Feta-Stuffed Greek Chicken Meatballs with Roasted Garlic Tzatziki
If you’re craving something comforting yet fresh, hearty but light, and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, this Feta-Stuffed Greek Chicken Meatballs with Roasted Garlic Tzatziki recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinner rotation needs. With tender, herb-loaded chicken meatballs oozing with warm, melty feta and paired with a creamy, garlicky tzatziki sauce that sings with brightness, every bite is pure bliss.
Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests, meal prep like a pro, or bring something crowd-pleasing to your next potluck, these Greek-inspired meatballs check all the boxes. They’re gluten-optional, naturally protein-rich, and easy to customize to fit your preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These aren’t your average meatballs. They’re lighter thanks to the use of lean ground chicken, yet packed with Mediterranean flavor from ingredients like dill, oregano, parsley, lemon zest, and tangy feta cheese. Each bite delivers a savory surprise with creamy feta in the center — it’s an elevated twist on a classic.
And don’t even get us started on the roasted garlic tzatziki. Roasting the garlic takes the sharp edge off and infuses the yogurt with deep, mellow, caramelized flavor. It’s the perfect cooling dip to complement the herbaceous meatballs.
This recipe is ideal for:
Healthy weeknight dinners
Entertaining guests
Appetizer platters
Meal prepping for the week
Low-carb or Mediterranean-style diets
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chicken Meatballs
1 lb ground chicken
3 oz feta cheese, cubed
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
⅓ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
1 egg, lightly beaten
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Roasted Garlic Tzatziki
1 whole head of garlic
1 cup Greek yogurt
½ cucumber, grated and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Garlic
Roasting garlic transforms its sharpness into rich, nutty sweetness.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut off the top of the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35 minutes.
Let cool slightly, then squeeze out the softened cloves and mash them into a paste.
2. Make the Roasted Garlic Tzatziki
Grate the cucumber and press out as much moisture as possible using a cheesecloth or paper towels.
Mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, mashed roasted garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle with olive oil and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
3. Prepare the Chicken Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, red onion, minced garlic, dill, parsley, oregano, lemon zest and juice, egg, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently but thoroughly to combine.
4. Stuff and Shape the Meatballs
Take about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm.
Place a cube of feta in the center and wrap the meat around it to form a ball.
Repeat until all meatballs are formed.
5. Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook the meatballs in batches for 10–12 minutes, turning often, until browned on all sides and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Drain on paper towels before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your golden meatballs with a generous side of roasted garlic tzatziki. Garnish with extra dill, a drizzle of olive oil, and serve with warm pita, herby rice, or a crisp Greek salad.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Skillet (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
Mixing bowls
Cheese grater
Knife and cutting board
Garlic press (optional)
Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigeration:
Store meatballs and tzatziki separately in airtight containers.
Meatballs: Up to 4 days
Tzatziki: Best used within 3–4 days
Freezing:
Meatballs (uncooked or cooked) freeze well.
Freeze cooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Note: Tzatziki does not freeze well due to the yogurt and cucumber content.
Recipe Tips and Shortcuts
Shortcut Tzatziki: Use pre-minced roasted garlic (available at many grocery stores) if you’re short on time.
Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Cheese Swap: Try cubes of goat cheese or mozzarella for a different twist.
Add Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Bake Instead: Want a hands-off method? Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through.
What to Serve With Feta-Stuffed Greek Chicken Meatballs
Pairing these meatballs is a breeze thanks to their versatility.
Food Pairings:
Greek Salad – Tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onion, and a splash of olive oil.
Lemon Rice – Herbaceous and zesty, perfect for soaking up tzatziki.
Pita Bread – Toasted or warm, ideal for scooping.
Quinoa Tabouleh – Adds a fresh grain element with tons of greens.
Drink Pairings:
White Wine – Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Greek Assyrtiko.
Sparkling Water – With lemon or cucumber for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option.
Light Beer – A lager or pilsner balances the savory feta and herbs beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well. Opt for a slightly higher fat content (like 93%) for juicy meatballs.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Swap the feta for a dairy-free cheese and use a plant-based yogurt for the tzatziki.
How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is well-combined and not too wet. The egg and breadcrumbs help bind everything together. Chilling the mixture for 15–20 minutes before shaping can also help.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The flavors are mild but tasty. You can reduce the garlic slightly and skip the herbs if your kids are sensitive to strong tastes.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action
This Feta-Stuffed Greek Chicken Meatballs with Roasted Garlic Tzatziki recipe is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the sunny, herb-rich cuisine of the Mediterranean straight to your table. With a bit of prep and a lot of heart, you’ll have a meal that’s healthy, satisfying, and worthy of repeat appearances.
If you loved this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with your friends, pin it for later, and be sure to subscribe to the blog for more Mediterranean-inspired meals that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Let’s bring good food — and good vibes — into more kitchens.