The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavorful dinner that comes together in just over half an hour, look no further than The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. These juicy meatballs are bursting with Mediterranean flair from fresh herbs, fragrant lemon zest, and a touch of garlic, then paired with refreshing homemade tzatziki for the perfect creamy contrast. Whether you’re craving something light yet satisfying or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this dish delivers pure delight with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how such simple, fresh ingredients work together to create a meal so full of flavor and color. Each component has its role — from the lean ground chicken’s tender bite to the crispness of cucumbers — making The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce positively irresistible.

• Ground chicken: Lean and mild, ground chicken lets all those wonderful Mediterranean flavors shine without being heavy.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together and keep them tender instead of tough.
• Egg: The egg is another key binder, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape and stay moist.
• Garlic (for both meatballs and tzatziki): Freshly minced garlic adds warmth and that unmistakable Greek aroma.
• Red onion: Finely chopped red onion brings a mild, savory note and a pop of color.
• Fresh parsley: This herb brightens both the mixture and the finished meatballs.
• Fresh dill: Dill is the secret to getting that fresh, classic Greek taste in both the meatballs and tzatziki.
• Lemon zest: Just a teaspoon transforms the whole dish with sunny citrus fragrance.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out all the flavors and highlighting the herbs.
• Black pepper: Adds subtle warmth without taking over.
• Olive oil: Use for drizzling before baking and in your tzatziki — it lends fruitiness and beautiful shine.
• Greek yogurt: Foundation of your tzatziki sauce; thick, tangy, and decadently creamy.
• Cucumber: Grated and drained, cucumber makes the tzatziki crisp and refreshing.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the tzatziki and brings everything together.
• Chopped dill (extra for tzatziki): A little more dill gives your sauce that unmistakable Mediterranean finish.
• Pinch of salt (for tzatziki): Just enough to bring out the flavors in your sauce and veggies.

How to Make The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped red onion, fresh parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. The trick is to mix until just combined — overmixing can make the meatballs tough. You want to see flecks of green and purple from the herbs and onion peeking through the mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Scoop out small amounts of the chicken mixture (I love using a cookie scoop for even size), and form into 1.5-inch meatballs. Arrange them slightly apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet; this helps them crisp up rather than steam while baking. You’ll want about 16 meatballs — perfect for sharing or for leftovers.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil, then bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 18 to 20 minutes. They’ll emerge golden, slightly crisp on the outside, and moist on the inside. There’s no frying or standing at the stove — just set a timer and let the oven do the magic.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to whip up the sauce that takes The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce to another level: classic tzatziki. Mix Greek yogurt, grated (and well-drained) cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and a generous pinch of salt. Give it a good stir, taste for seasoning, and let it chill in the fridge until serving. The extra time lets those bright, zesty flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the chilled tzatziki alongside your warm meatballs, or go the extra mile and drizzle some right over the top. The combination of hot, herb-flecked meatballs and cold, creamy sauce is what makes this dish truly unforgettable.

How to Serve The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh dill or chopped parsley on top, a dusting of lemon zest, or even some sliced cherry tomatoes. These vibrant additions make The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce look as inviting as they taste, and add little pops of herbaceous flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these meatballs with a simple Greek salad, some warm pita bread, or a bowl of rice pilaf. Roasted vegetables or lemony potatoes work beautifully, transforming The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce into a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the meatballs on skewers for easy party bites, tucked into pita with crisp greens for a wrap, or plated over a bed of quinoa and cucumbers for a low-carb meal. There’s no wrong way to enjoy The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce — let your creativity lead the way!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have extras? Store the cooked meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the sauce fresh and the meatballs from getting soggy, making for quick, delicious lunches or snacks.

Freezing

The meatballs freeze beautifully! Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. The tzatziki is best fresh, so whip up a new batch when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in a 350°F oven or the microwave until warmed through. For the best results, let them come to room temperature first. Freshen up the tzatziki with a little extra yogurt or lemon juice if needed.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe, and you’ll still get all the bright, tasty flavors you expect from The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce.

What’s the best way to grate and drain cucumber for the tzatziki?

Use a box grater or food processor for the cucumber, then sprinkle with a bit of salt and let it sit in a mesh sieve for 10 minutes. Squeeze or press gently to remove extra liquid. This step helps your tzatziki stay thick and creamy rather than watery.

Can I make The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day in advance, then bake when you’re ready. The tzatziki sauce can also be made a day ahead; the flavors only get better as they meld in the fridge.

How do I keep meatballs from sticking to my hands?

Lightly oil your palms or dampen them with water before shaping the meatballs. This makes the mixture easier to handle and helps form smooth, even shapes.

What other herbs could I add?

Fresh mint or a touch of oregano are delicious options that complement the parsley and dill. Feel free to tweak the herbs to match your personal favorites — that’s part of what makes The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce so fun and customizable!

Final Thoughts

If you love bold, fresh flavors and a dish that’s just as easy as it is impressive, you owe it to yourself to try The Best Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. There’s something magical about the combination of juicy, herb-packed chicken and cool, creamy tzatziki — so gather your ingredients and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen tonight!

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