Feta-Stuffed Greek Chicken Meatballs with Roasted Garlic Tzatziki

Feta-Stuffed Greek Chicken Meatballs with Roasted Garlic Tzatziki

Introduction

These juicy Greek chicken meatballs are bursting with Mediterranean flavors—think oregano, lemon, and garlic. But the surprise star is a gooey, salty feta center in every bite. Paired with a creamy roasted garlic tzatziki, this dish is perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or healthy weeknight dinners. Serve them in pita, over rice, or with a simple cucumber-tomato salad.

⏱ Time Overview

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4 (makes about 16 meatballs)

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground chicken (or turkey)

1/4 cup red onion, finely grated

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)

1 tsp dried oregano

Zest of 1 lemon

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)

1 large egg

2 oz (about 1/3 cup) feta cheese, cut into 16 small cubes

For Roasted Garlic Tzatziki:

1 head of garlic

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/2 large cucumber, grated and drained

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp fresh dill (or mint)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Garlic (for Tzatziki)

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Slice the top off a head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil.

Roast for 30–35 minutes until soft and golden. Cool, then squeeze out the cloves.

Step 2: Make Roasted Garlic Tzatziki

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out water), lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, and 3–4 roasted garlic cloves (mashed).

Season with salt and pepper. Chill while prepping meatballs.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, onion, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, lemon zest, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and egg until combined.

Divide the mixture into 16 portions.

Flatten each portion, place a cube of feta in the center, and roll into a ball, sealing the cheese inside.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Oven Method:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

Air Fryer Method:

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Spray meatballs lightly with oil and cook in batches for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.

Serving Suggestions

• In warm pita with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki
• Over rice or couscous with a side salad
• As party appetizers with toothpicks and dipping sauce
• With grilled veggies or sweet potato wedges

Tips

• Keep hands wet when rolling meatballs to prevent sticking.
• Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Use turkey or lamb as a substitute for chicken if desired.
• Strain the cucumber well for a thick tzatziki.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
A: Yes, but roasting your own garlic gives it a deeper, sweeter flavor.

Q: Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead?
A: Absolutely. Use a bit of olive oil and cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning frequently.

Q: How do I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a dairy-free feta alternative and coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt.

Q: What other fillings can I use?
A: Try sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or a small cube of mozzarella for variation.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 4 meatballs + 2 tbsp tzatziki)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290
Protein	25g
Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	2g
Sodium	480mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.