Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki is one of those recipes that takes you on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen. I remember the first time I tried them—it was a gathering with friends, and once those golden-brown meatballs were served alongside that refreshing tzatziki, they vanished within minutes. The mix of juicy ground chicken, fresh herbs, and zesty flavors creates a dish that feels both hearty and light, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an entertaining feast.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Why should you whisk away your evenings to make these Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki? Well, let me tell you! First off, they are incredibly quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Which means you can satisfy your cravings for something unique without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, using ground chicken is budget-friendly and lighter than traditional lamb or beef meatballs, making it a healthier option that even kids will love.
"These meatballs were a hit at our family dinner! The flavors were vibrant, and the tzatziki brought everything together perfectly!"
The Cooking Process Explained
Ready to create a delightful meal? Making Greek chicken meatballs with tzatziki is straightforward. You’ll start by whipping up the tzatziki, then mix the chicken meatball ingredients, shape them, and finally, pan-sear until they’re golden and tender. This recipe lays out a balance between fresh and warming flavors, making each bite memorable.
What You’ll Need
Gathering these items will put you on the path to deliciousness:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Feel free to experiment with substitutes—for instance, you can use Greek-style yogurt or low-fat varieties to lighten it up further.
