Name: Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 large egg; 1 tsp dried oregano; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

Prepare to fall in love with the irresistible flavors of Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs! This dish brings together juicy ground chicken, tangy feta, zesty lemon, and crunchy pine nuts for a result that’s bright, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, an appetizer for a party, or meal-prepping for the week, Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs deliver a delightful burst of sunshine and heart-healthy ingredients in every bite.

Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are created from a handful of simple but utterly essential ingredients. Each component packs its own punch—flavor, texture, or visual appeal—and when they come together, it’s pure magic. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Ground chicken: Lean and mild, chicken provides the perfect canvas for bold Mediterranean flavors.
Breadcrumbs: These keep the meatballs tender, light, and help them hold their shape beautifully.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal lift and a burst of color to every bite.
Garlic cloves, minced: For a savory depth that’s classic to Mediterranean cooking—don’t skip the garlic!
Feta cheese, crumbled: Salty and tangy, feta melts into little pockets of creamy deliciousness.
Large egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs stay moist and cohesive as they bake.
Dried oregano: One of those unmistakable Mediterranean herbs, it fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aroma.
Zest of 1 lemon: This is the secret to a bright, zippy flavor—use a microplane for the best results.
Pine nuts, toasted: Add crunch and a touch of buttery richness (toasting brings out their best flavor).
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for dialing up all the other flavors—taste as you mix!

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first: get your oven nice and hot at 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little step keeps your Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze—trust me, you’ll appreciate it later.

Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, crumbled feta, egg, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Don’t be shy about using your hands—mixing by hand ensures everything gets evenly incorporated! You’re aiming for a mixture that’s cohesive and holds together, but not overworked so the meatballs stay tender.

Step 3: Fold in Pine Nuts

Now stir in those toasted pine nuts. Toasting not only brings out their nutty richness, but also gives your Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs a lovely bit of crunch and visual appeal. Gently fold them in to avoid crushing them and keep those pops of flavor intact.

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Next, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Rolling them between damp hands helps prevent sticking. Place each meatball onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between so they brown up nicely and cook evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your tray into the oven and bake the meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. They should smell absolutely amazing—crispy on the edges and deliciously juicy inside. Let them cool for a minute or two (if you can resist!) before serving.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs

Garnishes

A finishing touch makes all the difference. Sprinkle your Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs with extra fresh parsley, a crumble of feta, or even a grating of fresh lemon zest before serving. For a creamy contrast, try a swirl of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of cool tzatziki on the side.

Side Dishes

Serve these meatballs alongside a gorgeous Greek salad, a bed of herbed couscous, or fluffy pita bread for a true Mediterranean feast. They also play well with roasted vegetables, lemony quinoa, or even as a hearty topping for a bowl of orzo or rice.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative! Tuck Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs into warm pita pockets with crunchy cucumbers and tomatoes for handheld wraps, or skewer them with roasted veggies for a playful platter. They also shine as party-worthy appetizers with toothpicks and a tangy dipping sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store your cooled Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They will stay juicy and flavorful, ready to toss into salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.

Freezing

Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs freeze beautifully! Once cooled, arrange them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you need a quick meal, you’ve got homemade goodness ready to go.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the meatballs in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave them in short bursts—just until they’re warmed through. Covering them loosely helps retain their moisture and keeps them tasting freshly made.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground chicken?

Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe, bringing similar lean protein and mild flavor while keeping the overall texture and taste of the Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs intact.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version?

Swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed gluten-free crackers, or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free adaptation. The key is to use something that will bind the mixture and keep the meatballs moist.

Are pine nuts necessary?

While pine nuts add amazing flavor and crunch, you can certainly omit them if there’s an allergy or you don’t have any on hand. Chopped toasted almonds or pistachios make suitable alternatives, or just leave the nuts out for a simpler version.

Can I cook these on the stovetop instead of baking?

Absolutely! To pan-sear, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat, add the shaped meatballs, and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). It’s a wonderful way to get a crispier exterior.

How do I keep the meatballs from drying out?

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture and be sure not to overbake them. The feta, egg, and breadcrumbs help lock in moisture, and a little bit of olive oil brushed on top before baking can add extra juiciness if you wish.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about these Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs that brings a table to life—vibrant flavors, beautiful colors, and genuine comfort in every bite. They might just become your new go-to for all kinds of meals! Give this recipe a try and see how these little bites of sunshine can brighten up your dinner routine.

Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Makes about 20 meatballs 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful twist on a classic dish, packed with herbs, cheese, and toasted pine nuts for added crunch. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests!

Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, feta cheese, egg, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Add pine nuts: Gently fold in the toasted pine nuts.
Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
Bake: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Notes

You can serve these meatballs with tzatziki sauce and a side salad for a complete meal.
Feel free to customize the herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean