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Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Juicy pan-seared chicken meatballs infused with lemon zest and fresh herbs, served in a lemon-butter sauce with a creamy garlic yogurt dip. Perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup grated onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint or parsley
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together all the meatball ingredients until just combined. Shape into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add lemon juice and chicken broth. Stir well to deglaze the pan.
  4. Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and sauce is slightly reduced.
  5. Meanwhile, combine all garlic yogurt sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Stir until creamy.
  6. Serve meatballs hot with garlic yogurt sauce on the side or spooned underneath. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey as a substitute for chicken if desired.
  • Make the yogurt sauce a day ahead for deeper flavor.
  • Serve with rice, couscous, or flatbread for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken meatballs, garlic yogurt sauce, lemon butter, Mediterranean, easy dinner