Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki: A Mediterranean Flavor Explosion

When you think of Mediterranean cuisine, you probably imagine the fresh, vibrant ingredients that make up Greek salads, juicy grilled meats, and tangy dips like tzatziki. One dish that captures all of this flavor and nutrition in one bite is Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki.

This meal is everything you want from a healthy Mediterranean dinner—simple to make, packed with protein, and bursting with herbs, garlic, lemon, and creamy feta. Whether you’re looking for quick Mediterranean meals on busy weeknights, prepping for holiday gatherings with a Mediterranean twist, or just craving a satisfying yet guilt-free dinner, this dish delivers in every way.

🍽️ A Dish Rooted in Mediterranean Tradition

Greek cuisine has always emphasized seasonal produce, lean meats, and healthy fats. This recipe leans into those traditions while offering a modern, quick-cook twist.

L' Mediterranean chicken meatballs are juicy and aromatic, combining ground chicken with parsley, oregano, lemon zest, garlic, and crumbled feta. Paired with cool, creamy tzatziki made from Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and dill, these meatballs are an easy ticket to a Greek island-inspired dinner without leaving your kitchen.

Why This Dish Works

Fresh & Flavorful: Every bite is infused with zesty lemon, garlic, herbs, and salty feta.
Wholesome & Nutritious: High in protein and low in carbs.
Polyvalent: Enjoy them in bowls, wraps, as appetizers, or even in a Mediterranean-inspired holiday spread.
Easy to Prepare: Minimal effort and ready in under 30 minutes!

🧆 The Full Recipe: Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki

Servings: 4–5

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15–18 minutes

Total Time: 30–35 minutes

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground chicken or turkey
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
2 gousses d'ail, émincées
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional but adds brightness)
1 c. à thé d'origan séché
1 tsp ground cumin
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
1 egg
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 c. à soupe d'huile d'olive (for pan-frying)

For the Homemade Tzatziki:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 English cucumber, grated
1 garlic clove, grated or minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Sel et poivre, au goût

👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tzatziki

Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
In a bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Refrigerate while preparing the meatballs to let flavors meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, feta, red onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, lemon zest, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, and egg.
Season with salt and pepper.
Mix gently until everything is combined—don’t overwork it.
Form into 1.5-inch meatballs (about 16–18 total).

Étape 3: faire Cuire les Boulettes de viande

Option 1: Pan-Fry (Best Flavor!)

Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Add meatballs in batches and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

Option 2: Oven-Baked (Hands-Off)

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange meatballs and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

🥗 How to Serve Greek Chicken Meatballs

These meatballs are incredibly adaptable and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a Mediterranean Christmas food spread, hosting a summer party, or meal prepping for the week, these serving ideas have you covered.

1. Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls

Create a bowl with a base of brown rice, couscous, or quinoa. Add chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, pickled onions, and dollops of tzatziki. Top with meatballs, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

2. Pita Wraps or Gyros

Stuff warm pita bread with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and meatballs. Add tzatziki and a drizzle of tahini or hot sauce. Wrap it all up for the perfect portable Mediterranean meal.

3. Plateau Apéritif

Arrange meatballs on a board with toothpicks, a bowl of tzatziki, olives, grape tomatoes, marinated artichokes, and pita wedges. A show-stopping starter for any event.

4. Holiday Party Fare

Add these to your Christmas dinner as a unique alternative to classic appetizers. Pair with roasted red peppers, rosemary sprigs, and tzatziki for a festive Mediterranean twist.

💡 Recipe Tips and Variations

Prêt-À-Friendly: Both tzatziki and meatballs can be prepped a day ahead.
Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey, lamb, or beef for a richer flavor.
Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour and serve over zucchini noodles or salad.
Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or harissa to the meat mix for heat.
More Herbs, More Flavor: Basil, dill, or scallions can be added to the meat mixture.

🍴 Nutritional Benefits

Greek chicken meatballs are part of a heart-healthy, balanced lifestyle. Here’s what makes them a top choice for a healthy meal with meatballs:

✅ High in Lean Protein

Chicken and Greek yogurt are excellent protein sources that help keep you full.

✅ Low in Carbs

Especially when served with veggies or salad, this meal is keto-friendly and satisfying.

✅ Rich in Antioxidants and Healthy Fats

Thanks to olive oil, fresh herbs, and garlic—essential staples in the Mediterranean diet.

✅ Gut-Friendly

Tzatziki made from Greek yogurt provides probiotics for digestive health.

🔁 Meal Prep and Storage

Meal Preppers, rejoice! These meatballs hold up wonderfully for multiple days and freeze beautifully.

Refrigerator:

Store meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
Freeze cooked meatballs for 2–3 months; reheat in a skillet or oven.

Réchauffage:

Skillet: Reheat over low heat with a splash of water or oil.
Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, covered, to prevent drying.

🧡 Perfect for Holidays & Gatherings

If you’re tired of the usual cocktail sausages and cheese platters, these chicken feta meatballs offer a classy, festive alternative. Use them as:

A starter at a Mediterranean Christmas dinner
A light main dish at a summer BBQ
Protein-packed bites for family-friendly dinner nights

Decorate the platter with rosemary sprigs, lemon wedges, and pomegranate arils for holiday flair!

📖 Fun Fact: What Makes These Meatballs “Greek”?

Traditional Greek cuisine often incorporates lemon, garlic, oregano, and dairy (especially feta or yogurt) into everyday cooking. These meatballs mirror the flavors found in dishes like keftedes (Greek-style meatballs) and pair naturally with tzatziki, a signature Greek condiment made from strained yogurt, cucumber, and herbs.

Incorporating these elements into a ground chicken base keeps things light and healthy while still packing that Mediterranean punch.

🌍 Explore More Mediterranean Recipes Meatballs

Looking to build your Mediterranean recipe collection? Here are a few variations you’ll love:

Lamb Meatballs with Mint Yogurt Sauce
Baked Turkey Meatballs with Lemon & Dill
Chickpea & Quinoa Vegan Meatballs
Spiced Beef Kofta with Tahini Sauce

Each can be served with tzatziki or swapped for another Greek dip like melitzanosalata (eggplant dip) or hummus.

📌 Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Mediterranean Meal

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki are your new go-to for healthy weeknight dinners, festive spreads, and nutritious meal prep alike. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they embody the very best of Mediterranean cuisine—fresh herbs, bright lemon, savory feta, and creamy yogurt.

These aren’t just meatballs—they’re a Mediterranean moment on a plate.