if available to enhance flavor, but dried herbs work well too.
- These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.
