Save Greek Chicken Meatballs with Zesty Lemon are packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors and make weeknight dinners feel special without much effort. These juicy chicken meatballs come together quickly and pair beautifully with a cool lemony yogurt sauce. They make a light but satisfying main dish and are always a crowd-pleaser when served as party bites.
The first time I made these Greek-inspired chicken meatballs was on a lazy Sunday, hoping to recreate flavors from a seaside taverna in Athens. Now they are my go-to anytime I need an easy dinner that feels effortless and impressive. My friends practically inhale them at gatherings.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: adds a delicate flavor and stays juicy when mixed gently
- Small onion grated: keeps the meatballs moist and melts into the mixture for a soft bite
- Garlic: offers essential Mediterranean depth and warmth
- Large egg: binds the mixture and helps the meatballs hold their shape
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs: provide structure without gluten and prevent dense meatballs choose a brand you know absorbs well
- Fresh parsley: brightens the overall taste select bunches with bright green leaves and no wilting
- Fresh dill: infuses a distinct Greek aroma chop just before adding for maximum freshness
- Dried oregano: is classic in Greek cuisine use good quality oregano for an intense herbal punch
- Lemon zest: supplies zestiness and vibrant aroma use a fresh unwaxed lemon and zest right before adding
- Lemon juice: adds tangy brightness and keeps the meat tender
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: season the mixture fully and bring out all the flavors always taste your salt to avoid over or under seasoning
- Olive oil: ensures a golden crust during frying use extra virgin for the most flavor
- For the Yogurt Sauce
- Greek yogurt: creates a lusciously thick and creamy base opt for full fat if possible
- Lemon juice: brings a gentle zing and wakes up the sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil: adds a peppery richness look for cold pressed
- Fresh garlic: lends bite and savoriness mince it finely so it melts into the sauce
- Fresh dill: brightens and ties the sauce to the herbs in the meatballs
- Salt and pepper: for balance taste and adjust till perfect
Instructions
- Prep the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl blend together the ground chicken grated onion garlic egg gluten-free breadcrumbs fresh parsley dill dried oregano lemon zest lemon juice salt and black pepper using a fork or your hands just until incorporated If you overmix the meatballs may become dense so light hands are key
- Shape the Meatballs
- Fill a small bowl with water to wet your hands This keeps the mixture from sticking Scoop about a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and gently roll it into balls You should get between 20 and 24 meatballs Place each one on a clean plate as you go If the mixture feels too soft refrigerate it for ten minutes before shaping
- Brown the Meatballs
- Set a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil Give the oil a minute to heat then add meatballs in a single layer with a bit of space between each Brown them on all sides turning gently with tongs or a spatula This should take about eight to ten minutes total The meatballs should be golden all over and cooked all the way through Remove and drain briefly on a plate lined with paper towel
- Make the Yogurt Sauce
- Add the Greek yogurt lemon juice olive oil minced garlic and chopped dill to a small bowl Sprinkle with salt and pepper Use a spoon to stir until smooth Taste and tweak with extra lemon or salt if needed
- Serve and Garnish
- Arrange the warm meatballs on a platter Drizzle or dollop the yogurt sauce over the top Scatter extra chopped dill and lemon wedges for a bright fresh finish Serve right away for the juiciest bite
Save My absolute favorite ingredient here is fresh dill It brings that unmistakable Greek flavor that always transports me to family trips by the sea Dill reminds me of my grandmother showing me how a tiny handful could transform a simple dinner into something special We still laugh about how she used to sneak extra into everything for color and aroma
Storage Tips
These meatballs keep well in the fridge for up to three days Store them in an airtight container and keep the yogurt sauce separate for best results Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to avoid drying out
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find ground chicken ground turkey works well Use regular breadcrumbs if gluten is not a concern and swap the herbs based on what you have Chives or mint can replace dill for a fresh twist
Serving Suggestions
Pile these meatballs on warm pita with sliced tomato and cucumber Add a side of Greek salad for extra crunch They are also wonderful over cooked rice or even wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter meal
Save This dish delivers zesty freshness and comfort in every bite Serve straight from the skillet for maximum juiciness and enjoy a taste of Greece at home
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes these chicken meatballs juicy?
The combination of ground chicken, grated onion, fresh herbs, and lemon juice adds tenderness and moisture, ensuring juicy meatballs.
- → Can I substitute turkey for chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute and delivers a similar flavor profile with the Mediterranean herbs and lemon.
- → What can I serve with these meatballs?
Pair them with Greek salad, rice, pita bread, or a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko for a complete meal.
- → Is the dish gluten-free?
It is gluten-free if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always verify ingredient labels to avoid hidden gluten.
- → How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?
Do not overmix the meatball mixture and avoid overcooking. Adding a little milk can boost juiciness as well.
- → Can the yogurt sauce be made ahead?
Yes, prepare it in advance and store covered in the fridge until serving to let flavors meld.