Juicy Chicken Meatballs With Tangy Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Crafting delectable chicken meatballs with tzatziki sauce promises a Mediterranean culinary adventure that sparks joy in every bite.

Aromas of fresh herbs and spices will dance through your kitchen, inviting excitement.

Succulent ground chicken blends seamlessly with zesty ingredients, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

Crisp cucumber and cool yogurt in the tzatziki complement the savory meatballs with refreshing contrast.

Light yet satisfying, this dish offers a healthier alternative to traditional heavier recipes.

Herbs like mint and dill add vibrant notes that transport you to sunny Greek landscapes.

Each morsel promises a delightful journey of taste and texture that you won’t want to miss.

Prepare to wow everyone at the table with this simple yet impressive meal.

Chicken Meatballs Sauce Pairing Twists

• Gluten-Free Meatballs: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe celiac-friendly and maintain a similar texture.
• Vegetarian Protein Option: Replace ground chicken with plant-based ground meat alternatives like Beyond Meat or lentil-based crumbles for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Mediterranean Meatballs: Use ground pork or turkey instead of chicken, and substitute breadcrumbs with finely grated zucchini or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-Free Tzatziki Alternative: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt and add extra herbs like dill or mint to create a creamy, lactose-free sauce that complements the meatballs.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative with a similar texture and flavor profile. Just ensure you follow the same cooking instructions.

• How can I tell if the meatballs are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is safely cooked through.

• Is it possible to make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before baking, or even freeze them uncooked for up to 3 months. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cooking from frozen.

• Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki That Everyone Loves to Snack On

Quick and Easy Weeknight Winner: Whip up delicious chicken meatballs in under 30 minutes with minimal kitchen mess.

Healthier Protein Option: Lean ground chicken creates a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs, packed with protein and lower in fat.

Crowd-Pleasing Mediterranean Twist: Tzatziki sauce adds a creamy, tangy complement that transforms simple meatballs into a restaurant-worthy dish that appeals to all ages.

Versatile Meal Solution: Serve as appetizers, over salad, in wraps, or with pasta – these meatballs adapt perfectly to multiple meal styles and preferences.

Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce – Ingredients List

• Ground Chicken: Lean protein base for the meatballs, choose fresh and low-fat for healthier option.
• Egg: Binding agent that helps hold meatballs together, ensures proper texture and structure.

• Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Add texture and rich savory notes, use fine breadcrumbs for smooth consistency.
• Parsley, Garlic, Dried Oregano: Classic Mediterranean herbs and aromatics that provide depth and fragrance.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that boost overall flavor profile.

• Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy base for the sauce, select thick and high-quality yogurt.
• Cucumber: Provides fresh and cool element, best when freshly grated.
• Garlic: Adds sharp and pungent taste to the sauce.
• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Contribute brightness and richness, use extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
• Salt: Balances and enhances the sauce's overall taste.

Chicken Meatball Assembly with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a sizzling 400°F, getting ready for some serious chicken magic.

Step 2: Mix Meatball Masterpiece

• Ground chicken
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Egg

Dive in with your hands and blend everything until it’s perfectly combined.

Step 3: Shape Those Delicious Balls

Roll the mixture into cute little meatballs.

Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each one some breathing room.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven.

Let the meatballs cook for 20-25 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through.

Step 5: Whip Up Creamy Tzatziki

• Greek yogurt
• Grated cucumber
• Minced garlic
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt

Stir everything together until smooth and dreamy.

Step 6: Serve and Devour

Pull out those gorgeous meatballs and serve them piping hot with the cool, tangy tzatziki sauce.

Prepare for taste bud celebration!

Meatball Cooking Tricks for Tzatziki Pairings

• Add a splash of olive oil or milk to the ground chicken mixture to keep meatballs moist and tender.
• Toast dried oregano in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding to enhance its aromatic qualities and intensify the herb's taste.
• Use slightly wet hands when forming meatballs to prevent sticking and create smooth, uniform spheres that cook evenly.
• Choose lean ground chicken breast and use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier protein-packed alternative to traditional meatballs.
• Drain excess cucumber liquid through a cheesecloth or fine strainer to prevent watery tzatziki and maintain a creamy texture.

Store Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap meatballs separately in freezer-safe bags or containers, protecting them from freezer burn. They'll maintain quality for up to 3 months.
• Warm meatballs in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to preserve moisture and flavor.
• Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warmed, preventing dryness.

Side Dishes for Tzatziki Chicken Meatballs

• Savor Mediterranean Wine Pairing: Crisp, light white wines like Assyrtiko from Greece perfectly complement the chicken meatballs' delicate flavors, cutting through the richness with bright, zesty notes.
• Greek-Inspired Side Dish: Serve with a refreshing Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese, mirroring the tzatziki's cool, tangy profile and adding vibrant texture to the meal.
• Herb-Infused Bread Companion: Offer warm pita bread or garlic-herb focaccia as a side, allowing guests to scoop up meatballs and tzatziki sauce while enhancing the Mediterranean dining experience with aromatic carbohydrates.
• Citrus-Kissed Beverage Pairing: Select a sparkling lemonade or ouzo-based cocktail to amplify the dish's lemony undertones, providing a crisp, light refreshment that balances the meatballs' savory character.

Chicken Meatballs With Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean culinary magic unfolds with these zesty chicken meatballs nestled in creamy tzatziki sauce. Greek-inspired flavors dance on your palate, promising a delightful journey through classic Mediterranean comfort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb (0.45 kg) ground chicken

Dry and Herbs:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg

Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to a searing 400°F (200°C), ensuring your baking sheet is lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, blend ground chicken with breadcrumbs, creating a foundational mixture that will give the meatballs their perfect texture.
3. Introduce Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and minced garlic to the mixture, infusing layers of robust Mediterranean flavors.
4. Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and black pepper into the blend, then crack an egg to help bind the ingredients together.
5. Gently fold and knead the mixture until all components are harmoniously integrated, avoiding overworking the meat to maintain tenderness.
6. Using clean hands, roll the mixture into uniformly sized small meatballs, placing them carefully on the prepared baking sheet with slight spacing between each.
7. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, rotating midway to ensure even golden-brown coloration and complete cooking.
8. Meanwhile, craft the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt with freshly grated cucumber, releasing its moisture to create a creamy base.
9. Incorporate minced garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, zesty lemon juice, and a pinch of salt into the yogurt mixture, stirring until smooth and well-blended.
10. Remove meatballs from the oven once they’ve achieved a crisp exterior and juicy interior, letting them rest briefly.
11. Plate the golden meatballs alongside the cool, tangy tzatziki sauce, inviting guests to dip and savor the complementary temperatures and flavors.

Notes

• Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
• Remove excess moisture from grated cucumber by squeezing it with a clean kitchen towel to prevent watery tzatziki sauce.
• Use a light-colored baking sheet to prevent burning and ensure even browning of the meatballs.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the meatball mixture for a deeper, more complex taste profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg