Description
These juicy and flavorful Chicken Meatballs offer a lighter alternative to traditional beef versions, crafted with lean ground chicken, fresh garlic, herbs, and a hint of Parmesan cheese. Perfectly baked or pan-fried, they make a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, salad, or your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying or brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper until just combined to maintain tenderness.
- Form the meatballs: Scoop the mixture and roll into approximately 1 ½-inch diameter balls, yielding about 18 to 20 meatballs.
- Prepare for baking: Place the meatballs evenly on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush them with olive oil to help achieve a golden exterior.
- Bake the meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the tops show a light golden color.
- Alternative cooking method: For a pan-frying option, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Serving suggestions: Serve these meatballs warm with marinara sauce, tzatziki, BBQ sauce, or as a compliment to pasta, salad, or rice dishes.
Notes
- Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for chicken in this recipe.
- For extra flavor, try stuffing each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella before cooking.
- These meatballs freeze well, whether raw or cooked, making them perfect for meal prep.