Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Meatballs are bursting with vibrant flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. The smoky paprika and oregano elevate the taste, creating a savory, herb-infused meatball that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these meatballs are versatile and easy to make. With just a few ingredients and 30 minutes, you’ll have a healthy, flavorful dish that’s bound to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts (cut into pieces)

• 1 large egg

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves

• ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet. Set aside.

2. Prepare Chicken Mixture: Cut the chicken breasts into smaller pieces for easier processing. Add the chicken, egg, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, breadcrumbs, and seasonings into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until everything is well combined and smooth.

3. Form Meatballs: Divide the mixture evenly and roll each portion into a ball using your hands.

4. Bake: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

5. Cool and Serve: Let the meatballs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or main course!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 meatballs

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add more veggies: For added flavor and nutrition, you can incorporate grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach into the meatball mixture.

• Cheese option: Add ¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese to the mixture for a creamy, tangy twist that complements the Mediterranean flavors.

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to chicken and will work just as well in this recipe.

2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for longer storage—bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

3. Can I make these meatballs without a food processor?

If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop the chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil by hand, then mix everything together in a bowl.

4. How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The meatballs are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

5. Can I bake these meatballs in a different shape?

Yes, you can shape the mixture into mini patties or oval-shaped pieces if you prefer something other than traditional meatballs.

6. Can I add more sun-dried tomatoes?

Absolutely! If you love the flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, feel free to add more to the mixture to boost their flavor in the meatballs.

7. What can I serve these meatballs with?

These Mediterranean meatballs pair perfectly with a side of hummus, tzatziki sauce, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. You can also serve them over rice or with pita bread.

8. Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of seasoned ones?

Yes, you can use fresh breadcrumbs. Just make sure to add a pinch of extra seasoning (like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs) to compensate for the lack of seasoning in the breadcrumbs.

9. Can I freeze the cooked meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

10. How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

To make these meatballs gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour.

Conclusion

These Mediterranean Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Meatballs are packed with bold, fresh flavors that make them a satisfying and healthy option for any meal. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course, they’re sure to be a hit! Easy to prepare and full of delicious ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

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