Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
Baked chicken meatballs are a delicious and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they make a perfect appetizer, main dish, or meal prep option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (56g) or crushed saltine crackers
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (50g)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or 2 tablespoons diced fresh onion
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley (15g)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use your hands, a meat chopper, or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly without overworking the mixture.
- Step 3: Scoop the mixture into about 25 small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart.
- Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of milk to the mixture.
- Swap parmesan with pecorino romano for a slightly different salty kick.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Storage
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes or microwave until heated through.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute and will yield similar results in texture and flavor.
How can I prevent meatballs from drying out?
Be careful not to overmix the ingredients, and avoid overbaking. Adding a bit of olive oil or milk can also help keep them moist.
PrintBaked Chicken Meatballs Recipe
These Baked Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. Made with ground chicken, parmesan, fresh herbs, and simple seasonings, they are easy to prepare and bake to a juicy, tender perfection. Perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or served over pasta or salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 25 small meatballs 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken (or ground turkey)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (56g) or crushed saltine crackers
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (50g)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove minced garlic)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (or 2 tablespoons diced fresh onion)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley (15g, chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and chopped parsley. Use your hands, a meat chopper, or a spoon to thoroughly mix everything until well combined.
- Form the meatballs: Scoop the meat mixture into approximately 25 small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them spaced about ½ inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should be slightly golden.
- Store leftovers: Once cooled, store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken.
- If you prefer, you can use crushed saltine crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
- For extra moisture and flavor, you can add a splash of milk to the mixture.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and browning.
- These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keywords: baked chicken meatballs, healthy meatballs, ground chicken recipe, easy dinner, parmesan meatballs, baked meatballs

