Chicken meatballs are a delightful dance of flavors, texture, and aroma that can take a simple dinner to extraordinary heights. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken blended with spices and herbs, delivering that perfect pop in every bite. Your kitchen fills with an irresistible scent that makes everyone wonder when they can dive in.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Chicken Meatballs</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I serve with chicken meatballs?
- How do I know when chicken meatballs are cooked?
- Can chicken meatballs be frozen?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe for chicken meatballs brings family and friends together, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Every time I make them, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the laughter was as abundant as the delicious food. Anticipate the joy of your loved ones as they savor these delectable bites that promise to be a staple in your household.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These chicken meatballs are easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of savory and spices, guaranteed to impress
- Their golden-brown color is visually appealing and makes them irresistible on any plate
- Versatile enough for pasta, sandwiches, or on their own for snacking
I still remember the first time I served these at a family gathering; everyone raved about them and went for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Chicken: Choose lean ground chicken for juicy meatballs without excess fat.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor; they help bind the meatballs perfectly.
Eggs: One egg serves as an excellent binder; it keeps everything together while adding moisture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth and richness; don’t skimp on this one.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the flavor and adds a lovely pop of color.
Garlic Powder: Provides a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall taste profile; fresh garlic works too!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preference.
Olive Oil: Use for cooking; it adds flavor while keeping everything moist during the cooking process.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Meatballs
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while preparing for optimum cooking.
Mixing Time: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated but avoid overmixing.
Shaping the Meatballs: Using your hands (wet them if necessary), shape the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a lined baking sheet ensuring they have some space between each ball.
Bake Those Meatballs: Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You can check doneness using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
Sautéing for Extra Flavor: While baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once ready, you can briefly sauté baked meatballs just until they develop an extra crispy exterior.
Serve and Enjoy: Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with marinara sauce over spaghetti or enjoy as appetizers with toothpicks!
Now you have delightful chicken meatballs ready to impress! Enjoy sharing this recipe with friends and family—just don’t forget to save some for yourself!
You Must Know
- Chicken meatballs are not just a meal; they are a mood-lifter
- The aroma of fresh herbs and sizzling meat fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- These juicy morsels are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to fancy gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your ingredients thoroughly, then form into even-sized meatballs for consistent cooking. Sear the meatballs in a hot pan for flavor before baking them in the oven until juicy perfection is achieved.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in ground turkey or add grated cheese for extra flavor. Experiment with spices like paprika or fresh herbs to elevate your chicken meatballs to a whole new level.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth for moisture if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use breadcrumbs soaked in milk for tenderness; it keeps your chicken meatballs moist and delicious
- Avoid overmixing to prevent dense meatballs; mix just until combined
- Finally, allow them to rest after cooking to lock in juices and maximize flavor
Sometimes I whip up a batch of chicken meatballs for game night, and my friends can’t stop raving about them. It’s those little moments that make cooking so enjoyable!
FAQ
What can I serve with chicken meatballs?
Chicken meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
How do I know when chicken meatballs are cooked?
Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Can chicken meatballs be frozen?
Absolutely! Freeze cooked chicken meatballs for up to three months for easy meals later.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Chicken Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 meatballs (serves four) 1x
Description
Chicken meatballs are a flavorful and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Juicy ground chicken is combined with aromatic herbs and spices, creating bite-sized delights perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. These meatballs are not only easy to make but also a family favorite that will bring smiles to your table. Serve them with pasta, in sandwiches, or as appetizers—your guests will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Optional: Sauté baked meatballs in olive oil for an extra crispy exterior.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
