Description
Mediterranean chicken meatballs bring a zesty journey through Greek and Turkish culinary traditions, blending aromatic herbs with lean protein. Savory spices and fresh ingredients create a delightful dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground chicken
- 1 egg
Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Herbs, Seasonings, and Additional Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil, chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 squeeze of lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta, grated parmesan, minced garlic, sliced green onions, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Use hands to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Gently shape the meat mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Aim to create around 18 consistent-sized portions for even cooking.
- Arrange meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow proper heat circulation.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the exterior turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating complete cooking.
- Optional: Finish the dish with a light squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to enhance the Mediterranean flavors and add a bright, citrusy note.
Notes
- Customize the protein by swapping ground chicken with turkey or lean beef for varied flavor profiles and dietary needs.
- replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain meatball texture.
- Meal prep friendly, these meatballs can be frozen uncooked or cooked for up to 3 months, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners or packed lunches.
- Add extra moisture by incorporating grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach into the meat mixture, boosting nutritional value and keeping meatballs tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg