Craving a taste of the Mediterranean without booking a flight? Look no further! This Greek Chicken Meatballs recipe brings the sun-soaked flavors of Greece right to your kitchen. We’re talking juicy, flavorful meatballs infused with herbs, spices, and a touch of feta cheese, all nestled in a delicious, homemade sauce. Get ready to say “Opa!” after every bite!
What are Greek Chicken Meatballs?
Have you ever wondered if the gods on Mount Olympus enjoyed appetizers? Or maybe, somewhere in a bustling Athenian taverna, a clever cook accidentally stumbled upon the perfect combination of chicken, herbs, and spices? We’ll never know for sure, but one thing’s certain: Greek Chicken Meatballs are a culinary gift! They’re tender, flavorful balls of ground chicken seasoned with classic Mediterranean ingredients like oregano, lemon, and garlic. They’re not just meatballs; they’re a taste of sunshine and happiness.
After all, they say the way to a man’s stomach is through his heart, and these meatballs will steal your heart in one bite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen! You’ll be hooked!
Key Ingredients for Greek Chicken Meatballs:
Here’s everything you need to transport your taste buds to Greece:
- 1 pound ground chicken: Lean ground chicken provides a healthy base for the meatballs.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and keep them moist. (Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute).
- 4 ounces feta cheese: Adds a salty, creamy tang that’s quintessential to Greek cuisine. Crumble beforehand.
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced: Provides a sharp, pungent flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that characteristic garlicy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped: Oregano is a staple in Greek cooking and adds a distinct earthy aroma. (Can substitute with 2 teaspoons dried oregano).
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the other ingredients.
- 1 large egg: Act as binder for the meatballs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The heart of Mediterranean cuisine! Used for cooking the meatballs and adding richness to the sauce.
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors.
How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs:
These Greek Chicken Meatballs are surprisingly easy to make! With a little prep work, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in under an hour. The best part? They’re incredibly flavorful, satisfying, and a healthier alternative to beef-based meatballs. Get ready for a taste of the Mediterranean in your own home! Prep time is only 15 minutes, cook time is about 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped oregano, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form the Meatballs: Roll the chicken mixture into small, roughly 1-inch meatballs. Aim for about 20-25 meatballs from the mixture.
Brown the Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. You may need to cook the meatballs in batches. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
Simmer in Sauce: Pour the jar of marinara sauce into the same skillet. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Gently place the browned meatballs into the simmering sauce.
Cook the Meatballs: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for at least 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy: Once the meatballs are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Let the meatballs rest in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve hot with your favorite sides!
Why You’ll Love These Greek Chicken Meatballs:
Imagine biting into a juicy, flavorful meatball, bursting with Mediterranean herbs and a salty, tangy creaminess from feta. That’s precisely what these Greek Chicken Meatballs deliver!. The combination of the lean chicken, fresh herbs, and feta cheese creates a delicious and satisfying mouthful. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also a cost-effective option for a weeknight meal.
Making meatballs at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid the preservatives often found in store-bought versions. The fresh oregano and lemon juice are my favorite additions, and make them even more delicious! If you enjoy these flavors, why not try another Mediterranean favorite like a Greek Lemon Chicken Soup? Now, grab your apron and give this recipe a try – you won’t regret it!
What to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs With:
To complete your Greek feast, consider serving these flavorful meatballs with a variety of complementary dishes. They pair perfectly with:
- Pasta: Tossed with the marinara sauce from the meatballs, pasta is a classic pairing.
- Rice: Fluffy rice, seasoned with a bit of olive oil and herbs, is a great way to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the meatballs and sauce.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and creamy tzatziki sauce makes a fantastic dipping sauce for the meatballs.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add a healthy and flavorful side.
Top Tips for Perfecting Greek Chicken Meatballs:
Want to make the best Greek Chicken Meatballs ever? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t Overmix the Mixture: Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Mix gently until just combined.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano makes a big difference in the flavor. If You only have dried oregano in hand, then use 2 teaspoons instead of 2 tablespoons of fresh oregano.
- Brown the Meatballs: Searing the meatballs before simmering adds depth of flavor and helps them retain their shape.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan when browning can cause the meatballs to steam instead of brown properly. Cook in batches if needed.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the meatball mixture before forming the meatballs and adjust the seasoning as needed. Feta cheese is salty, so be careful not to over salt.
- Substitute the Meat: Ground lamb or Ground turkey can be substituted for the ground chicken, but flavors will be different.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Refrigerating: Allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs. Arrange the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- Refrigerated Meatballs: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the meatballs for a few minutes until warm.
- Frozen Meatballs: Thaw the frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated meatballs.
Enjoy!
Final Thoughts:
These Greek Chicken Meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re easy, delicious, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. With their burst of Mediterranean flavors, they’re sure to become a new family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the recipe to your liking. Happy cooking!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest