Juicy pan-seared chicken meatballs bursting with fresh herbs and creamy feta cheese, finished in a bright and refreshing mint yogurt sauce. This Mediterranean-inspired dish brings together the richness of ground chicken with the lightness of herbs and tangy dairy, resulting in a main course that’s flavorful, comforting, and remarkably fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of savory and fresh. The meatballs are tender and full of flavor, thanks to the combination of feta, garlic, and aromatic herbs. The mint yogurt sauce adds a creamy, zesty contrast that complements the richness of the meatballs without overpowering them. It’s easy to prepare, suitable for weeknight dinners, and elegant enough to serve guests. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides from grains to flatbreads.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

For the Mint Yogurt Sauce:
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, feta, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Form into 1.5-inch meatballs using your hands or a scoop.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear meatballs on all sides until golden and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, whisk together Greek yogurt, chicken broth, lemon juice, olive oil, and mint. Heat gently over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth and warmed through. Avoid boiling.
5. Return the meatballs to the skillet and stir gently to coat with sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Garnish with additional mint and crumbled feta if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use turkey instead of chicken: Ground turkey works equally well and adds a slightly different flavor.
• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or finely chopped chili to the meatball mixture.
• Add vegetables: Serve with sautéed zucchini, grilled eggplant, or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.
• Swap herbs: Try dill or cilantro in place of mint for a different herbal note.
• Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt and omit feta, or use a vegan feta alternative.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store cooled meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
• Freezing: Meatballs can be frozen (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before adding to freshly prepared sauce.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of searing them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through. Then finish them in the yogurt sauce on the stovetop.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with rice, couscous, quinoa, or flatbread. A side salad or roasted vegetables also make excellent companions.

Is it necessary to use fresh mint?

Fresh mint provides the best flavor, but you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon dried mint in a pinch. The result may be slightly less vibrant.

Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken?

Yes, ground beef or lamb can be used, though they will make a richer, more robust version of the dish.

How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Do not overmix the meatball mixture, and make sure to include the egg and breadcrumbs as binders. Letting the mixture rest in the fridge before shaping can also help.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and store them separately. Reheat gently before serving.

Is the yogurt sauce supposed to be hot or cold?

The sauce should be gently warmed through on the stovetop, not boiling, to maintain its creamy texture.

What type of Greek yogurt works best?

Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer and creamier sauce. Low-fat versions can work but may be less stable when heated.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in the meatball mixture.

How do I adjust this recipe for kids?

Reduce or omit the mint and feta if preferred, and avoid adding any extra spice.

Conclusion

Herbed Chicken Meatballs with Feta & Mint Yogurt Sauce offer a vibrant twist on classic comfort food. Packed with fresh herbs and Mediterranean flavors, this dish is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether served with grains, vegetables, or flatbread, these meatballs bring a welcome variety to the dinner table and are sure to become a favorite in any household.

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