Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Packed with garlic, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese, they make a delicious, easy meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, oregano, and mint), chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for baking
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped herbs, crumbled feta, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Step 3: Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 4: Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown and keep moist during baking.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, add a beaten egg or a couple of tablespoons of breadcrumbs to the mixture.
- Swap the feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture and tangy flavor.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad to complete the Mediterranean experience.
- If you prefer, pan-fry the meatballs in olive oil instead of baking for a crispier outside.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight 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 works well as a substitute and will deliver a similar mild flavor and texture.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should be firm and no longer pink inside when cut open.
PrintMediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy dish combining lean ground chicken with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, they offer a deliciously tender inside with a slightly crisp exterior. Ideal as a main course or appetizer, they bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort and wholesome ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 20 meatballs) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley and mint, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until well incorporated but do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the center. You can check doneness by cutting one open or using a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve Warm: Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with sides like tzatziki sauce, a fresh salad, or warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or almond flour.
- If you prefer a spicier twist, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Leftover meatballs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- These meatballs can be frozen before baking; bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken meatballs, baked chicken meatballs, healthy chicken recipe, feta meatballs, garlic herb meatballs
