Mediterranean Grilled Flatbread with Lemony Chicken Meatballs

Mediterranean Grilled Flatbread with Lemony Chicken Meatballs

This Mediterranean Grilled Flatbread with Lemony Chicken Meatballs is a vibrant fusion of bold flavors, fresh herbs, and juicy textures—perfect for a hearty lunch, dinner, or mezze platter. The zesty, herbed chicken meatballs are light yet satisfying, paired with a crispy, golden grilled flatbread and toppings like fresh vegetables, tangy yogurt sauce, and crumbled feta. It’s like a cross between a gyro, a pizza, and a Mediterranean wrap—delicious and customizable.

Whether served individually as wraps or laid out flat as a shareable board, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Time Required

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Lemony Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground chicken

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tbsp finely chopped red onion

2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped

1 tsp dried oregano

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tbsp lemon juice

½ tsp ground cumin (optional)

Salt & pepper, to taste

2 tbsp breadcrumbs (or almond flour for GF)

1 egg (optional, for binding)

Olive oil for frying or grilling

For the Flatbread:

4 naan, pita, or homemade flatbreads

Olive oil or garlic butter (for brushing)

Optional: sprinkle of za’atar or sesame seeds

Toppings & Assembly:

½ cup Greek yogurt or tzatziki

½ cup crumbled feta cheese

1 small cucumber, thinly sliced or chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

¼ red onion, thinly sliced

Fresh parsley, mint, or dill

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chicken Meatballs

In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, garlic, onion, herbs, lemon zest, juice, spices, breadcrumbs, and egg if using.

Form into small meatballs or slightly flattened ovals (like kofta).

Chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes for easier handling.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a skillet or grill pan with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.

Cook meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side, turning until browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove and rest.

Step 3: Grill the Flatbread

Brush flatbreads lightly with olive oil or garlic butter.

Grill on a pan or outdoor grill for 1–2 minutes per side until slightly charred and warm.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread a layer of yogurt or tzatziki on warm flatbread.

Top with 3–4 chicken meatballs, sliced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta.

Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Serve open-faced or folded.

Tips for Success

Juicier Meatballs: Use a bit of grated onion or yogurt in the meat mix for added moisture.

Uniform Cooking: Flatten meatballs slightly into oval patties so they cook evenly and fit better on flatbreads.

Grill for Flavor: Char-grilling the meatballs and flatbreads brings a smoky depth that elevates the whole dish.

Meal Prep: Make and freeze meatballs ahead, then defrost and grill when needed.

Variations

Vegetarian: Swap chicken meatballs with falafel or grilled halloumi.

Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the meatball mix and top with spicy harissa yogurt.

Sauce Swap: Use hummus or baba ghanoush instead of yogurt for a deeper, richer base.

Flatbread Pizza Style: Top flatbread fully with ingredients and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes like a flatbread pizza.

FAQ

Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs?
A: You can, but fresh lemony herb meatballs are key to the dish’s Mediterranean flavor.

Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flatbread (or lettuce wraps) to make the recipe gluten-free.

Q: Can I use beef or turkey?
A: Yes, ground turkey works similarly to chicken. Beef gives a heartier, gyro-like taste.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

1 flatbread with toppings and 4 meatballs, approx.)

(May vary based on toppings and bread used.)

Conclusion

Mediterranean Grilled Flatbread with Lemony Chicken Meatballs is everything you want in a modern, wholesome Mediterranean meal—quick to make, bursting with flavor, and endlessly versatile. The juicy, herbaceous meatballs combined with creamy yogurt, crunchy veggies, and warm, toasty bread make for an irresistible meal that feels like a vacation in every bite.