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Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe

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These Mediterranean chicken meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and packed with fresh herbs and spices. They’re perfect for serving over a bed of couscous, in pita bread, or as a protein-packed appetizer with tzatziki sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving (Optional):
  • Pita bread or naan
  • Cooked couscous or rice
  • Tzatziki sauce
  • Fresh vegetables (e.g., cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Meatball Mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), egg, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
  2. Form the Meatballs:
    • Wet your hands lightly with water and form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. You should have about 16-18 meatballs.
  3. Cook the Meatballs:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan.
    • Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
  4. Serve:
    • Serve the meatballs warm with pita bread, couscous, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • You can bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes if you prefer a hands-off method.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • These meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.