As I stood in my kitchen, the smells of garlic, lemon, and herbs filled the air. It felt like I was on a sunny patio by the Mediterranean. My family was there for dinner, and I was eager to share my new dish: herby Greek chicken meatballs.
This recipe is both healthy and full of flavor. It’s become my favorite for meals and prep.
Every bite of these meatballs was like celebrating Mediterranean culture. They were made with seasoned ground chicken, oregano, and mint. These meatballs are not only tasty but also low in calories at 284 kcal per serving. They have 30 g of protein too.
They’re great as an appetizer or for a cozy family dinner. They always get everyone’s attention!
Introduction to Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs
Herby Greek chicken meatballs are a mix of fresh and tasty. They are easy to make and inspired by Greek food. You need just a few ingredients to make these flavorful meatballs.
These meatballs are great for many meals. They go well with salads or on platters. The herbs like parsley, garlic, and thyme make them extra special. They’re perfect for a quick, tasty dish.
Each meatball has ground chicken, bread crumbs, and parmesan. An egg holds it together, and onions and garlic add flavor. They cook in 10 minutes and taste even better with a spinach and feta sauce.
Try making these meatballs and see how easy it is. You can freeze leftovers for later. Enjoy this tasty recipe for weeks!
Why I Love These Greek-Inspired Chicken Meatballs
I love these Greek-inspired chicken meatballs because they taste amazing. They have fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic. This makes them smell great and taste even better.
These meatballs are great with many foods. You can put them on orzo or in a salad. They’re healthy and taste wonderful, making them perfect for any meal.
Making these meatballs is quick and easy. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. They serve four and have about 409 calories each. The mix of chicken, feta, and lemon makes them irresistible.
This recipe is good for many diets. It’s dairy-free, Paleo, Whole30, and gluten-free. I love making these for my friends and family because they’re tasty and fit many diets.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 people |
| Total Calories per Serving | 409 kcal |
| Protein Content per Serving | 13.3 g |
Key Ingredients for Flavorful Chicken Meatballs
Making tasty Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs needs the right stuff. The ground chicken you pick is key. Mixing thighs and breasts is best. Thighs add richness and moisture, while breasts make it leaner.
Ground Chicken Options: Thighs, Breasts, or a Mix
Choosing the right ground chicken is important. Here’s what to think about:
- Ground Chicken Thighs: More flavorful and moist.
- Ground Chicken Breasts: Leaner and milder taste.
- A Mix: Combines the benefits of both for balanced flavor and texture.
Fresh and Dried Herbs to Elevate Flavor
Choosing the right herbs makes a big difference. Greek seasoning like oregano, dill, parsley, and mint adds flavor and nutrition. Here’s what to use:
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped for freshness.
- Fresh Dill: 2-3 tablespoons to brighten the flavors.
- Dried Oregano: 2 teaspoons to enhance the Mediterranean taste.
These herbs give your meatballs that Greek taste we love. With feta cheese, they taste amazing. This mix makes your meal healthier and tastier.
Step-by-Step Easy Chicken Meatball Recipe
Making juicy herb chicken balls is fun and rewarding. I’ll show you how to make tasty chicken meatballs. You’ll get a mix that turns into delicious greek chicken meatballs for any event.
Preparation: Mixing the Ingredients
First, get these ingredients:
- 1 lb (500g) ground chicken (mix of light and dark meat)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup each of flat-leaf parsley and mint, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Zest of 1 medium-sized lemon
In a big bowl, mix all the ingredients. Don’t overwork the meat. This keeps the meatballs tender and juicy. Use about two tablespoons for each meatball.
Cooking Methods: Baking, Pan Frying, or Air Frying
Now, choose how to cook your juicy herb chicken balls:
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Put the meatballs on a lined tray and brush with olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
- Pan Frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches for 10-12 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
- Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs in the basket, making sure they’re not touching. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
After cooking, your greek chicken meatballs are ready. Enjoy them with tzatziki or in a salad. They can stay in the fridge for up to 5 days or be frozen for longer.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | 450°F (230°C) | 12-15 minutes |
| Pan Frying | Medium Heat | 10-12 minutes |
| Air Frying | 375°F (190°C) | 10-12 minutes |
Making Homemade Chicken Meatballs Healthier
Making healthy Greek meatballs is simple. I use lean ground chicken to keep the protein high and fat low. Adding grated zucchini or spinach boosts nutrition and makes the meatballs moist.
These changes make the meatballs tasty and low in calories. I also use fresh herbs and spices for flavor. This way, I avoid too much salt.
For a healthier option, I might skip the feta cheese or use a lighter version. Swapping breadcrumbs for whole grain or oats makes the meatballs even healthier.
Here are some tips for healthy meatballs:
- Use lots of fresh herbs and spices to avoid salt.
- Add lemon zest for a fresh taste.
- Cook in an air fryer or oven to use less oil.
- Mix chicken breast and thighs for better texture.
Pairing Your Mediterranean Herb-Infused Meatballs
Enjoying Greek-style poultry meatballs is better with the right sides. The best sides can make your meal even tastier. These meatballs, with fresh herbs and feta, go well with many sides and sauces.
Best Sides to Serve with Greek-Style Poultry Meatballs
Here are some tasty sides for Greek-style poultry meatballs:
- Mediterranean Salad: Fresh greens, olives, tomatoes, cucumber, and a light dressing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
- Orzo with Herbs: A light orzo pasta seasoned with fresh dill and lemon is a delightful addition.
- Greek Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and a hint of lemon zest.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita slices for scooping and savoring.
Tasty Sauces Complementing the Meatballs
Try these tasty sauces with your meatballs:
- Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce enriched with cucumber and dill, offers a creamy contrast.
- Whipped Feta Dip: Creamy and tangy, this sauce highlights the cheese’s flavor perfect for dipping.
- Tomato-Basil Sauce: A simple sauce with tomatoes and fresh basil that adds a rich, savory element.
- Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette: A bright and zesty option enhances the overall freshness of your dish.
Adding these suggestions will make your meal with Greek-style poultry meatballs even better. Try different combinations to find your favorite!
How to Store and Reheat Your Greek Chicken Meatballs
Keeping Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs fresh is key. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for up to five days. Freezing cooked meatballs is also a great option. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Freezing uncooked meatballs works too. This makes it easy to prepare ahead.
Ready to enjoy your meatballs again? Here are some tips:
- Microwave: Heat frozen meatballs for 1 minute. Then add 2 to 3 more minutes until warm.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F. Reheat for 15 minutes. This keeps them moist and tender.
- Stovetop: Cook on medium heat. Turn them often for 10 minutes, 5 minutes on each side. This gives a nice crust.
These tips will make your meal even better. They help keep the flavors of your store greek chicken meatballs. With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy them many times.
| Method | Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave | 1 min + 2-3 min | Keep covered for moisture |
| Oven | 15 min at 375°F | Preheat oven for even heating |
| Stovetop | 10 min total | Turn occasionally for even cooking |
Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs for Meal Prep
Preparing herby Greek chicken meatballs meal prep saves time. Making a big batch is easy to add to meals all week. They freeze well, so you can have a healthy dinner anytime without cooking.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
Freezing tips keep the meatballs tasty and fresh. I flash freeze them on a baking sheet for 2 hours. Then, I put them in an airtight container. This way, they stay good for up to 3 months.
Quick Reheating Tips for Busy Weekdays
Reheating these meatballs is easy, even when I’m busy. For quick reheating, use the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Or, try the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. The air fryer is also great, taking about 4 minutes after thawing.
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Flash Freezing | Place meatballs on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to an airtight container. |
| Storage Duration | Up to 3 months in the freezer. |
| Microwave Reheat | 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness. |
| Oven Reheat | 350°F for 10-12 minutes. |
| Air Fryer Reheat | 4 minutes after thawing. |
Creative Serving Ideas for Greek-Style Chicken Meatballs
Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs are super versatile. I enjoy trying new ways to serve them. It’s fun to see how they can be more than just a simple dish.
One great idea is to put them in warm pita bread. Add fresh veggies and a tangy tzatziki sauce. It makes a tasty sandwich.
Another idea is to put them on a colorful salad. Mix greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese are perfect with the meatballs. It’s a light and fresh meal.
For a big, filling dish, try a grain bowl. Use brown rice or quinoa as the base. Add roasted veggies and the meatballs. A balsamic reduction on top makes it all come together.
These serving ideas show off the amazing taste of Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs. They also spark your creativity in the kitchen.
| Serving Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Pita Sandwich | Warm pita filled with meatballs, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce. |
| Salad Topping | Meatballs served on a bed of mixed greens with feta and cherry tomatoes. |
| Grain Bowl | Base of quinoa or brown rice with roasted veggies and meatballs, drizzled with balsamic. |
Nutritional Benefits of Healthy Greek Meatballs
Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs are great for health and taste. They have lots of protein, which is good for muscles. You can eat them on a diet and they won’t taste bland.
Protein Content and Low-Calorie Options
These meatballs have a lot of protein from lean chicken or turkey. You get 14 meatballs from 2 pounds of ground chicken. Eating 2-3 meatballs gives you a lot of protein and not many calories.
| Ingredient | Protein (per serving) | Calories (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Lean Ground Turkey (93/7) | 30g | 170 |
| Olive Oil (2 tbsp) | 0g | 240 |
| Tzatziki Sauce | 3g | 50 |
| Feta Cheese (1 oz) | 6g | 75 |
| Total per Serving | 39g | 535 |
Eating sides like romaine, cucumber, and tomatoes makes them taste better and healthier. Adding fresh herbs like dill and mint makes them even healthier. These meatballs are perfect for a healthy meal.
Variations on the Classic Greek Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Exploring different Greek meatballs can be exciting. You can use turkey or lean beef and pork instead of chicken. These changes can make the dish taste new yet comforting.
Ground turkey is a great choice for those watching calories. It keeps the meatballs moist and tasty.
Don’t be afraid to try new herbs and spices. Instead of just oregano and parsley, add fresh dill or mint. Cumin or smoked paprika can add a nice depth of flavor.
Adding finely diced veggies like bell peppers or zucchini is a good idea. They add texture and make the meatballs healthier.
These changes are not just about taste. They let you make the dish your own. With a little creativity, you can enjoy a new twist on a classic dish. So, have fun in the kitchen and try out these ideas!
