Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful, and packed with Mediterranean spices, these chicken meatballs are a perfect protein-rich dish that pairs beautifully with salads, rice, or warm pita bread. They are easy to make, healthy, and great for meal prep!
Growing up, Mediterranean flavors were always a favorite in my kitchen.
The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and warm spices creates a comforting and delicious dish every time.
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are inspired by classic recipes but made with a healthier twist using ground chicken.
Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or serving them at a gathering, they are sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This
- Healthy & Protein-Packed – Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are high in protein and lower in fat.
- Bursting with Flavor – A mix of Mediterranean spices, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy to Make – Quick to prep and cook, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile – Serve with rice, salads, wraps, or even on their own as a snack!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Cuisines: Mediterranean
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $10
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet or skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Large spoon or scoop
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup finely chopped parsley
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Zest of 1 lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the meatballs: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll into small meatballs. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Cook the meatballs:
- For baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown.
- For pan-frying: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve & enjoy: Pair the meatballs with tzatziki, hummus, or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
Tips for Success
- Use fresh herbs – Fresh parsley adds a great burst of flavor; don’t skip it!
- Don’t overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Use a scoop – A cookie scoop helps create evenly sized meatballs for even cooking.
- Check doneness – Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Common Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I freeze Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs?
Absolutely! Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or stovetop before serving.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
They go great with couscous, rice, roasted vegetables, or wrapped in pita with tzatziki sauce.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
Enjoy making these flavorful Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs!
Let me know how they turn out in the comments, and happy cooking!
