Chicken Meatballs

Alright, let’s talk about chicken meatballs—the quiet hero of the weeknight dinner scene. They’re tender, juicy, and way more flavorful than you might expect. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, sliding them into a sub, or just dunking them in your favorite sauce, these little bites of joy are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Think golden-brown on the outside, juicy and herby on the inside, and totally customizable to fit whatever you’re craving. Plus, they’re healthier than traditional beef or pork meatballs, but still just as satisfying. Trust me, once you make a batch, you’re going to wonder how you ever lived without them.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Meatballs

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve them in marinara over spaghetti, in a grain bowl, tucked into sliders, or as party apps with toothpicks and dipping sauces.

Budget-Friendly: Ground chicken is affordable and easy to find. A few pantry staples and you’re good to go.

Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients, easy prep, and done in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Customizable: Spice them up with chili flakes, go Mediterranean with feta and oregano, or keep it classic with garlic and parmesan.

Crowd-Pleasing: Mild, juicy, and flavorful—everyone from picky eaters to foodies will love these.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Chicken Meatballs

Ground Chicken: Lean and tender, it’s the perfect base for soaking up herbs, spices, and all that savory goodness.

Breadcrumbs: Help bind the mixture and keep the meatballs moist and tender.

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, umami depth and a little extra richness.

Garlic: Fresh and aromatic—it brings that classic meatball flavor to life.

Onion (grated or finely minced): Adds moisture and a gentle sweetness.

Fresh Parsley: Brightens the flavor and adds a little color to the mix.

Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key! Don’t skimp here—taste matters.

Olive Oil (for cooking): Helps you get that perfect golden crust when pan-frying.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment: If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F. If pan-frying, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined. Don’t overmix—it’ll keep the meatballs tender.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: If baking, line a sheet pan with parchment or foil. If pan-frying, make sure your skillet is hot and lightly oiled.

Assemble the Dish: Roll the mixture into evenly sized balls (about 1.5 inches wide) and place them on your baking sheet or directly into the hot pan.

Cook to Perfection:

• Oven: Bake for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly golden.
• Skillet: Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning until evenly browned and fully cooked.

Finishing Touches: If serving with sauce, add meatballs to a pot of warm marinara or glaze with a sweet-and-spicy sauce just before serving.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve over pasta, rice, salad, in a sandwich—or straight from the pan if you can’t wait.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: [Time to prepare ingredients]
Cook Time: [Time to cook or bake]
Total Time: [Total time needed]

How to Serve Chicken Meatballs

With Pasta: Classic marinara and spaghetti never disappoint.

As Appetizers: Serve on toothpicks with buffalo, BBQ, or teriyaki dipping sauces.

In Sandwiches: Tuck into a hoagie with melted provolone and sauce.

Over Grains: Top rice, quinoa, or couscous with meatballs and roasted veggies for a bowl-style meal.

On Salad: Add protein to your lunch salad with a few sliced meatballs and your favorite dressing.

Additional Tips

Wet Your Hands: Lightly wet hands before rolling the mixture—it prevents sticking and helps shape perfect meatballs.

Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overworking the meat can make the meatballs tough.

Make Ahead: These freeze beautifully! Cook and cool, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Try Baking + Broiling: Bake until cooked, then broil for 2–3 minutes to get that golden-brown top.

Add Extra Flavor: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chili flakes, or even a touch of Dijon mustard for a flavor boost.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A1: Definitely! The recipe works just as well with ground turkey.

Q2: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A2: Yes! Baking is easy and mess-free. Just pop them in the oven at 400°F for about 18–20 minutes.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q4: Can I freeze chicken meatballs?
A4: Yes! Freeze cooked meatballs and reheat in sauce or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Q5: How do I keep them from drying out?
A5: Don’t overcook, and make sure your mixture includes moisture-rich ingredients like grated onion and a bit of oil or cheese.

Q6: Are these gluten-free?
A6: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and you’re good to go.

Q7: What sauces go well with chicken meatballs?
A7: Marinara, pesto, buffalo, BBQ, teriyaki, or even a creamy garlic sauce—these are incredibly versatile.

Q8: Can I air-fry these?
A8: Yes! Cook in an air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Q9: What sides go well with this dish?
A9: Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh salad are all great options.

Q10: Can I stuff these with cheese?
A10: Absolutely! Try tucking a cube of mozzarella inside each one before rolling. Game-changer.

Conclusion

These Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable—basically your new go-to for quick, satisfying meals. They come together fast, freeze like a dream, and taste amazing however you serve them. So go ahead, whip up a batch and get creative. Dinner just got a whole lot more delicious.

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