Description
These baked Mediterranean chicken meatballs are incredibly tender, bursting with fresh herbs, tangy feta, and savory Kalamata olives. A perfect healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken (93% lean recommended)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil, plus more for greasing
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Ingredients: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Finely chop all vegetables and herbs, zest and juice lemon, and crumble feta cheese. Lightly grease a baking sheet.
- 2. Mix Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine ground chicken, panko, egg, red onion, garlic, parsley, mint, olives, feta, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined, do not overmix.
- 3. Form Meatballs: Using a 1.5-inch cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into uniform meatballs. Place them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- 4. Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) internally.
- 5. Serve: Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil, and serve immediately with your favorite Mediterranean sides and sauces.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins