Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
These Mediterranean chicken meatballs are a flavorful and healthy option for any meal. Made with fragrant herbs and garlic, they are simple to prepare and versatile for serving with various sauces or sides.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, oregano, and basil), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1 egg (for binding)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If using, add the egg and Parmesan cheese to help bind the mixture. Mix gently until just combined.
- Step 2: Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
- Step 3: Choose your cooking method: to bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and arrange meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned. To pan-fry, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, add a splash of milk or a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture.
- Try different herbs like mint or cilantro to vary the flavor profile.
- Serve with tzatziki, hummus, or your favorite Mediterranean sauce for a delicious finish.
- To keep meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the mixture.
Storage
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute and will produce a similar texture and flavor.
Do I need to add breadcrumbs or egg?
No, this recipe can work without them, but adding an egg or breadcrumbs can help bind the meatballs and keep them moist.
PrintMediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Made with lean ground chicken and a blend of aromatic Mediterranean herbs and garlic, they can be baked or pan-fried to perfection. Perfect as a main dish served with sides or as an appetizer, these meatballs bring a fresh, vibrant taste to your table with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 meatballs 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely grated onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for binder)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, ground cumin, grated onion, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs if using. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray to prepare for cooking.
- Cook the meatballs: Choose your preferred method: either bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through, or pan-fry them in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, turning carefully to brown all sides and ensure thorough cooking.
- Rest and serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven or skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of Mediterranean sides such as tzatziki, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried if fresh are not available, using smaller quantities as dried herbs have a stronger flavor.
- For gluten-free options, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
- These meatballs can be prepared in advance and frozen uncooked for up to 1 month; thaw before cooking.
- To keep the meatballs moist, avoid overcooking.
- Serve with sauces like tzatziki or hummus to enhance Mediterranean flavors.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken meatballs, baked chicken meatballs, healthy chicken meatballs, herb chicken meatballs, garlic chicken meatballs
