Mediterranean Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs
These baked chicken meatballs are a fusion of Mediterranean and Thai flavors, combining fresh herbs, spices, and optional cheeses for extra richness. They’re easy to make, bake quickly in the oven, and are perfect served with sweet chili sauce, tzatziki, or alongside rice, noodles, or pita. This recipe is flexible, letting you adjust it for Thai, Mediterranean, or fusion flavors depending on your preference.
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
1 lb ground chicken
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or ¼ cup whole wheat panko)
1 large egg
2 green onions, finely minced
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp fresh garlic, grated or 2 cloves, minced
½ lime, zested and/or juiced
1 tbsp lemongrass, grated
1 tbsp red curry paste (optional, for Thai flavor)
1 tbsp fish sauce (optional, for Thai flavor)
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional, Mediterranean twist)
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, Mediterranean twist)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tsp kosher salt (or ½ tsp each salt and black pepper)
Black pepper, to taste
For Serving/Glazing (Optional)
¼ cup sweet chili sauce (for glazing or dipping)
Tzatziki sauce (for Mediterranean serving)
Rice, noodles, or pita bread (as desired)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, cilantro, ginger, garlic, lime zest/juice, lemongrass, and optional Thai or Mediterranean ingredients (red curry paste, fish sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, Parmesan, parsley).
Season with salt and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
Form Meatballs
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1–1.5 inch meatballs. Place on prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Bake
Bake for 18–20 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Optional Glazing
Brush with sweet chili sauce during the last 2–3 minutes of baking for a sticky glaze, or serve it on the side for dipping.
Serve
Serve warm with tzatziki for a Mediterranean touch, or alongside rice, noodles, or pita bread. Garnish with extra parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips & Variations
Cheese Options: Use feta for a tangy Mediterranean twist, Parmesan for extra umami, or skip cheese entirely for a lighter version.
Thai Flavor Boost: Add extra red curry paste, fish sauce, or a few chili flakes for more authentic Thai heat.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add Mediterranean depth, but you can substitute roasted red peppers or olives if preferred.
Baking vs. Pan-Frying: Baking is healthier and convenient, but you can pan-fry the meatballs in a bit of olive oil for a crispier exterior.
Glazing & Serving:
Sweet chili sauce works for Thai-style serving.
Tzatziki or a yogurt-based sauce works for Mediterranean-style serving.
You can serve over rice, noodles, or pita for a complete meal.
Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs ahead of time, freeze them uncooked, and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Herb Variations: Cilantro, parsley, or mint can be adjusted depending on flavor preference.
Mix-ins: Finely chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots can be added to the meat mixture for extra nutrition and moisture.
Q&A
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can prepare and shape the meatballs in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze uncooked for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely. Ground turkey is a lean alternative, and ground beef works well for a richer flavor, though cooking time may vary slightly.
Q: How can I make these meatballs spicier?
A: Add extra red curry paste, a pinch of chili flakes, or finely minced fresh chili to the meat mixture.
Q: Can I skip the cheese?
A: Yes. Cheese is optional and adds richness, but the meatballs will still be flavorful without it.
Q: What are good serving options?
A: Serve with sweet chili sauce for a Thai twist, or tzatziki for a Mediterranean style. Pair with rice, noodles, or pita for a complete meal.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx. 4–5 meatballs)
Calories: ~270
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: ~520mg
(Values vary depending on cheese, sauces, and optional ingredients used.)
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are versatile, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and optional cheeses creates a fusion of Mediterranean and Thai flavors that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. Baking keeps them healthy and hands-off, while optional glazes like sweet chili sauce or tzatziki let you customize the dish to your taste.