Prepare to transform your dinner routine with these mouthwatering Chicken Spanakopita Meatballs that bring the vibrant flavors of Greece right to your kitchen! Imagine tender, juicy chicken meatballs packed with spinach, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply elevate your weeknight meal, these Mediterranean-inspired meatballs are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Using clean hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the meat mixture into uniform meatballs approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Ensure each meatball is compact and well-shaped to prevent crumbling during cooking.
- Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow even heat circulation and proper browning.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning the meatballs halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and thorough cooking.
- Check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture and flavor.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional crumbled feta, chopped fresh parsley, or a tzatziki sauce for added flavor and authenticity.
Tips
- Mix with Your Hands: For the most even distribution of ingredients, use your hands to mix the meatball mixture. This ensures all flavors are perfectly blended.
- Don't Overwork the Meat: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the meatballs tender and juicy. Overmixing can make them tough.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Space Matters: Leave enough space between meatballs on the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation and even browning.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the meatballs to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help retain moisture and make them more flavorful.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with tzatziki sauce, serve over rice, or stuff into pita bread for a versatile meal option.
- Make Ahead Tip: These meatballs can be prepared in advance and refrigerated or even frozen for quick future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
