If you’re craving something flavorful, wholesome, and downright irresistible, this Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is going to become your next kitchen favorite. Perfectly tender, bursting with vibrant herbs and the tangy punch of sun-dried tomatoes and feta, these meatballs strike a beautiful balance between juicy and fragrant. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or planning a casual gathering, this recipe brings the sunny Mediterranean coast right to your table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the carefully chosen ingredients that make every bite a delightful adventure. Each component brings something special—whether it’s texture, flavor, or a pop of color—making sure these meatballs are far from ordinary.
- 1 lb ground chicken: Lean and protein-packed base for tender meatballs that aren’t too heavy.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture while keeping it light and moist for the perfect bite.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold all the ingredients deliciously together.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy, salty texture that melts into the meatballs with every bite.
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion: Brings a mild, sweet flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a rich, tangy taste that elevates the flavors to another level.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Enhances flavor and moisture, making these meatballs irresistibly juicy.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb giving an earthy, herbal punch.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds depth to the seasoning without overpowering the other flavors.
- ½ tsp dried dill: Provides a fresh, herby note that brightens the entire dish.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential to enhance all the wonderful flavors.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick that rounds out the savory profile.
- Fresh mint or parsley (for garnish): Offers a burst of freshness and a beautiful pop of color on the plate.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to getting those meatballs beautifully golden on the outside while keeping them juicy inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, crumbled feta, finely chopped red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, and all your dried herbs and seasonings. Mixing everything well ensures that every bite is packed with balanced flavor and delightful texture.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs. Getting the size right helps them cook evenly and makes them perfect for serving as appetizers or part of a main course. Space them evenly on the baking sheet so the heat circulates nicely.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the meatballs for about 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and cooked through. The aroma in your kitchen will be impossible to resist by this point! Plus, baking is a great way to keep them moist without extra oil.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle fresh mint or parsley on top right before serving to add a vibrancy and freshness that complements the hearty flavors of the meatballs.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like mint or parsley not only add a splash of color but also a refreshing contrast to the savory, rich meatballs. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crumbled feta can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
These meatballs shine alongside fluffy rice, warm pita bread, or a crisp Greek salad—complete with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a tangy lemon dressing. The combination creates a balanced, satisfying Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate! Serve these meatballs as part of a mezze platter with hummus, tzatziki, and roasted vegetables, or skewer them for a fun party appetizer. You can even stuff them into pita pockets with fresh veggies and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
This Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe also freezes beautifully. Arrange cooked meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delicious taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them gently, but the oven method will keep them tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and will provide a similarly lean and mild-flavored base for the meatballs.
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
They aren’t gluten-free as written because of the panko breadcrumbs. However, you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture just right.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
If you don’t have feta on hand, goat cheese or ricotta can also add a creamy element, though the classic tangy flavor of feta is pretty unique and worth trying if possible.
Can I bake the meatballs at a lower temperature?
Baking at 400°F helps the meatballs get that golden crust while cooking through quickly. If you lower the temperature, expect longer cooking times and possibly less crispy exteriors.
How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?
Adding freshly minced garlic, lemon zest, or chopped fresh herbs like oregano and dill can boost flavor even more. Also, letting the mixture rest for 30 minutes before baking helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe is truly a joy to make and eat. It’s easy, packed with vibrant flavors, and versatile enough to impress family and friends any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be one you want to make again and again—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delight in these flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs, packed with lean ground chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. Baked to perfection, these meatballs offer a healthy and satisfying meal, accented with traditional herbs and a fresh garnish of mint or parsley.
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
Garnish
- Fresh mint or parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the meatballs.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 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. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs using your hands or a scoop, then place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the meatballs turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the meatballs with freshly chopped mint or parsley for added freshness and color.
- Complete the Meal: Serve the meatballs alongside pita bread, rice, or a crisp Greek salad for a wholesome Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Notes
- Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Use lean ground chicken to keep the meatballs healthy and light.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are oil-packed, drain them well before chopping.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs like oregano or dill if preferred.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee safety.
