Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Crafting these chicken meatballs feels like a little culinary triumph in my kitchen. The combination of Parmesan and herbs makes each bite a delightful burst of flavor, perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with a homey touch.

Creating nutritious and scrumptious dishes is my passion, and my chicken meatballs exemplify that perfectly. Ground lean chicken forms the base of this protein-packed masterpiece, but it’s the cream and freshly grated Parmesan that really make the meatballs sing.

I don’t usually have fresh parsley on hand, but when I do, you better believe these meatballs are on the menu. They’d make a delightful topping for just about any pasta.

Chicken Meatballs Recipe Ingredients

• Ground Chicken: A lean protein source that is lower in calories and fat compared to beef.

  Perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal.

• Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and help bind the meatballs together.

  They add a subtle texture and lightness.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness and umami flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the meatballs.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together while adding moisture and richness.
• Garlic: Aids in boosting the immune system and adds a pungent, aromatic depth to the dish.
• Parsley: Rich in vitamins A and C, it adds freshness and a mild, herby taste.
• Olive Oil: Adds monounsaturated fats, known for heart health.

  Creates a crispy exterior when frying.

Chicken Meatballs Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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

How to Make this Chicken Meatballs Recipe

1. In a big mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until almost no dry mixture remains; it is better to undermix than to overmix.

2.
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

3. Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture of meat into balls 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the baking sheet you prepared earlier. Space the balls about 1 inch apart.

4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

5. If necessary, work in batches to add the meatballs to the skillet. Brown the meatballs on all sides, allowing about 2-3 minutes per side, to achieve a nice exterior color. This step colors the meatballs but does not require them to be fully cooked through yet.

6. If the baking sheet does not already contain the browned meatballs, then transfer them to the baking sheet.

7. In the preheated oven, place the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. Take the meatballs out of the oven and allow them to sit for a couple of minutes before serving.

9. Provide the meatballs hot with the option of sauce or pasta, and they might serve well as first-course appetizers.

10. If you like, you can add extra parsley and more of the grated Parmesan for garnish just before serving. If you like, sprinkle extra chopped parsley and part of the grated Parmesan on top just before serving.

Chicken Meatballs Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups and spoons
3. Grater
4. Garlic press or knife
5. Chopping board
6. Knife
7. Spoon or spatula for mixing
8. Ice cream scoop or your hands
9. Baking sheet
10. Parchment paper or cooking spray
11. Skillet
12. Tongs or spatula
13. Oven
14. Meat thermometer (optional)

FAQ

• Can I use turkey instead of chicken?Indeed, turkey that is ground makes for a superb alternative to chicken when preparing this particular dish.
• What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?As an alternative, try using crushed crackers, panko, or ground oats.
• How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?Utilize gluten-free breadcrumbs and verify that your remaining components, such as Parmesan cheese, are distinctly certified as gluten-free.
• Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?Certainly. Cook them at 400°F for approximately 20-25 minutes until satisfactory completion has been achieved.
• How can I store leftover meatballs?Keep them in a sealed container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days; or you can freeze them, and they’ll remain good for up to three months.
• What dishes pair well with these meatballs?They complement pasta beautifully, and are delightful in a salad or as the filling for a meatball sub.
• Can I add other herbs or spices?Customize with basil, thyme, or paprika to suit your taste preferences.

Chicken Meatballs Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Ground Chicken—Substitute with ground turkey for a similar, lean protein option.
Use almond flour or crushed crackers as a gluten-free alternative to breadcrumbs.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
Parsley: Fresh parsley, as well as fresh cilantro or basil, can impart a different flavor profile.
Avocado oil or melted coconut oil can be used to substitute olive oil, offering a different flavor altogether.

Pro Tips

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged. It will enhance the taste and texture of the meatballs.