Description
Greek Chicken Meatballs
Juicy, Herby, and Full of Sunshine
These Greek-inspired meatballs are tender, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving as appetizers. Bright lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs make every bite feel like a Mediterranean vacation.
Ingredients
Meatballs:
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1 lb (450 g) ground chicken (mix of breast & thigh for juiciness)
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for crispiness or almond flour for gluten-free)
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1 large egg
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2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Zest of 1 lemon
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Boosters:
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¼ cup crumbled feta
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2–3 tbsp finely chopped spinach
For Cooking:
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Olive oil, for skillet or baking sheet
Instructions
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Mix the Meatball Base:
In a large bowl, combine chicken, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing makes meatballs dense. Fold in feta or spinach if using. -
Form Meatballs:
Moisten hands with water or oil. Scoop ~1½ tbsp of mixture and roll into 1½-inch balls. You should get ~20–22 meatballs. Use a small cookie scoop for even sizing. -
Cook the Meatballs:
Skillet Method (Golden & Quick):
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Heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
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Add meatballs in a single layer (don’t crowd).
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Cook 6–8 minutes, turning gently to brown all sides.
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Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Oven Method (Hands-Off):
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place meatballs on parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly oil.
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Bake 18–20 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Hybrid Method: Quickly sear in skillet for color, finish in oven for convenience.
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Rest:
Let meatballs sit 5 minutes after cooking. This locks in juices and keeps them tender.
Notes
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Falling apart? Add more breadcrumbs or chill meatballs 20–30 min before cooking.
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Make ahead? Form or fully cook meatballs; store in fridge (up to 4 days) or freeze for later.
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Dry meatballs? Don’t overmix; don’t overcook; use thigh for juiciness; rest 5 minutes.
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Alternative cooking: Bake and finish under broiler 1–2 min for color.