Name: Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground chicken 99/1; 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs (28g); 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp. dried oregano; 1/2 tsp. ground cumin; 1/2 tsp. salt; 1/4 tsp. black pepper; 1 cup 2% plain Greek yogurt (224g); 1/2 cup cucumber, finely grated and drained (84g); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 Tbsp. lemon juice; 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, finely chopped or 1 tsp. dried dill; 1 Tbsp. olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 cups cucumber, chopped (200g); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced lengthwise (80g); 1/2 cup fat-free feta cheese (56g); 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil; 1 Tbsp. lemon juice; 1/2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar; Pinch of salt; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 77 reviews

If you are craving a meal that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness, you have to try this Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe. Juicy chicken meatballs seasoned with fragrant herbs mingle beautifully with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce and a crisp Greek salad, all nestled atop a bed of fluffy brown rice and crunchy romaine. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that’s not only satisfying but also ideal for meal prepping or a lovely family dinner. Trust me, once you taste this Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

In a white bowl, there are seven different ingredients laid out side by side before mixing. At the bottom, there is light pink ground meat with a soft, stringy texture. On top of the meat, slightly to the right side, there is a small pile of finely chopped yellow garlic. Next to the garlic, on the right edge, is a light brown fine powder. Above it, there is a small, bright white pile of salt. To the left of the salt, there is a dark green finely chopped herb like parsley. To the left of the parsley, there is a sprinkling of dried green oregano leaves. Below the oregano and left from the garlic, there is a big pile of yellowish fine crumbs, possibly breadcrumbs. Above the breadcrumbs, on the left edge, there are small pieces of diced purple onion. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that each bring their unique contribution to the table. From the savory and tender chicken meatballs to the refreshing Greek salad and creamy tzatziki, every component adds color, flavor, or texture for a delightful eating experience.

1 lb. ground chicken 99/1: The lean protein star that keeps the meatballs juicy and healthy.
1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs 28g: Helps bind the meatballs and adds a subtle texture.
1/4 cup parsley finely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the meatballs.
1/4 cup onion finely chopped: Gives a gentle sweetness and moisture.
2 cloves garlic minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth to the meatballs and tzatziki.
1 tsp. dried oregano: Brings that quintessential Mediterranean flavor we all love.
1/2 tsp. ground cumin: Adds a subtle earthiness to enhance the meatballs’ complexity.
1/2 tsp. salt: The essential seasoning that ties everything together.
1/4 tsp. black pepper: A little kick to balance and elevate flavors.
1 cup 2% plain Greek yogurt 224g: The creamy base for the tzatziki sauce, providing tang and richness.
1/2 cup cucumber finely grated and drained, 84g: Keeps the tzatziki cool and refreshing without watering it down.
2 Tbsp. lemon juice: Adds bright acidity both to tzatziki and salad dressing.
2 Tbsp. fresh dill, finely chopped: The fresh herb lift that makes tzatziki irresistible.
1 Tbsp. olive oil: Enhances richness in the sauce and salad dressing.
1 1/2 cups cucumber chopped, 200g: Crunchy and hydrating for the Greek salad.
1 cup cherry tomatoes cut in half: Adds vibrant color and juicy sweetness.
1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced: Sharpness and a pop of purple to balance the salad.
1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives sliced lengthwise, 80g: Offers briny richness to the salad’s complexity.
1/2 cup fat-free feta cheese 56g: Creamy and tangy topping that’s classic to any Greek-inspired dish.
1/2 Tbsp. olive oil: Lightly coats the salad for a silky finish.
1/2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar: Introduces a mellow sweetness and depth to the salad dressing.
Pinch of salt: Just enough seasoning to bring out each ingredient’s flavor.
2 cups cooked brown rice: A hearty, nutty base that makes the bowl wholesome.
4 cups romaine lettuce chopped: Adds freshness and crunch beneath the other vibrant layers.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by mixing ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until everything is gently but thoroughly combined. Shape this mixture into 12 evenly sized meatballs, around 42 grams each to ensure they cook perfectly. You have some flexibility with cooking methods here: air fry at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes for a healthier touch, sear them in olive oil on the stove until golden and cooked through in about 10 minutes, or bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes if you prefer a hands-off approach. Whichever method you choose, aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure juicy, safe-to-eat meatballs.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

This sauce is what takes the dish to the next level. Mix Greek yogurt, finely grated cucumber (drained well to avoid excess moisture), minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving. The cool, creamy, and herbaceous notes of tzatziki contrast so beautifully with the warm, savory meatballs.

Step 3: Toss the Greek Salad

In a separate bowl, combine chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, kalamata olives, and fat-free feta cheese. Dress this colorful salad with olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt, mixing until the flavors meld together nicely. Chill this as well to let the vibrant ingredients marry and refresh your palate when paired with the meatballs.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

To bring everything together, layer chopped romaine lettuce and cooked brown rice at the base of each bowl. Add the perfectly cooked chicken meatballs on top, spoon a generous dollop of chilled tzatziki sauce, and finish with a hearty scoop of Greek salad. The combination of warm and cold, soft and crunchy, savory and tangy makes every bite exciting.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe

A bowl contains a fresh salad with four distinct layers divided into sections: dark purple sliced olives on the top left, bright red halved cherry tomatoes on the top right, thin light purple onion rings overlapping the bottom right, and thinly sliced green cucumber rounds on the bottom left. In the center, a generous pile of white crumbly feta cheese rests on top, slightly spilling onto the other ingredients. The bowl is white with a thin blue rim and sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe look and taste even more special, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or dill on top. A little extra cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil can also enhance both presentation and flavor, giving your bowls a restaurant-quality finish.

Side Dishes

While these bowls are quite filling on their own, pairing them with warm pita bread or a small serving of roasted vegetables can round out the meal beautifully. Consider grilled asparagus or lemon-butter green beans for a seasonal, fresh addition that complements the earthy herbs and bright salad.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re preparing the Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe for a gathering, serve the components buffet style with individual bowls for assembly. You might also layer everything into mason jars for a fun portable lunch option, or arrange the ingredients artistically on a large platter for a vibrant shared meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the meatballs, salad, tzatziki, rice, and lettuce separately if possible to maintain texture and freshness. This way, you can enjoy the meal later without anything becoming soggy or wilted.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze them separately from the tzatziki and salad, which do not freeze well. When ready to eat, thaw meatballs overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crisp exterior, or gently in a skillet over medium heat. Warm the rice slightly in the microwave or on the stove. Keep the salad and tzatziki cold, adding them fresh to the warmed bowl just before eating to preserve their bright flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works similarly well and also creates juicy meatballs when seasoned properly. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the Greek yogurt in the tzatziki with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond-based yogurt. Just select an unsweetened and plain variety to keep that authentic tangy flavor.

How should I store the tzatziki sauce if making ahead?

Tzatziki is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and served within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Stir it well before serving, as the ingredients may settle or separate slightly.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying or air frying?

Yes, baking is a simple and hands-off cooking method. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through, turning once halfway for even browning.

What can I use instead of brown rice?

If you prefer, quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives that work wonderfully as the base of these Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe. Each offers a slightly different texture but keeps the meal wholesome.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up the Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Bowls Recipe is such a joyful experience because of the fresh flavors, nutritious balance, and colorful presentation. Whether for a busy weeknight, meal prep, or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and satisfy. Give it a go – your taste buds will thank you for bringing the Mediterranean sunshine to your table!