Savor the Mediterranean flavors of these Chicken Meatballs with juicy ground chicken, refreshing cucumber, aromatic herbs, and a delightful dollop of Tzatziki sauce. This wholesome and delicious Greek-inspired recipe is the perfect balance of taste and nutrition, leaving you satisfied and wanting more!
Flavorful Chicken Meatballs
Are you on the lookout for a delicious and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavors? These Chicken Meatballs are packed with juicy chicken meatballs, fresh vegetables, and a dollop of creamy Tzatziki sauce. This dish is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired treat that your taste buds will thank you for. Not only is it a scrumptious option for lunch or dinner, but it’s also a nutritious and satisfying choice that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
Not only are these chicken meatballs incredibly delicious, but they’re also gluten-free, low carb, keto-friendly, dairy-free and Whole30 compliant. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or get creative with your own variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients: Enhancing the Flavors of Your Chicken Meatballs
To create the perfect balance of taste and texture, we’ve thoughtfully selected a combination of ingredients for both the meatballs and the bowl(s).
For the Meatballs:
- Ground Chicken: The star of the show, ground chicken is lean and protein-packed, making it a healthier alternative to beef or pork.
- Egg: Adding an egg helps bind the ingredients together, giving the meatballs a desirable texture.
- Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and dill infuse the meatballs with aromatic flavors, transporting your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
- Garlic and Onion: These savory ingredients bring depth and complexity to the meatball mixture, enhancing its overall taste.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Balancing the seasoning with salt and black pepper elevates the flavors and makes the dish more enjoyable.
- Almond Flour or Oat Flour: Providing a gluten-free option, these flours act as binders and give the meatballs a tender texture.
- Fresh Mint: The refreshing burst of mint complements the savory elements, making each bite a delightful experience.
For the Greek Bowls:
The ingredients for the bowls are a delightful assortment of fresh and zesty elements that harmonize beautifully with the Greek meatballs:
- Chopped Romaine Lettuce: A crisp and nutritious base for the bowl, adding texture and a subtle sweetness.
- Grape Tomatoes: These juicy little bursts of flavor bring a tangy and vibrant addition to the dish.
- Cucumber: Providing a cool and refreshing crunch, cucumber complements the Mediterranean theme.
- Kalamata Olives: Their briny and distinctive taste enhances the overall flavor profile of the bowl(s).
- Red Onion: Adding a touch of sharpness and color, sliced red onion complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy and tangy sauce that ties all the elements together with its refreshing taste.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a rich and salty note, elevating the Mediterranean feel of the dish.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and brings a zesty finish.
- Pita Chips: Optionally included for a delightful crunch, these chips complement the dish when desired.
- Fresh Dill and Parsley: A final garnish of these herbs adds a burst of freshness to complete the dish.
Instructions: How to make Chicken Meatballs
- Mix the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, dried oregano, basil, dill, minced garlic, diced onion, kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, almond flour or oat flour, and chopped fresh mint. Stir the ingredients until well combined, then use clean hands (or wear gloves) to bring the mixture together.
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- Shape the Meatballs: Using a cookie scoop, portion out 1 1/2 tablespoons of the meatball mixture, and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the formed meatballs on a large plate or parchment-lined baking sheet, and repeat the process until all the meatball mixture is used.
- Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, coat the surface evenly with oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Sear: Cook the meatballs on all sides for approximately 3 minutes. Reduce the heat and continue cooking until the meatballs are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which takes about 8-14 minutes.
- Assemble the Bowls: Begin by placing a bed of chopped Romaine lettuce in each bowl. Top it with halved grape tomatoes, chopped cucumber, Kalamata olives, and a little sliced red onion for a burst of freshness. Arrange the cooked meatballs on one side of the bowl. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the ingredients and a dollop of Tzatziki sauce for a creamy and tangy touch. Sprinkle a dash of crumbled feta cheese (dairy-free or regular) for a hint of saltiness.
- Optional Extras: For an added crunch, tuck a few pita chips into the side of the bowl. To enhance the presentation, garnish with chopped fresh dill and parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy your Chicken Meatball Bowl(s) while they’re still warm, savoring the delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, and its wholesome ingredients will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Tips for Success: Crafting the Perfect Chicken Meatballs
To ensure your Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs turn out fantastic every time, follow these simple tips:
- Mix the meatball ingredients thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Use a cookie scoop to create evenly-sized meatballs for consistent cooking.
- Sear the meatballs on all sides first, then finish cooking at a lower heat to ensure they cook through without burning.
- Assemble the bowls with care, placing the ingredients in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement for a delightful visual appeal.
Storage and Freezer Instructions: Keeping Your Leftovers Fresh
Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
How to freeze: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
How to reheat: When reheating, pop them in the microwave or air fryer until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions: Making It Your Own
These Greek Chicken Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:
- Pita Wrap: Instead of assembling the ingredients in a bowl, stuff them into a warm pita for a portable and delicious meal on-the-go.
- Grain Bowl: Add some cooked quinoa or rice as a base to make the meal heartier and more filling.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace the ground chicken with plant-based alternatives like Beyond Meat or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
- Spice It Up: If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the bowl(s).
Variations and Substitutions: Tailoring to Your Taste
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Greek Meatballs according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions:
- Greens: Swap the romaine lettuce for spinach, kale, or mixed greens.
- Sauce Swap: If Tzatziki isn’t your favorite, try hummus, tahini sauce, or a creamy avocado dressing instead.
- Cheese: Use your favorite cheese if you’re not a fan of feta, like goat cheese or shredded mozzarella.
- Vegetables: Mix and match the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand for a diverse and flavorful bowl.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for the meatballs? Absolutely! Ground turkey is an excellent alternative to ground chicken and will work just as well in this recipe. It will still provide a lean and delicious base for your meatballs.
2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.
3. Are the meatballs gluten-free? Yes, the meatballs are gluten-free! The use of almond flour or oat flour as a binder makes them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or following a gluten-free diet.
4. Can I make the recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free by opting for dairy-free feta cheese or omitting the cheese altogether. You can also use a plant-based yogurt to make the Tzatziki sauce.
5. How spicy are the meatballs? The meatballs have a well-balanced flavor profile, but if you prefer a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or drizzle some hot sauce over the assembled bowl(s) for an extra kick.
6. Can I serve the meatballs with something other than pita chips? Absolutely! If you prefer a different crunchy element, you can use tortilla chips, pita bread, or even crusty bread on the side. It’s all about personal preference and what you have available.
7. Can I meal prep this recipe for the week? Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a batch of meatballs and prepare all the ingredients ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers, and when it’s time to eat, simply assemble the bowls and enjoy a quick and delicious meal.
More delicious meatball recipes you will love:
Zucchini Spaghetti and Meatballs
Savor the Mediterranean flavors of these Chicken Meatballs with juicy ground chicken, refreshing cucumber, aromatic herbs, and a delightful dollop of Tzatziki sauce. This wholesome and delicious Greek-inspired recipe is the perfect balance of taste and nutrition, leaving you satisfied and wanting more!
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried dill
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced / grated
- 2 tbsp finely diced onion
- ½ - 1 tsp kosher salt or coarse sea salt , or to taste
- ¼ - ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper , or to taste
- 1/2 cup fine almond flour , can also sub with gluten-free oat flour
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh mint packed and chopped
- Chopped Romaine Lettuce
- 1-2 grape tomatoes halved
- Chopped cucumber
- 1-2 Kalamata olives
- A little bit of sliced red onion
- A dollop of Tzatziki sauce
- A tiny sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese dairy-free or regular
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Pita chips. optional
- A little bit of chopped fresh dill and parsley for garnish
- Mix: Combine all the meatball ingredients together in a bowl: ground chicken, egg, oregano, basil, dill, garlic, onion, salt, black pepper, flour and mint in a mixing bowl. Stir to combine and use clean hands (or wear gloves) to bring the mixture together.
- Shape: Use a cookie scoop to scoop out 1 1/2 tablespoons of meatball mixture, and use hands to form into a ball. Place on a large plate or a parchment-lined baking sheet and repeat until all of the meatball mixture is used.
- Cook: Coat oil evenly in a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add meatballs (working in batches as needed) and sear on all sides, about 3 minutes. Lower the heat and continue cooking, until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees (about 8-14 minutes).
- To assemble: Place lettuce in the bowl. Top with a little of tomatoes, then the chopped cucumber beside it, the olives and a little bit of red onion. Place the meatballs on one side. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over and a dollop of the Tzatziki sauce on top. Sprinkle with a tiny bit of feta.
- Tuck a few pita chips into the side of the bowl, if using. Garnish with chopped dill and parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
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