Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

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Juicy, golden brown, and packed with herby Mediterranean flavor, these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are a fresh and vibrant take on dinner. Each bite combines ground chicken with garlic, lemon zest, and parsley, delivering a light yet savory profile that pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy tang of homemade tzatziki.

Perfect for a weeknight meal or party platter, these meatballs shine alongside warm pita, crisp cucumbers, or a grain bowl. They’re also gluten-free and easy to make ahead. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this recipe brings Greek island vibes straight to your table.

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What Kind of Ground Chicken Should I Use?

Look for ground chicken that includes both breast and thigh meat for the best texture and flavor. All-white meat can be too lean and may dry out during baking or pan-frying. If you’re shopping at a butcher or grinding it yourself, a mix with a bit of fat (about 93% lean) will yield the juiciest meatballs.

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Ingredients for the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Ground Chicken – The star of the dish, ground chicken is lean yet flavorful, and it soaks up all the Mediterranean herbs and seasonings beautifully.

Fresh Parsley – Adds a bright, herbaceous note to balance the richness of the chicken.

Dill – Classic in Greek cuisine, dill adds freshness and pairs perfectly with both the meatballs and the tzatziki.

Garlic – A must for depth and authentic flavor.

Lemon Zest – Brings a zippy, aromatic brightness that lifts the entire dish.

Red Onion – Finely grated or minced, it melts into the meat mixture and adds subtle sharpness.

Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender.

Egg – Essential for binding the ingredients together.

Salt & Pepper – Seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.

Olive Oil – For cooking and for that extra Mediterranean touch.

Greek Yogurt, Cucumber, Garlic, Lemon Juice (for Tzatziki) – These are the key players for the sauce that brings creamy coolness to the dish.

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How To Make the Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped parsley, chopped dill, garlic, lemon zest, red onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined – don’t overwork the meat or it may become tough.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Use a small scoop or your hands to form the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch balls. Set them on a parchment-lined tray or plate. You should get about 18 to 20 meatballs.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a nonstick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes total, or until golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F). Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs cook, make your sauce. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out the excess water using a clean kitchen towel. In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, a pinch of salt, and a small drizzle of olive oil. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the warm meatballs on a platter with a generous side of tzatziki sauce. Garnish with extra dill, lemon slices, and fresh cucumber for a vibrant presentation. Serve with pita bread, over rice, or on top of a fresh salad.

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How to Serve and Store Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

These Greek Chicken Meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them fresh off the skillet with warm pita or flatbread, sliced cucumbers, and a heap of tzatziki for dipping. They’re also fantastic over a bed of lemony rice or tucked into a grain bowl with roasted vegetables and olives.

For a party or potluck, arrange them on skewers with cherry tomatoes and serve with tzatziki on the side for dipping. They hold their shape well and taste great at room temperature too.

To store, let the meatballs cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving. The tzatziki should be stored separately and will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of ground chicken?

You can substitute ground turkey for a similar texture and flavor, or even use ground lamb for a more traditional Greek twist.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep and shape the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate them uncooked. Just bring them to room temperature before cooking, or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Is the tzatziki sauce optional?

Technically yes, but it truly makes the dish. That cool, tangy yogurt sauce enhances the herbs in the meatballs and adds a creamy balance.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes until they’re fully cooked and lightly golden. It’s a great hands-off option.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

They can be! Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

What sides go well with Greek meatballs?

Try roasted lemon potatoes, orzo salad, tabbouleh, or a cucumber-tomato salad with feta. All complement the flavors beautifully.

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Want More Mediterranean Dinner Ideas?

If these Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce brought some sunny flavors to your table, here are a few more Mediterranean-inspired dishes worth trying next:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine – for when you want comforting pasta with a zesty twist.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta – ultra creamy and loaded with garlic goodness.
• Mediterranean White Beans & Greens – a hearty vegetarian option packed with herbs and texture.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes – rustic and satisfying for any night of the week.
• Greek Chicken Souvlaki – another great handheld favorite to pair with tzatziki.

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I’d love to hear how your meatballs turned out! Did you serve them with pita, rice, or something totally different? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and feel free to ask questions or share your twist on the sauce. Let’s keep the Mediterranean meal magic going!

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