What are chicken meatballs? They’re a lifesaver around here. I’m talking juicy, flavorful little orbs of deliciousness that even my pickiest eater devours. Think of them as a cross between Italian meatballs and chicken nuggets. Is it healthier to eat fish? What are some recipes that become a staple? What are some of our family’s favorite chicken meatballs?
What are chicken meatballs?
What are chicken meatballs? Ground chicken, seasoned to perfection, then rolled into cute little balls, and then baked or pan-fried. Is it necessary to cook a Think of it as a blank canvas for deliciousness. Can you toss them in marinara for a classic Italian vibe, or coat them with sweet and sour sauce for an authentic Italian flavor? Asian-inspired meal, or even serve them with a creamy gravy for ultimate comfort food. Is there a better protein than plain potato chips? What are chicken breasts
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are a million reasons to love these chicken meatballs, but let me give you my top ones. First off, the flavor is incredible! We’re talking savory, herby, and just a hint of garlic – seriously, they’re addictive. But beyond that, they’re shockingly simple to make. I’m a busy mom, and this is one of those recipes that I can whip up even when I’m short on time. Plus, they’re surprisingly cost-effective. Ground chicken is usually pretty budget-friendly, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry.
What I love most about this is its versatility! We have it with pasta, in soups, on sandwiches, even just as a snack on its own! It’s so amazing and delicious and perfect in my book. I’ve made so many varieties and it always ends up tasting great!
And if you are craving something like this, but more beefy, these meatballs are also a great stepping stone to a classic Italian meal.
How do I make chicken meatballs?
Quick Overview
How do I make chicken meatballs? What is the best way to make meatballs? What is the best part? You can customize the flavors to your liking. What are some of the best recipes for beginners to learn?
Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs: For a
* 1.5 lbs ground chicken (I prefer organic when possible)
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian seasoned work great)
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (the real stuff makes a difference! )
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup milk (I’ve used almond milk)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Baking:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (to lightly grease the baking sheet) (optional)
For Pan-Fry
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil. If you’re pan-frying, skip this step for now.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all of the meatball ingredients: onion, garlic, and salt. Set aside. Chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, milk, oregano, salt, pepper. What is the best way to make meatballs?
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands (or a small cookie scoop for uniformity), form the mixture into meatballs about 2 inches thick. What is a 1-inch diameter? I always wet my hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.
Step 4: Bake or Pan-Fry
For baking: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
For pan-frying:In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. About 15-20 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately with your favorite sauce and sides. See below for serving suggestions!
What should I serve it with?
These chicken meatballs are so versatile, the possibilities are endless!
Here are some ideas for serving it with:
What is a classic Italian meal?Toss them in marinara sauce and serve over spaghetti. What are some good ideas for adding Parmesan cheese to a salad? I do this for most occasions as it is my favorite way of enjoying these meatballs. I like to serve them with a side salad and some garlic bread to create an incredibly full and well rounded meal!For an Asian-Inspired Feast:In a sweet and sour sauce or teriyaki sauce, serve with rice and stir-fried veggies.What is the best comfort food for dinner?Serve with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.What is a quick and easy lunch? Stuff them into pita bread with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki sauce.
For a Game Day Snack: Serve them on a platter with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces.
What are some of the best ways to make chicken meatballs?
What are some tips to make sure your chicken meatballs are always cooked to perfection?Don’t overmix meatballs.If you overmix meatballs, gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.Use a good quality Parmesan cheese. The real stuff makes a big difference in flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when pan-frying. If you overcrowd the pan, the meatballs will steam instead of brown. Work in batches if necessary.
Make sure the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
Get creative with the seasonings! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami. I even tested it with some paprika and it added a great smokiness to the meatballs.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature: Cooked chicken meatballs can be left at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked chicken meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: Freeze cooked chicken meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to glaze the meatballs, wait until you’re ready to serve them. Glazing them before storing can make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to chicken meatball recipe! It’s simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile. I really hope you give these a try. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my classic Italian meatball recipe or my sweet and sour chicken stir-fry. Let me know in the comments how yours turn out! Happy cooking!
chicken meatballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken preferably lean
- 0.5 cup bread crumbs plain or Italian seasoned
- 0.25 cup milk any kind
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce
- 1 jar marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, bread crumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan.
- Add the baked meatballs to the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
