Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Healthy Dinner

When it comes to quick, flavorful, and healthy dinners, nothing beats Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs. These juicy, golden-brown meatballs combine lean ground chicken with fresh herbs, feta cheese, garlic, and spices for a dish that’s both wholesome and bursting with flavor. Whether you serve them with tzatziki, over couscous, or wrapped in warm pita bread, these meatballs bring a taste of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even party appetizers. Best of all, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients, and the result is a dish your family will request again and again.

Why You’ll Love These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs

1. Healthy and Lean: Made with ground chicken, they are lower in fat but still packed with flavor.
2. Versatile: Enjoy them in wraps, grain bowls, salads, or on their own with dipping sauces.
3. Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
4. Mediterranean Inspired: The combination of fresh parsley, dill, lemon, and feta gives them an authentic Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 small onion, finely grated or minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For Serving:

• Tzatziki sauce
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
• Optional: warm pita, salad, or couscous

Instructions

1. Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, dill, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
2. Shape the meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and place them on a plate or baking sheet.
3. Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
4. Serve and enjoy: Place the cooked meatballs on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with tzatziki, lemon wedges, and your choice of sides.

Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs

Juicy, herby chicken meatballs with feta, garlic, and Mediterranean spices. Perfect with tzatziki and pita.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Appetizer, Dinner

Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meatball Mix

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs panko preferred
• 0.25 cup feta cheese crumbled
• 1 egg large
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 0.5 onion grated
• 2 tbsp parsley fresh, chopped
• 1 tbsp dill fresh, chopped
• 1 tsp oregano dried
• 0.5 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp cumin ground
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, dill, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
2. Shape mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and place on a plate or baking sheet.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
4. Serve with tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs.

Notes

For a lighter option, bake meatballs at 400°F for 18–20 minutes.

Tips for Success

• Keep them juicy: Add grated onion to the mixture for moisture.
• Chill before cooking: If the mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate shaped meatballs for 20 minutes before cooking.
• Oven option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a lighter version.
• Freezer friendly: Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp red pepper flakes or cayenne to the mix.
• Cheese Swap: Replace feta with goat cheese or Parmesan.
• Herb Twist: Try fresh mint or basil for a new flavor dimension.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute almond flour for breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Mediterranean Plate: Serve with hummus, tabbouleh, and pita bread.
• Low-Carb Bowl: Pair with cauliflower rice, roasted vegetables, and tzatziki.
• Party Appetizer: Serve on skewers with a drizzle of lemon-yogurt sauce.
• Kid-Friendly Meal: Wrap in flatbread with lettuce, tomato, and a touch of ranch.

Fun Fact: The Mediterranean Diet Connection

The Mediterranean diet is known worldwide for promoting heart health and longevity. Rich in olive oil, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and herbs, this way of eating emphasizes balance and flavor. These chicken meatballs fit right in, combining lean protein with the bright, bold flavors the region is famous for.