Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs: A Flavorful Journey to the Sun-Drenched Coasts

Are you yearning for a taste of the Mediterranean, but short on time? Look no further! This trending "Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe" is your ticket to a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that brings the sun-drenched flavors of the coast right to your dinner table. Forget bland weeknight meals; these meatballs are bursting with aromatic herbs, tangy feta, and savory chicken, creating a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and guilt-free.

This recipe is taking the internet by storm, and for good reason! It perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its fresh ingredients, lean protein, and bold, zesty flavors. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these meatballs are surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Why You'll Fall in Love with These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs

What makes these meatballs so irresistible? It's the harmonious blend of classic Mediterranean ingredients. Ground chicken keeps them light, while fresh herbs like oregano and parsley infuse them with incredible aroma. The addition of crumbled feta cheese provides a delightful salty tang, and a hint of lemon brightens every bite. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a main course, or even meal-prepped for healthy lunches throughout the week!

Ready to embark on this flavor adventure? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

For the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken (preferably 93% lean)
½ cup finely chopped red onion
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional, but highly recommended!)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking

For Serving (Optional):

Pita bread or warm flatbread
Tzatziki sauce
Chopped cucumber and tomatoes for a simple salad
Cooked quinoa or rice

Instructions:

Part 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, red onion, parsley, mint (if using), minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix Gently: Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs. You should get about 20-24 meatballs. Here’s a look at the perfectly formed, pre-cooked Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs:

Part 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Sear Meatballs: Carefully place the meatballs in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in two batches.
Cook Through: Cook the meatballs for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. An instant-read thermometer should register 165°F (74°C) in the center of the meatballs. Here are the beautifully seared Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs, sizzling in the pan:

Serving Suggestions:

Transfer the cooked Mediterranean chicken meatballs to a serving platter. These versatile meatballs can be enjoyed in many ways:

Classic Style: Serve warm with fluffy pita bread, a dollop of cooling tzatziki sauce, and a fresh side salad of chopped cucumbers and tomatoes.
Hearty Meal: Pair with cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice for a more substantial dinner.
Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for an easy and impressive party bite.
Meal Prep: Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for quick and healthy lunches throughout the week.

Why These Meatballs Will Be Your New Go-To:

Healthy & Lean: Made with ground chicken, they’re a lighter alternative to traditional meatballs.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of herbs, feta, and lemon creates an incredibly vibrant taste.
Versatile: Perfect for various meals or occasions – from quick dinners to party appetizers.
Easy to Make: Simple steps mean even novice cooks can achieve delicious results.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook a batch and enjoy them throughout the week for effortless healthy eating.

Don't miss out on this trending recipe! Whip up a batch of these Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs tonight and bring a taste of the sunny Mediterranean to your table.