Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce
There’s something timeless about Mediterranean cooking — clean flavors, bright herbs, and the perfect harmony of protein and freshness. This Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce recipe captures that essence beautifully.
The tender, oven-baked meatballs burst with flavor from oregano, garlic, and parsley, while the tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing contrast made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and lemon. Whether you’re on a high-protein diet, looking for a meal-prep option, or just craving something delicious and healthy, this dish delivers on every front.
It’s light, low-carb, and nutrient-packed — ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer.
🧂 Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs
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1 lb (450g) ground chicken
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for texture and binding)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 egg, lightly beaten
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: a drizzle of olive oil for baking
For the Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
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1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
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1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: fresh dill or mint, finely chopped for extra freshness
🍋 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly distributed — avoid overmixing to keep your meatballs tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Scoop out portions and roll them into evenly sized balls, about 1½ inches in diameter. Place them on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20–25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even browning.
You’ll know they’re done when golden on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the meatballs bake, make the sauce:
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well. Add dill or mint if desired. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the warm meatballs on a plate or in a bowl with a generous scoop of tzatziki. Add cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, or a fresh Greek salad on the side.
These meatballs also pair beautifully with pita bread, rice, or quinoa.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Low-carb option: Serve on a bed of greens with extra tzatziki.
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Meal prep: Store in containers for up to 4 days. Reheat meatballs and serve with chilled sauce.
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Party platter: Serve with skewers and a dipping bowl of tzatziki — they’ll vanish fast!
💪 Nutrition Highlights (per serving)
Estimated values based on 4 servings:
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Calories: ~290
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Protein: 30g
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Fat: 15g
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Carbohydrates: 6g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
These stats make it a balanced, protein-rich meal ideal for muscle gain, weight management, or a clean-eating plan.
🧠 Cooking Tips
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Drain your cucumber well for a thicker tzatziki.
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Use ground turkey or lean beef as alternatives.
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Add a touch of feta to the meatball mixture for a tangy twist.
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For crispier edges, finish meatballs in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes after baking.
🇬🇷 The Mediterranean Secret
Greek cuisine thrives on simplicity and freshness. Ingredients like lemon, olive oil, herbs, and yogurt form the foundation of countless dishes. This recipe embodies that tradition — proof that healthy food can also be rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
💬 Related Questions
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Can I air-fry the chicken meatballs instead of baking them?
→ Yes! Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway. -
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in tzatziki?
→ Use plain yogurt (strained), sour cream, or even labneh. -
How do I keep chicken meatballs moist?
→ Don’t overcook them, and keep the mixture slightly wet — the egg and breadcrumbs help retain moisture. -
Can I freeze the meatballs?
→ Absolutely. Freeze cooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a bag or container. Reheat in the oven or microwave. -
What side dishes go best with Greek chicken meatballs?
→ Try lemon rice, roasted potatoes, tabbouleh, or a Greek salad.
🌟 Final Thoughts
These Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. The herbs, lemon, and yogurt bring a burst of freshness to every bite, while the chicken adds a hearty, satisfying texture.
Perfect for weight management, busy weeknights, or even entertaining guests — this dish offers everything: taste, nutrition, and simplicity.
