Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of tender chicken meatballs with the refreshing coolness of tzatziki. This recipe not only tastes amazing but is also a healthy option packed with protein and lower in fat, making it a great choice for families looking for nutritious meals. The balance of herbs and spices in the meatballs complements the creamy yogurt sauce, serving as the perfect pairing for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to gatherings.
Why make this Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce recipe
- Protein-Rich: Each serving of Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce delivers a hefty dose of protein, perfect for muscle building and energy.
- Quick Prep: With minimal preparation time, this recipe allows you to serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy options ready throughout the week.
- Low-Carb: The recipe is naturally lower in carbs, fitting well into low-carb or ketogenic lifestyles.
- Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable ingredients, this dish won’t break the bank, making it accessible for everyone.
"These meatballs were a hit with my family! Everyone loved the tzatziki sauce – it’s a game changer!"
How to make Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Making Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce is simple and enjoyable. You’ll only need basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl and a baking sheet, which makes the process straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time! If you love fast protein breakfasts, try our Cottage Cheese Pancakes.
Ingredients
For these flavorful Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the tzatziki sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt to taste
These ingredients work together beautifully, creating a dish that’s satisfying and healthy. You can customize some components; for example, substitute Greek yogurt with any other non-dairy yogurt for a dairy-free option in the tzatziki sauce.
Directions
- Preheat: the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix: in a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into meatballs.
- Cook/Bake: place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- Finish: for the tzatziki sauce, mix together yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and salt in a bowl.
Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side for a fulfilling meal.
How to serve Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Serve your Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce on a platter garnished with extra parsley or dill for an appealing presentation. Pair them with warm pita bread, a fresh Greek salad, or over quinoa for a filling meal. To elevate the dish further, you may add olives or serve it as a filling in a wrap. This dish is not only nutritious but also visually enchanting, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
How to store
Store any leftover Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground chicken to keep your meatballs lower in fat and calories.
- Avoid Dry Meatballs: Ensure you don’t overbake the meatballs to keep them juicy and moist.
- Prep Ahead: Make a large batch ahead of time; they freeze well for easy future meals.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach into the meat mixture for added nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the seasoning with a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Different Proteins: Substitute ground turkey or beef for chicken to switch up flavors while maintaining similar cooking times.
FAQs
Can I meal prep Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce?
Yes, Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce keeps well for 3-4 days in the fridge; store in an airtight container.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freeze portions for up to a month; thaw overnight, then reheat gently.
What substitutions work best?
You can swap ground chicken for turkey or pork; adjust seasoning to taste and texture for your preference.
For nutrition insights, visit Healthline.
Enjoy these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce as a flavorful meal option. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish will be a delightful addition to your table. We’d love to hear your thoughts – feel free to leave a comment or share your experience!
Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken Use lean ground chicken for lower fat
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley For garnish
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 piece egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- to taste Salt and pepper
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cucumber, grated and squeezed Remove excess moisture
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- to taste Salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into meatballs.
Cooking
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Making the Sauce
- For the tzatziki sauce, mix together yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and salt in a bowl.
Serving
- Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.