Greek Chicken Meatballs offer a delightful twist on a classic meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Picture this: tender, juicy meatballs bursting with the fresh flavors of parsley and mint, all while being a healthy option. These Greek Chicken Meatballs are quick and easy to make, making them ideal for any weeknight dinner. Plus, they’re gluten-free thanks to almond flour, which adds a nice nutty taste without compromising the traditional flavor profile. The best part? They come together in just about 30 minutes, giving you more time to relax. Serve them over rice, drizzle with tzatziki, and garnish with fresh veggies for a plate that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So, let’s dive into this recipe that combines healthy ingredients with mouth-watering flavors, guaranteeing that dinner will be a hit!
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why This Recipe Works
One of the standout features of this recipe is the combination of fresh herbs like parsley and mint. They bring a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. Compared to other meatballs, Greek Chicken Meatballs, made with ground chicken, are lean yet tender. The ground chicken makes them juicy while still being light.
Another key ingredient is almond flour, which keeps the meatballs gluten-free. It adds a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the herbs nicely. Moreover, by baking instead of frying, this recipe reduces the need for excess oil, making it a healthier option. This way, you can indulge without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Meatballs
You’ll absolutely love how perfect these meatballs are for a quick weeknight dinner. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. What’s more, the delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors tantalizes the taste buds in every bite.
These meatballs are also easily customizable for various dietary needs, being gluten-free and Whole30-compliant. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, they cater to different occasions beautifully. They fit right in whether it’s a casual family meal or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1/3 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp red onion, finely diced
- 3 tbsp fresh mint, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Cauliflower rice or brown rice (for serving)
- Cucumber (for garnish)
- Tomato (for garnish)
- Red onion (for garnish)
- Tzatziki sauce (for dipping)
Mixing the Meatball Mixture
Combine All Ingredients
Let’s kick things off by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, almond flour, egg, parsley, red onion, mint, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, and salt. Make sure everything is ready to go!
Mix Gently
Now, it’s time to mix! Using your hands, combine the ingredients gently. Avoid over-mixing, or you might end up with tough meatballs. The goal is to keep them tender and flavorful.
Forming the Meatballs
Shape the Mixture
Once everything is mixed, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized meatballs. Aim for about 20 meatballs so you have enough for everyone!
Place on Baking Sheet
Next, arrange the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet. Be sure to space them evenly apart; this helps them cook uniformly.
Baking the Meatballs
Bake in the Oven
Now that your meatballs are on the baking sheet, pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. Your kitchen will soon fill with a delicious aroma.
Preparing the Serving Bowl
Cook the Rice
While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to prepare your base. Cook cauliflower rice or brown rice according to the package instructions. This will be the perfect bed for your flavorful meatballs.
Chop the Garnishes
Next, chop some cucumber, tomato, and red onion for garnishing. These fresh ingredients add a great crunch and flavor to your dish.
Prepare Tzatziki Sauce
Don’t forget about the tzatziki sauce! You can make it yourself or buy some from the store. It adds a cool creaminess that perfectly complements the meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your warm Greek Chicken Meatballs over a bed of either cauliflower rice or brown rice. Then, garnish with fresh cucumber, tomato, and red onion for that vibrant touch. Finally, drizzle with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing finish. Your meal is complete, and it looks gorgeous!
Tips for Success
- Ensure that your ground chicken is fresh to get the best flavor possible.
- Remember not to over-mix the meatball mixture. Keeping them tender is key.
- Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices to match your personal taste. Cooking should be fun!
Variations
If you want to switch things up, you can substitute ground turkey if you prefer something different. For a salty, creamy twist, consider adding feta cheese. And if you’re feeling adventurous, spice it up by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can even freeze them for up to 3 months! Just reheat them in the oven for the best results, and you’re good to go.
Pairing Ideas
For a complete meal, serve the meatballs with a light Greek salad. They also pair beautifully with pita bread for a hearty lunch or alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome dinner. Each option expands on the delightful flavors you’ve created.
FAQs
1. Can I use different meat?
Definitely! Ground turkey or beef also works well in this recipe.
2. How can I make these meatballs spicier?
Simply add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture for that kick.
3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze them either raw or cooked in an airtight container for later use.
4. What can I serve them with?
They’re great with tzatziki, over rice, or in pitas with fresh veggies.
5. Do they reheat well?
Yes, just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
These Greek Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic go-to for a quick meal. With their rich flavors and convenient preparation, you’ll find that they make dinner time feel special without the fuss. Savor the tastes of the Mediterranean and enjoy the smiles around the table!
PrintGreek Chicken Meatballs
These Greek Chicken Meatballs are juicy, packed with flavor, and gluten-free. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1/3 cup almond flour
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp red onion, finely diced
- 3 tbsp fresh mint, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Cauliflower rice or brown rice (for serving)
- Cucumber (for garnish)
- Tomato (for garnish)
- Red onion (for garnish)
- Tzatziki sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients gently without over-mixing.
- Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 20 total.
- Place meatballs on the baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and browned.
- Prepare cauliflower or brown rice according to package instructions.
- Chop cucumber, tomato, and red onion for garnish.
- Prepare or purchase tzatziki sauce for serving.
- Serve meatballs over rice and garnish with fresh vegetables and tzatziki.
Notes
Use fresh ground chicken for optimal flavor.
Avoid over-mixing the meatball mixture for tenderness.
Experiment with herbs or spices to customize.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 90