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Juicy Chicken Feta Meatballs

juicy chicken feta meatballs - featured image

These juicy chicken feta meatballs are tender, flavorful, and packed with Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground chicken (lean to medium-fat)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (about 75 grams)
  • ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (35 grams), plain or Italian seasoned
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg, beaten, room temperature
  • ¼ cup onion, finely grated or minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil for brushing or drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your air fryer for 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, beaten egg, minced garlic, and grated onion. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Add breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Fold everything together carefully, ensuring the feta is evenly distributed but not crushed.
  4. Scoop about 2 tablespoons (around 30 grams) of the mixture and roll gently into balls. You should get about 18-20 meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet.
  5. Optionally, lightly brush each meatball with olive oil for a golden crust, especially if baking.
  6. Bake in the oven for 18-20 minutes until cooked through and golden on the outside. If using an air fryer, cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  7. Check for doneness: the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Cut into a meatball to ensure it’s no longer pink inside and juicy.
  8. Let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.

Notes

If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a splash of milk or an extra egg yolk. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender. Resting the meatballs after cooking improves juiciness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature. For a crispier finish, air frying is recommended.

Nutrition

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