1cupmix of fresh herbs(parsley, dill, chives, mint)
1small shallot or white onion
1garlic clove
1tspsalt
1tbspextra virgin olive oil
½lemon, juiced
1lbground chicken
½cuppanko breadcrumbs (or almond flour)
pinch pepper
Lemon yogurt:
½cupgreek style yogurt(any kind, I used full-fat)
½lemon, juiced
½tspgarlic powder
1tbspchopped fresh dill
salt + pepper to taste
Cucumber Salad:
3small persian cucumbers(or 1 large)
splash of: olive oil, salt, red wine vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
Make the cucumber salad:
Slice the cucumbers into chunks or medium slices, add to a bowl with a generous pinch of salt, pepper, a little olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar (or lemon juice). Toss and set aside.
Make the yogurt:
Combine all ingredients together, mix well, and set aside or spread evenly on your serving platter.
Make the meatballs:
In a food processor, combine the egg, roughly chopped herbs, salt, shallot, garlic clove, olive oil, and lemon juice. Pulse until mixed well.
To a large bowl, add the egg + herb mixture and breadcrumbs. Stir together and let sit 5 minutes. I sweat this makes a big difference in the end texture!
Add the ground chicken and mix well, without over doing it, using either your hands or a spatula. I prefer hands to get everything incorporated together.
Cook on the stovetop in a cast iron or other frying pan. Let the pan heat up over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and then wait another minute. Make sure it's hot before adding the meatballs for a good sear! Cook until internal temperature reads 165, flipping/rolling as needed (about 7-8 minutes per side).
If they're getting too brown, but aren't done yet, turn the heat down, add a splash of water and cover to help them cook through.
You can also cook in the oven by laying on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cooking at 400 degrees for around 20-25 minutes.
Place the meatballs over the yogurt, pile the cucumbers on top and finish with more fresh mint or dill if you have extra!
Notes
The meatballs will last for 5 days in the fridge or can be frozen longer. You can also make the yogurt and/or meatballs ahead of time and just re-heat them in the oven before serving. The cucumber salad is best made just before eating.