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.

A white round plate sits on a white marbled surface, holding a colorful meal arranged in three main layers. The bottom layer is a bed of reddish-brown cooked rice mixed with small bits of green and orange vegetables, providing a textured and slightly moist base. On top of the rice, there are ten round, light golden-brown veggie balls with a slightly rough surface speckled with herbs, spread evenly over the rice layer. To the right side of the plate, a cluster of bright green steamed snap peas adds a fresh and smooth contrast in texture and color. A silver fork rests on the edge of the plate, with a striped cloth napkin nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. 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.
  3. Step 3: Scoop the mixture into about 25 small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart.
  4. 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

A white plate on a white marbled surface holds a colorful meal with three main layers: at the bottom, there is a bed of mixed rice that looks fluffy and has orange, red, and green bits mixed in, giving it a textured look; on top of the rice, there are eight light brown meatballs evenly placed, each with small herbs visible on the surface, adding green specks; to the right side of the plate, a neat pile of bright green snap peas adds a fresh, smooth texture and color contrast. A silver fork rests on the left edge of the plate, and a striped cloth napkin sits beneath it. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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.

Print

Baked 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.

  • Author: Clara
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

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