Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Name: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil (for the meatballs); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained; 1 clove garlic, minced (for tzatziki); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil (for tzatziki); 1 tbsp chopped dill; Pinch of salt (for tzatziki)

December 10, 2025 by Mae

Plate of Greek chicken meatballs served with tzatziki sauce and herbs.

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Savory Delights: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Imagine a warm, inviting kitchen filled with the enticing aromas of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s a cozy evening, the kind that calls for a comforting meal shared with loved ones. As laughter fills the air, you find yourself basking in the joy of simple pleasures—food, family, and heartfelt conversations. Enter the star of your dinner table: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, promising to enchant palates and spark smiles.

These succulent chicken meatballs take a classic twist, drawing inspiration from the vibrant flavors of Greece. The tender texture, combined with a refreshing tzatziki sauce, creates a harmony that will transport you to the sun-drenched landscapes of the Mediterranean. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or tossed into a pita for a satisfying sandwich, these meatballs are sure to impress even the most discerning food lover.

As you gather your ingredients, let the anticipation build—this is a recipe that not only comforts but also inspires creativity in your kitchen. Let’s embark on this culinary journey and create something truly delicious together.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather everything you need. Don’t worry, the ingredients are straightforward, and the tools are those you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for the meatballs)
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
1 clove garlic, minced (for tzatziki)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil (for tzatziki)
1 tbsp chopped dill
Pinch of salt (for tzatziki)

Tools

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Skillet (optional, for browning)
Small mixing bowl (for tzatziki)
Grater (for cucumber)

How to Make It

Now that we have everything ready, let’s transform these ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. The process is simple and filled with joy as you prepare each component.

Prep the Base

Begin by creating the hearty mixture that will soon become the tender meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with breadcrumbs, a large egg, minced garlic, and the finely chopped red onion. As you mix these ingredients, notice the way the chicken binds with the breadcrumbs, forming a slightly sticky texture that promises moistness. Toss in the fresh parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper, and use your hands or a spatula to blend gently. The fresh herbs create a beautiful mosaic of green amidst the pale chicken, while the lemon zest infuses a vibrant aroma that whets your appetite.

Shape and Bake

Once your mixture is well-combined, it’s time to shape the meatballs. With your hands, form the mixture into 1.5-inch balls, rolling them gently to ensure they’re nice and compact. Place each meatball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, marveling at their uniform size—this will help them cook evenly. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for a golden finish and pop the tray into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Listen to the satisfying sizzle as the meatballs begin their transformation, baking for 18-20 minutes until they reach a glorious golden hue and are cooked through. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the comforting scent of roasted chicken and herbs, beckoning everyone to dinner.

Whip Up the Tzatziki

While the meatballs are baking, turn your attention to the refreshing tzatziki sauce that will elevate this dish to new heights. In a small mixing bowl, combine the creamy Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, another clove of minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt. As you whisk these ingredients together, notice the vibrant color and thick texture of the yogurt, which transforms into a smooth, luscious sauce. The mingling of garlic and lemon brightens the tzatziki, making it a perfect match for the warm, savory meatballs. Cover the bowl and let the sauce chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve and Savor

The moment has arrived! As the timer beeps and you pull the golden meatballs from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes. The outside is crispy, while the inside is tender and juicy—a wonderful contrast in textures. Plate the meatballs and either drizzle the tzatziki over them or serve it alongside as a dipping sauce. Picture a vibrant plate filled with these delightful chicken meatballs, their appetizing aroma mingling with the fresh tzatziki, begging to be devoured.

Creative Twists

While these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce shine in their traditional form, there are plenty of opportunities to mix things up and add your personal touch:

Seasonal Flavors: In the fall, toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the meat mixture for a warm, earthy flavor. In the summer, explore adding finely chopped bell peppers for sweetness and crunch.
Herb Upgrades: Experiment with different herbs! Instead of parsley and dill, try fresh mint for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with tzatziki.
Spice it Up: Add a hint of cayenne or smoked paprika to your meatball mixture for a lively kick.
Swap Out Proteins: Ground turkey or lamb can be substituted for chicken, each bringing their unique flavors to the dish.
Vegetarian Option: Crushed chickpeas, a mix of grains like quinoa or bulgur, and added vegetables can create a satisfying vegetarian version of these meatballs.

Final Inspiration

As you indulge in these delectable Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce, take a moment to savor not just the flavors but the memories being created around your dining table. Food is more than sustenance; it’s a way to connect and celebrate life’s wonderful moments. We invite you to share this recipe with family and friends, making it a beloved part of your culinary repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the art of cooking together. Here’s to the joy of homemade meals—may your kitchen be filled with laughter and warmth, one delicious bite at a time!

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