If you love dishes bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, then you are going to adore this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe. It combines tender ground chicken with savory feta, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs for a meal that feels both comforting and remarkably fresh. Whether you’re serving these meatballs for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, their irresistibly juicy texture and delightful Mediterranean flair will make you want to cook them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but so thoughtfully chosen to create a dish rich in flavor, texture, and a beautiful Mediterranean color palette. Each element plays its part, from the protein-packed chicken to the salty feta and the aromatic herbs that bring everything together.
- 1 lb ground chicken: Lean and protein-packed base for the meatballs that keeps them tender.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture while keeping it light and moist for perfect meatballs.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder, holding the mix together beautifully.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy, salty texture that’s signature to Mediterranean cuisine.
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion: Provides a mild, sweet flavor that complements the chicken well.
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a rich, tangy taste that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Enhances flavor and moisture, keeping the meatballs juicy.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that infuses the meatballs with warm, earthy notes.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle pungency to the seasoning.
- ½ tsp dried dill: Brings a fresh, herby note that lightens the flavor profile.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the tastes in the meatballs.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Provides a mild kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Fresh mint or parsley (for garnish): Adds a burst of freshness and a lovely pop of color when served.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures the meatballs will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior that’s so satisfying.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, plus it helps the meatballs cook evenly without drying out.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together your ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, crumbled feta, finely chopped red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. Combining all these flavorful ingredients ensures every single bite is packed with that delicious Mediterranean zing.
Step 4: Mix Thoroughly
Use your hands or a spoon to blend the mixture well until everything is evenly spread throughout. This step is key to getting consistent flavor and texture in each meatball.
Step 5: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs. Keeping them uniform in size helps them cook at the same rate and look beautiful when plated. Place them on your lined baking sheet, evenly spaced to allow for proper heat circulation.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown on the outside and completely cooked through inside. The scent filling your kitchen at this point is pure Mediterranean magic.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish the meatballs with fresh mint or parsley. This simple touch not only adds vibrant green color but also a refreshing burst that perfectly complements the savory meatballs.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Serve these delicious meatballs with warm pita bread, fluffy rice, or a crisp Greek salad for a meal that will transport you straight to the coast of the Mediterranean with each mouthful.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like mint or parsley are fantastic as they add brightness and a pop of color, making the dish feel lively and fresh. A sprinkle of feta on top can add an extra creamy, salty punch if you’re a cheese fan.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair beautifully with classic sides such as warm pita, lemony couscous, or a Greek salad full of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onion. The combination creates a well-rounded, wholesome meal that’s perfect any day of the week.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, skewer a few meatballs on wooden sticks for a fun appetizer or serve them over a bed of herbed quinoa to add more texture. You could even turn them into sliders with a dollop of tzatziki and crisp lettuce for a Mediterranean twist on a classic sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor wonderfully and make a quick, satisfying meal or snack when reheated.
Freezing
These meatballs freeze beautifully! Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months and freeze without losing moisture or taste.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them covered with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, but the oven method keeps the texture better.
FAQs
Can I use another type of ground meat for this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken keeps these meatballs light and lean, ground turkey or even lamb can be great alternatives that add different flavors while staying true to the Mediterranean spirit.
Are Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, since panko breadcrumbs contain gluten. However, you can easily swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this dish friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, these meatballs can be prepped and shaped a day in advance, stored in the fridge, then baked just before serving. This is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to prepare ahead for guests.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe for a lighter meal?
If you want to keep things light, pair these meatballs with a fresh, crisp salad or roasted vegetables. A tangy tzatziki sauce also adds a cool contrast and keeps the meal feeling refreshing rather than heavy.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
They should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, slicing into one to check that it’s no longer pink inside will work too.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is truly a staple for anyone who loves a dish that’s bursting with flavor, simple to make, and endlessly versatile. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy feta, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs creates something genuinely special. I can’t wait for you to try this and see just how easy and delightful Mediterranean cooking can be right in your own kitchen!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs offer a flavorful and healthy twist on classic meatballs. Made with lean ground chicken, tangy feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, they are baked to perfection for a juicy and tender bite. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, served alongside pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad for a wholesome Mediterranean meal.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and protein-packed base for the meatballs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture while keeping it light and moist
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – Adds a creamy, salty texture
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion – Mild, sweet flavor
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a rich, tangy taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Enhances flavor and moisture
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Mediterranean herb for flavor
- ½ tsp garlic powder – Adds depth to seasoning
- ½ tsp dried dill – Fresh, herby note
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances flavors
- ¼ tsp black pepper – Mild kick
For Garnishing
- Fresh mint or parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking the meatballs.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine Thoroughly: Mix all the ingredients well until they are evenly distributed, ensuring a consistent texture and flavor throughout the meatball mixture.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small golf ball-sized meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and sprinkle with fresh mint or parsley for added freshness and color.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the meatballs alongside pita bread, rice, or a fresh Greek salad to complete your Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- Ensure meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Using panko breadcrumbs helps keep the meatballs light; regular breadcrumbs can be used but may alter texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be substituted with roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
