Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a delicious and vibrant taste.
- Healthy and Lean: Made with ground chicken, these meatballs are a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, they are perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair with rice, salads, or pita bread to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper
- Squeeze of lemon (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with nonstick spray.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, sun-dried tomatoes, feta and parmesan cheeses, garlic, green onions, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form Meatballs: Using a small to medium cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 2-inch sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 18 meatballs.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the meatballs are lightly browned and cooked through.
- Serve: Optionally, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top and serve warm alongside a Mediterranean salad, brown rice, or with homemade tzatziki sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 6 servings (about 18 meatballs)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey, beef, or pork for the chicken if desired.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Omit the feta and parmesan cheeses or replace them with dairy-free alternatives.
- Herb Substitutions: Fresh mint, basil, dill, or oregano can be used in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- To Store: Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave or air fryer for quicker reheating.
- To Freeze: Once cooled, freeze meatballs in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs without eggs?
Yes, the egg acts as a binder, but you can omit it if necessary; the meatballs should still hold together well.
2. What can I serve with Mediterranean chicken meatballs?
They pair well with brown rice, salads, pita bread, or roasted vegetables.
3. Can I cook these meatballs on the stovetop?
Yes, pan-fry them in a skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, turning continuously until browned and cooked through, about 12 minutes.
4. Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, they store well and can be reheated for meals throughout the week.
5. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Can I add other vegetables to the meatball mixture?
Finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition.
7. Is it possible to grill these meatballs?
Yes, shape them into patties or use skewers for grilling to ensure they hold together.
8. What type of ground chicken is best for this recipe?
Ground chicken thigh meat is preferred for juiciness, but any ground chicken will work.
9. Can I use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes instead of those in oil?
Yes, but consider rehydrating them in hot water to add moisture.
10. How can I make these meatballs spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the mixture for heat.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a versatile and delicious addition to your meal rotation
