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### Instructions:
#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken Meatballs**:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the **ground chicken**, **chopped onion**, **minced garlic**, **fresh parsley**, **oregano**, **cumin**, **coriander**, and **lemon zest**.
– Add the **egg**, **breadcrumbs**, and a pinch of **salt and pepper**. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined. It’s best to use your hands for this step, but be careful not to overmix.
– Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about **1 to 1.5 inches** in diameter. You should get about **20-24 meatballs**, depending on the size.
#### 2. **Cook the Meatballs**:
– Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of **olive oil**. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches (do not overcrowd the pan). Cook for **3-4 minutes** on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, about **10-12 minutes total**. Make sure the internal temperature reaches **165°F**.
– Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
#### 3. **Make the Tzatziki Sauce**:
– While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a small bowl, combine the **Greek yogurt**, **grated cucumber**, **minced garlic**, **fresh dill**, **lemon juice**, and **olive oil**.
– Mix well, then taste and adjust seasoning with **salt**, **pepper**, and **fresh mint** if desired. For a smoother texture, you can blend the sauce for a couple of seconds with an immersion blender or regular blender.
– Let the tzatziki chill in the fridge for at least **15 minutes** before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
#### 4. **Serve**:
– Once the meatballs are cooked and the tzatziki is ready, serve the meatballs with a generous drizzle of tzatziki sauce on top.
– For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or mint, and serve with your favorite sides such as **Greek salad**, **quinoa**, or **pita bread**.
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### Tips for the Perfect Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki
– **Moisture Control**: If you find that your meatballs are too wet or crumbly, try adding a bit more breadcrumbs to the mixture to help bind everything together.
– **Crispy Meatballs**: For an extra crispy exterior, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at **375°F** for about **15-20 minutes** after browning them in the skillet. This ensures they cook through without getting too greasy.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the meatballs and tzatziki ahead of time. The meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for **2-3 days**, and the tzatziki will stay fresh for up to **4 days**. Both can also be frozen for longer storage.
– **Use Fresh Herbs**: While dried herbs will work in a pinch, fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, and mint will provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the meatballs and tzatziki.
– **Add a Kick**: If you enjoy a little spice, feel free to add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** or a few dashes of **hot sauce** to the meatball mixture or the tzatziki sauce.
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### Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion
These **Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki** are not just delicious but also versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer for a party or a light yet satisfying main course for a healthy weeknight meal. The combination of savory meatballs with creamy, refreshing tzatziki offers a well-rounded dish that will please both kids and adults alike.
This meal is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to introduce Mediterranean flavors into your cooking repertoire. The fresh ingredients, vibrant herbs, and bold seasonings make this dish something you’ll want to serve over and over again.
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### Conclusion: A Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Feast
**Greek Chicken Meatballs with Homemade Tzatziki** is a must-try recipe that brings the fresh and savory flavors of Greece into your kitchen. With juicy, flavorful meatballs made from lean chicken and a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce, this dish is a healthy and indulgent option for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Simple, flavorful, and satisfying—this dish is a perfect way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean.
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