Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and healthy dish featuring lean ground chicken combined with flavorful ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. Baked to perfection, they offer a moist and savory bite that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken – Lean and protein-packed base for the meatballs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture while keeping it light and moist
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binder
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – Adds a creamy, salty texture
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion – Mild, sweet flavor
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a rich, tangy taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Enhances flavor and moisture
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Mediterranean herb for flavor
- ½ tsp garlic powder – Adds depth to seasoning
- ½ tsp dried dill – Fresh, herby note
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances flavors
- ¼ tsp black pepper – Mild kick
Garnish
- Fresh mint or parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot enough to cook the meatballs evenly and give them a nice golden color.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs, making sure they are evenly sized for uniform cooking. Place them spaced evenly on the lined baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through inside, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the meatballs with fresh mint or parsley for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve warm with pita bread, rice, or a Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground chicken to keep the meatballs moist yet healthy.
- Panko breadcrumbs help to keep the meatballs light and tender instead of dense.
- If you prefer, fresh herbs such as oregano or dill can be used in place of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Ensure meatballs are cooked thoroughly by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Meatballs can be made ahead and frozen before baking; simply bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes.
