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Instructions
1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
- Start by preparing the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!
2. Prepare the Chicken Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, oregano, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
- Crack in the egg and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Cook the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Serve
- Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve them with a generous side of homemade tzatziki sauce for dipping.
- You can serve the meatballs over a bed of rice, in pita bread with fresh veggies, or alongside a crisp Greek salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Lean: Chicken meatballs are lower in fat compared to beef or pork, making this dish a great healthy option.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon creates an irresistible savory flavor in the meatballs, while the tzatziki sauce adds a cool, creamy contrast.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this dish comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings to match your taste preferences. You can even add extra vegetables to the meatballs for an added boost of nutrients.
Tips for Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until everything is evenly distributed. Over-mixing can lead to dense meatballs.
- Grate the Cucumber Well: For the tzatziki sauce, make sure to grate the cucumber finely and squeeze out excess water. This prevents the sauce from becoming too watery.
- Baking Option: If you prefer a hands-off method, you can bake the meatballs in a 375°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re cooked through.
- Make Ahead: Both the meatballs and tzatziki can be made ahead of time. Store the meatballs in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for future use. Tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki offer a delicious, flavorful, and healthier twist on a classic comfort food. The meatballs are tender and juicy, packed with fresh herbs and spices, and served with a refreshing, creamy tzatziki that elevates every bite. This dish is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for serving at dinner or as an appetizer at your next gathering. With its bright Mediterranean flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
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