Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving fresh Mediterranean flavors and a meal that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are about to become your new go-to recipe. Tender, juicy meatballs bursting with herbs and a hint of Parmesan are oven-baked to perfection, then paired with a tangy, cool, and creamy tzatziki sauce. This combination is a weeknight lifesaver that balances vibrant flavor with nourishing ingredients, and it’s perfect for serving at gatherings or simply brightening up your dinner routine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Good cooking starts with simple ingredients used thoughtfully, and that’s especially true with Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. Each ingredient not only brings its own special quality to the table but also weaves together that beloved Greek flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need, with a little tip on what makes each one special:

• Ground chicken: The base for juicy, protein-packed meatballs that stay light and flavorful.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture and keeps the meatballs tender, not dense.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth and helps with browning.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Gives a burst of color and freshness in every bite.
• Garlic (for the meatballs): Just one clove packs incredible savory flavor to elevate the taste.
• Egg: Acts as the glue to hold everything together and boost moisture.
• Dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that brings warmth and aroma.
• Salt and pepper: Rounds out the flavors and ensures a perfectly seasoned bite.
• Greek yogurt: The ultra-creamy base for traditional tzatziki sauce.
• Cucumber (for the sauce): Grated for crisp texture and refreshing flavor.
• Garlic (for tzatziki): Adds gentle punch and depth to the sauce.
• Olive oil: A touch of richness and classic Mediterranean flair for the tzatziki.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings bright acidity and freshness to the sauce.
• Salt (for tzatziki): Just enough to tie all the sauce flavors together.

How to Make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the meatballs hit a hot oven right away so they develop that beautiful golden color and cook evenly throughout for the best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy spatula to mix until everything is just combined. This mix will smell absolutely heavenly already—the herbs and cheese shine right through!

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

Form the mixture into meatballs, aiming for about golf ball size for even cooking. Arrange them on a baking sheet (a little space between each helps them brown nicely). Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through and golden. Your kitchen will fill with the most irresistible aroma during this step—pure anticipation!

Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs bake, it’s time to whip up the sauce that makes Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce truly shine. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until silky and smooth. Chill in the fridge to let the flavors meld, if you have a few extra minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the meatballs finish baking, pile them onto a plate and serve right alongside the creamy tzatziki. Each bite pairs juicy chicken with a cool, herby sauce—a classic Greek combo that’s totally irresistible.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Garnishes

Accent your meatballs with a scattering of extra chopped parsley, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and maybe a touch more cracked black pepper. A drizzle of good olive oil just before serving amps up both the color and the aromatic appeal of your Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce.

Side Dishes

These meatballs love company! Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice, tucked into warm pita with crisp lettuce and tomatoes, or next to a simple Greek salad loaded with olives and feta. Even roasted veggies make a great pairing to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, skewer the meatballs with toothpicks and serve the tzatziki sauce in a little bowl for dipping—hello, perfect appetizer! Or build colorful bowls with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a few of these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce perched on top. Wrap them in lettuce cups for a delightful low-carb option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container, keeping the meatballs and sauce separate so each stays at its best texture.

Freezing

The meatballs themselves are freezer-friendly! Let them cool fully after baking, then spread on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed. For the tzatziki, it’s freshest when made day-of, but you can mix everything except the cucumber and add that fresh once you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

To reheat meatballs, gently warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. A quick spin in the microwave also works, just cover them so they don’t dry out. Stir up the tzatziki before serving, and you’re set for leftovers that taste just as good as day one!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in place of chicken and will taste just as delicious in Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. Go for lean, not extra-lean, to keep things juicy.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version?

Swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely ground oats. Both will help bind the meatballs while still keeping a tender texture. Just make sure your Parmesan is gluten-free too!

Can I make the meatball mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the mixture and keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to a day in advance. This way, you can shape and bake your Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce quickly when you’re ready to cook.

Is the tzatziki sauce spicy?

Nope, tzatziki is all about cool, creamy, and tangy flavors. If you want a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne or a few chopped fresh herbs like dill or mint for extra zest.

How do I keep my meatballs from drying out?

Be sure not to overbake them—20 to 25 minutes is plenty! Using the right amount of breadcrumbs and egg keeps your Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce moist and succulent every time.

Final Thoughts

Bursting with flavor, color, and comfort, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are a dish worth making again and again. Whether you’re feeding the whole family, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe never disappoints. Grab your ingredients and give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

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