Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
- 3 tablespoons grated yellow onion
- 1 clove garlic, grated or minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 egg
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pound ground chicken (or ground turkey, 93/7 lean)
- 2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Spray the lined sheet lightly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except the ground chicken and feta cheese. Whisk these together thoroughly to incorporate the flavors. Then add the ground chicken and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. Use your hands to gently fold and combine the mixture, being careful not to over mix, which could make the meatballs tough.
- Form Meatballs: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking, then scoop out approximately a tablespoon-sized amount of the mixture. Roll each portion into a smooth, even ball.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet spaced evenly apart. Spray or brush the tops with olive oil to help with browning during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake the meatballs for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and serve hot. They pair wonderfully with tzatziki sauce and a side of your choice, such as a Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For best results, do not over mix the meat mixture; this helps keep the meatballs tender.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken if preferred.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for a brighter, fresher flavor.
- These meatballs can be prepared ahead and reheated; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with tzatziki or a yogurt-based dip to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek