Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

These Mediterranean chicken meatballs are flavorful and easy to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner. Infused with fresh herbs and garlic, they bring a bright and savory taste to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (such as parsley, oregano, or mint), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Step 3: To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
4. Step 4: Alternatively, to pan-fry, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 12–15 minutes.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, add a beaten egg or a handful of breadcrumbs to the mixture before shaping.
• Serve with a side of tzatziki or a squeeze of lemon for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Try adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for a different spice profile.

Storage

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. They also freeze well—place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a good substitute and will work similarly in this recipe, though the flavor may be slightly different.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are no longer pink inside. Baking or pan-frying times are good guides, but using a meat thermometer ensures safety.

Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are flavorful, tender, and perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. Made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, and garlic, they can be baked or pan-fried for a delicious meal inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (baking) or 12 minutes (pan-frying)
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 20 meatballs 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for texture)
• 1 large egg

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, chopped onion, breadcrumbs if using, and the egg. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, evenly-sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This helps them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Meatballs: Choose your cooking method: either bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and browned, or pan-fry them in a large skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven or skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They pair well with tzatziki sauce, a fresh salad, or over rice or pasta.

Notes

• You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
• Adding breadcrumbs is optional but helps hold the meatballs together better.
• Make sure not to overmix the meat to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
• Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Keywords: Mediterranean chicken meatballs, baked chicken meatballs, healthy meatballs, garlic herb meatballs