Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki

A simple and delicious Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki recipe that is packed with flavor! Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these meatballs are juicy and flavorful. The creamy tzatziki sauce elevates this dish, making it ideal for various occasions, from casual weeknight meals to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a 20-minute prep time, you can have a tasty dinner ready in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: A blend of herbs and spices gives these chicken meatballs an authentic Greek taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these meatballs with rice, pasta, or in pita bread for a quick meal that suits any preference.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean ground chicken and fresh veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make Ahead Option: These meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for cooking the meatballs evenly without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps ensure precision in your measurements for consistent results.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and preparing your fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup cucumber (diced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon fresh mint

For the Salad

• 15 cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2 cups English cucumber (diced)
• 1 cup kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup red onion (diced)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons homemade Greek vinaigrette (or store-bought)

For the Meatballs

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint (packed and chopped)
• 1/3 cup Greek vinaigrette (note: reserve for after meatballs are cooked)

To Serve

• Crumbled feta cheese
• Cooked rice of your choice
• Lemon orzo pasta
• Pita bread
• Quick pickled onions

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

Start by combining all ingredients for the tzatziki sauce in a mixing bowl.
– Add the mayonnaise, diced cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, dried dill, and chopped mint.
– Mix well until fully combined. Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the meatballs.

Step 2: Make the Salad

In another bowl, toss together:
– Cherry tomatoes, diced English cucumber, kalamata olives, diced red onion, kosher salt, and Greek vinaigrette.
– Stir gently until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatballs Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
– Combine ground chicken with egg, almond flour, kosher salt, oregano leaves, basil, dried dill, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped mint.
– Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep them tender.

Step 4: Form and Bake Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Use your hands to form small meatballs from the mixture.
– Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Once cooked:
– Drizzle reserved Greek vinaigrette over the meatballs.
– Serve hot alongside tzatziki sauce with salad on the side. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki

Serving Greek chicken meatballs with homemade tzatziki is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to plate and enjoy this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the meatballs over a fluffy bed of cooked rice for a hearty meal. The rice will absorb the juices, making each bite flavorful.

In Pita Bread

• Wrap the meatballs in warm pita bread along with fresh veggies and tzatziki for a delicious handheld option. This makes for a perfect lunch or picnic treat.

With Lemon Orzo Pasta

• Pair your meatballs with lemon orzo pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for a refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

As Part of a Salad

• Create a vibrant salad with mixed greens, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and olives topped with Greek vinaigrette. Add meatballs for protein and serve with tzatziki drizzled on top.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your Greek chicken meatballs, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the overall taste. Always opt for fresh dill, mint, and garlic when possible.
• Keep the Mixture Moist: Adding egg and almond flour helps bind the meatballs while keeping them tender. Be cautious not to overmix as this can lead to tough meatballs.
• Bake Instead of Fry: Baking the meatballs at a high temperature allows them to cook evenly while keeping them moist without added fats from frying.
• Chill Before Cooking: Allowing your meatball mixture to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps firm them up, making them easier to shape and less likely to fall apart during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki

Pairing your Greek chicken meatballs with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Consider these delightful options.

1. Greek Salad: A classic mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives dressed in olive oil adds freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs make a colorful and nutritious side.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with chicken.
4. Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with assorted veggies or whole-grain crackers provides fiber and healthy fats.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These vine-wrapped delights filled with rice and herbs add an authentic touch to your meal.
6. Tzatziki Dipping Veggies: Fresh cut veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and celery served alongside extra tzatziki offer crunch and flavor contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Not properly seasoning the meat mixture can result in bland meatballs. Be sure to season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking.
• Bold mixing: Overmixing the chicken mixture can lead to tough meatballs. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Bold cooking time: Cooking the meatballs for too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked through.
• Bold ingredient swaps: Using different types of ground meat without adjusting cooking times may affect the final dish. Stick with ground chicken for best results, or adapt other meats accordingly.
• Bold tzatziki consistency: Failing to drain the cucumbers properly can make your tzatziki watery. Squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Tzatziki is best made fresh.

Reheating Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat meatballs for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki.

How do you make Greek Chicken Meatballs?

To make Greek Chicken Meatballs, combine ground chicken with spices, egg, and almond flour, then form into balls and bake until cooked through.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe while still keeping it flavorful.

What is the best way to serve Tzatziki?

Serve Tzatziki as a dip alongside meatballs, fresh vegetables, or with pita bread for a delightful appetizer or side dish.

How do I customize my Greek Chicken Meatballs?

You can add ingredients like chopped spinach or feta cheese into the meatball mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare both the meatballs and tzatziki in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Meatballs + Homemade Tzatziki is a deliciously versatile dish that caters to many tastes. This recipe allows for customization with herbs and spices based on your preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how easy it is to prepare!