Can I substitute turkey for chicken mince?

Yes! Ground turkey works just as well. It may be a bit leaner, so don’t skip the zucchini—it keeps the texture moist.

How do I store leftovers?

Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. They’re also amazing cold over a salad!

Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze them raw or cooked. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking or reheating.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

No sweat! Use 1 tsp each of dried dill, mint, and parsley instead. But if you can swing the fresh ones—they do make a difference.

Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs Ready in 30 Mins!

Description

These Herby Greek Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and full of fresh Mediterranean herbs. Paired with lemony giant couscous and a crisp cucumber salad, it’s a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

500g (1 lb) chicken mince
100g (3.5 oz) feta, crumbled
1 large zucchini, grated
Zest of 1 large lemon
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup breadcrumbs
½ tsp salt
20g (a handful) fresh herbs: dill, mint, parsley – chopped
Pinch of black pepper
Olive oil, for brushing or spritzing

For the Giant Couscous:

1 cup giant couscous
1½ cups water
Big pinch of salt
1 tsp olive oil
5g (1 Tbsp) chopped dill
Juice of ½ lemon (about 20 ml)

For the Cucumber Salad:

1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
Juice of ½ lemon (about 20 ml)
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chicken mince, crumbled feta, grated zucchini, lemon zest, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. Mix until just combined.
Form the Meatballs: Roll into 12 golf ball-sized meatballs. Lightly brush or spritz with olive oil.
Cook the Meatballs:
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 205°C (400°F) and cook for 11 minutes near the heating element.
- Oven: Preheat to 220°C (425°F) and bake on a tray in the top third of the oven for 12–15 minutes.
Prepare the Couscous: Heat olive oil in a pan over high heat. Lightly toast couscous for 1–2 minutes. Add water and salt, cook for 10–12 minutes until al dente. Drain excess water, stir in chopped dill, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season to taste.
Make the Salad: Toss sliced cucumber and red onion with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit to lightly pickle.
Assemble: Plate couscous, top with meatballs, and add cucumber salad. Drizzle with olive oil and serve warm.

Notes

You can prep the meatballs ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken mince
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Main course
Method: Air Fryer / Oven
Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 620 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg