Step-by-step instructions
Cooking these meatballs is as fun as it is easy. Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Mix until well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Arrange the meatballs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with the homemade tzatziki sauce.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Greek Chicken Meatballs shine best when served piping hot. Try plating them beautifully on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon. They pair wonderfully with a side of fluffy rice, a refreshing Greek salad, or even warm pita bread. For a delightful appetizer, you can skewer them onto toothpicks and serve alongside tzatziki for dipping.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When reheating from frozen, pop them in the oven for the best texture rather than microwaving them.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra zing, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Ensure that your meatballs are evenly sized for uniform cooking and to maintain the meatball structure.
- If you’re short on time, you can form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Consider adding crumbled feta cheese to the meatball mixture for a tangy surprise. You could also incorporate chopped spinach or swap the ground chicken for ground turkey for a slightly different flavor. For an Italian twist, mix in a touch of Italian seasoning and serve with marinara sauce instead of tzatziki.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare these meatballs?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and baking takes an additional 20-25 minutes, making the total time about 35-40 minutes.
Can I make tzatziki in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tzatziki sauce up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
Are there any substitutions for ground chicken?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or even ground beef if you prefer a richer flavor. Just adjust cooking times if you’re using different meats.
With this recipe for Greek Chicken Meatballs and tzatziki sauce, you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
