Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic meatballs, featuring lean ground chicken combined with savory feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Baked to perfection, they offer a juicy texture with a burst of Mediterranean flavors, perfect served with pita, rice, or a fresh Greek salad.
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
For Garnish
- Fresh mint or parsley – Adds freshness and color
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the meatballs evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the meatballs from 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.
- Combine Thoroughly: Mix all the ingredients well until everything is evenly incorporated, ensuring each meatball will have a balanced flavor and texture.
- Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, golf ball-sized meatballs using your hands, then place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the meatballs with fresh mint or parsley to add a burst of freshness and appealing color.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the meatballs with pita bread, rice, or a Greek salad for a complete and delicious Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean beef if preferred.
- If panko breadcrumbs are not available, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though the texture may be slightly different.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil tend to have richer flavor; if using dry, consider rehydrating before chopping.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Ensure meatballs are cooked through by checking with a meat thermometer for safety.
