Irresistibly Juicy Chicken Meatballs Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Tender and juicy chicken meatballs dance with flavor in this crowd-pleasing recipe that will have everyone at the table craving more.

These succulent bites pack a punch of Mediterranean-inspired seasonings that elevate a simple protein into something extraordinary.

Each meatball is carefully crafted with premium ground chicken and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.

You’ll love how quickly these come together with minimal prep time and maximum taste impact.

The secret lies in selecting fresh ingredients and mixing them with a gentle touch.

Perfectly browned and incredibly moist, these chicken meatballs promise to be the star of your next meal.

Serving Chicken Meatballs Your Way

• Pasta Party Plate: Serve these juicy chicken meatballs over spaghetti or linguine, generously coated with marinara sauce for a classic Italian-style dinner that brings comfort and flavor to your table.
• Zesty Appetizer Platter: Arrange meatballs on a wooden board with toothpicks, surrounded by marinara dipping sauce, perfect for game nights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
• Salad Protein Boost: Top a crisp mixed green salad with sliced warm meatballs, adding a protein-packed punch and transforming a simple salad into a satisfying meal with Mediterranean flair.

How to Store Chicken Meatball Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap meatballs individually in plastic wrap, place in freezer bags, and store for up to 3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat to 350°F, spread meatballs on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of marinara to prevent drying.
• Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

• Are chicken meatballs healthier than beef meatballs?

Chicken meatballs are generally lower in fat and calories compared to beef meatballs, making them a leaner protein option for those watching their diet.

• Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, you can substitute dried parsley by using about one-third of the amount of fresh parsley called for in the recipe. Just be sure to crush the dried herbs between your fingers to release more flavor.

• How do I prevent my chicken meatballs from becoming dry?

Adding breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese helps keep the meatballs moist. Don’t overcook them, and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F internal temperature without drying out.

Juicy and Flavorful: Chicken Meatballs for Dinner

• Whip Up Versatility: Cook these chicken meatballs using two different methods – frying or baking – giving you flexible preparation options perfect for any kitchen setup or cooking preference.
• Craft Quick Comfort: Packed with simple ingredients like Parmesan, herbs, and spices, these meatballs deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, creating a delicious meal in under half an hour.
• Crowd-Pleasing Protein: Lean ground chicken transforms into a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs, making this recipe fantastic for families seeking nutritious and tasty dinner solutions.
• Mix and Match Meal: Incredibly adaptable dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, can be served as an appetizer, or tucked into sandwiches, ensuring versatility for different dining scenarios.

Everything You Need for Chicken Meatballs

• Ground Chicken: Lean meat that provides the base for the meatballs and offers a lighter alternative to beef.

• Breadcrumbs, Egg: Help bind the meatballs together and maintain their shape during cooking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor and helps with moisture retention.

• Garlic, Onion: Provide depth of flavor and aromatic base for the meatballs.
• Parsley, Italian Seasoning, Paprika: Contribute herbal and warm notes to enhance the overall taste profile.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the other ingredients.

• Olive Oil: Used for frying or brushing meatballs to ensure golden, crispy exterior.
• Marinara Sauce: Classic accompaniment that complements the chicken meatballs.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, bright garnish to the finished dish.

Cooking Chicken Meatballs with Ease

Step 1: Blend Flavor-Packed Ingredients

• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Parmesan cheese
• Minced garlic
• Finely chopped onion
• Fresh parsley
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix thoroughly until all components are harmoniously incorporated, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Step 2: Shape Perfectly Sized Morsels

Gently form the mixture into bite-sized meatballs, aiming for a consistent diameter of about 1.5 inches.

Use light, delicate motions to create smooth, round spheres that will cook evenly.

Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method

Frying Option:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium flame.

Carefully place meatballs in the pan, rotating occasionally to achieve a golden-brown exterior.

Cook for 8-10 minutes until fully cooked through, ensuring no pink remains in the center.

Baking Option:

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with olive oil.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, turning midway to ensure uniform cooking and a crispy exterior.

Step 4: Serve with Flair

Present the meatballs atop a bed of pasta, generously draped with warm marinara sauce.

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with vibrant basil leaves for a restaurant-worthy presentation that will impress family and friends.

Tips for Tender, Juicy Chicken Meatballs

• Select ground chicken with lower fat content for healthier, lighter meatballs that won't become too greasy during cooking.
• Gently combine ingredients to prevent dense, tough meatballs; mix just until ingredients are incorporated to keep them tender.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken meatballs reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.
• Lightly oil hands when forming meatballs to create smooth, uniform shapes that won't break apart during cooking.
• Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or fresh cilantro to create unique taste profiles for your meatballs.

Flavor Options for Chicken Meatballs

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the meatballs' classic texture.
• Spicy Herb Variation: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh chopped cilantro, add red pepper flakes, and incorporate ground cumin for a zesty Mexican-inspired chicken meatball.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip breadcrumbs entirely, use grated zucchini as a binder, and serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta for a keto-friendly meal.
• Mediterranean Spin: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh mint, and replace Parmesan with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy Mediterranean-style chicken meatball.

Chicken Meatballs Recipe

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4.6 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory Mediterranean-style chicken meatballs dance with zesty herbs and spices, creating a culinary journey through Greek flavors. Perfectly seasoned and tender, these meatballs invite you to savor a delightful meal that brings Mediterranean warmth to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Protein:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

Aromatics and Liquid:

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped or grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Serving (Optional):

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 ounces pasta
• Grated parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly blend ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing vessel until ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Craft uniform spherical portions approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring consistent size for even cooking.
3. For pan-frying method: Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat (around 350°F), carefully positioning meatballs to prevent overcrowding.
4. Rotate meatballs periodically, achieving a rich golden-brown exterior and maintaining internal temperature of 165°F, which typically requires 8-10 minutes.
5. Alternatively, for oven-roasting: Preheat oven to 400°F and arrange meatballs on parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brushing with olive oil.
6. Roast for 15-18 minutes, rotating midway to ensure comprehensive browning and confirming internal doneness.
7. Present meatballs atop pasta, accompanied by warmed marinara sauce, then garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and delicate basil leaves for enhanced flavor profile.

Notes

• Ensure ground chicken is not too lean to maintain moisture, preventing dry meatballs.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture and better binding compared to store-bought versions.
• Chill the mixture for 15-30 minutes before shaping to help meatballs hold their form during cooking.
• For gluten-free option, swap breadcrumbs with almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain consistency.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes (pan-frying) or 18 minutes (oven-roasting)
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 325 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 560 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg