Description
Full Recipe
Enjoy
Full Recipe
: https://recipesrealm.net/lemon-chicken-feta-meatballs…/
Just uploaded it onto the Ladle app!! I’m so excited to try this
Alex Young
Nina Alexandra Pridavka
Nick Flanjak
Toni Plemel
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, one egg, the zest and juice of one lemon, two minced garlic cloves, and a tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano. Season generously with salt and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined—overmixing will result in tough meatballs. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile meatballs can be the star of many meals. For a light dinner, serve them over a crisp Greek salad or a bed of lemon-herb orzo. They also make a fantastic appetizer with a side of tzatziki or a creamy lemon-dill sauce for dipping. For a heartier plate, pair them with roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini and a dollop of hummus. Leftovers are excellent cold in a pita wrap with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of olive oil.
How-to Summary
To make Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs, mix ground chicken with feta, breadcrumbs, egg, lemon zest/juice, garlic, and herbs. Form into balls and bake at 400°F for 18-22 minutes. Serve warm with your chosen sides for a flavorful, protein-packed meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely. Ground turkey is a perfect 1:1 substitute and will yield a similar texture and flavor profile.
How can I make these gluten-free? Simply replace the breadcrumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free panko, almond flour, or rolled oats pulsed into a coarse meal.
Can I prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can mix the ingredients and store the raw mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled meatballs in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or in the microwave until warm.
Can I freeze these meatballs? Yes, they freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling, freeze them in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven or sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the meatball ingredients, as this activates the proteins and leads to a dense, rubbery texture. Do not skip the lemon zest—it provides a potent, aromatic citrus flavor that the juice alone cannot. Ensure your feta is properly crumbled; large chunks can cause the meatballs to fall apart. Finally, do not overcrowd the baking sheet, as the meatballs need space for proper air circulation to brown evenly.
Conclusion
These Lemon Chicken Feta Meatballs are a simple yet impressive dish that combines bright, zesty flavors with savory, creamy feta. They are incredibly easy to prepare, adaptable to various dietary needs, and perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to entertaining guests. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a consistently delicious and crowd-pleasing meal. Enjoy the process and the fantastic results!
