These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! They’re made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, and a hint of spices, making them a tasty treat.
They’re perfect for dinner or as a fun appetizer. I love serving them with a side of yogurt sauce for dipping. Trust me, you’ll want the recipe on repeat! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! If you want a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. For a richer flavor, consider using ground lamb, but it will alter the taste profile.
Bread Crumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs add a nice texture. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can do the trick. For gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty, nutty touch. If you don’t have it, pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Nutritional yeast could work for a dairy-free alternative, giving a cheesy flavor without the milk.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These bring wonderful sweetness. If you can’t find them, roasted red peppers are a flavorful alternative. Fresh tomatoes can be used, but reduce the liquid in the mixture.
Fresh Parsley: This herb brightens up the dish. If you like, swap it with basil or cilantro for a different twist. Dried herbs can substitute if fresh is unavailable, but cut back since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Well-Cooked?
To avoid dry meatballs, keep a few key points in mind:
- Do not overmix: Combine the ingredients until just mixed. Overworking can lead to tough meatballs.
- Form with gently: Use your hands lightly to shape. Too much pressure can compact them.
- Cooking time: Browning in the skillet adds flavor, but don’t skip baking to cook through evenly. Aim for an internal temp of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest them: Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture.
By following these tips, your Mediterranean chicken meatballs should turn out juicy and bursting with flavor!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mediterranean chicken meatball recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for cooking. The total time is around 45 minutes, and you’ll end up with scrumptious meatballs perfect for any meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Mixing Bowl:
First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl. You’ll be mixing all your delicious ingredients in here!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In the mixing bowl, throw in the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, finely chopped red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and the egg. Using your hands, mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy; it’s all part of the fun!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, it’s time to form the meatballs. Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into balls that are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go. You should get around 15-20 meatballs, depending on how big you make them.
4. Cook the Meatballs on the Stovetop:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are nicely browned on all sides. This step adds wonderful flavor!
5. Bake the Meatballs:
After browning, transfer the meatballs onto a baking sheet. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake them for 15-20 minutes. You want to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for them to be safe and scrumptious.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for just a minute. Serve your delicious Mediterranean chicken meatballs warm with a side of tzatziki sauce, a fresh salad, or even toss them into a grain bowl. Enjoy every bite of these flavorful little gems!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It has a similar texture and flavor, but make sure to adjust cooking times as needed, since turkey may vary in moisture content.
What Can I Substitute for Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can use fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers instead. Both options will add moisture and flavor, although fresh tomatoes might need to be drained to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
How to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool them completely first and then place in a freezer-safe container, where they’ll last for about 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and form the meatballs ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook them and refrigerate or freeze them, then reheat when ready to serve!
