Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipes

 Baked chicken meatballs are a lean and tasty protein choice that are perfect for any meal. By using chicken instead of the traditional beef or pork, these meatballs are lower in fat but still packed with flavor. Baking them in the oven keeps them moist and juicy while eliminating the need for additional oil. Serve these meatballs with pasta, in a sandwich, or as a standalone dish with your favorite sauce. 

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for added richness)

Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix until everything is well combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

3. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should get around 20-25 meatballs, depending on size.

4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

5. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes. Serve them with your favorite sauce, pasta, or in a sub sandwich.

Variations & Tips

• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Add a small cube of mozzarella cheese to the center of each meatball before baking for a delicious cheesy surprise.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil, thyme, or cilantro to change the flavor profile. Fresh herbs add brightness, while dried herbs bring depth.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a spicier meatball, add more red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these meatballs gluten-free. They hold up just as well as the regular version.
• Sauce Pairings: These meatballs are great with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or even a honey garlic glaze. You can also toss them in buffalo sauce for a game-day snack.
• Freezing Tip: These meatballs freeze wonderfully. After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Conclusion

Baked chicken meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare, healthy, and adaptable to many different flavors. They offer a great alternative to traditional meatballs without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting guests, or just looking for a quick and nutritious dinner option, these baked chicken meatballs will hit the spot. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a tasty dish on your hands in no time.