Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for that perfect weeknight dinner idea or craving a comfort food that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, you’re in for a treat! This Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe is hands down one of my favorite go-tos. It’s super easy, cooks up fast, and delivers moist, tender meatballs that have just the right amount of golden crisp on top. Plus, the blend of garlic, Parmesan, and herbs makes every bite a little celebration in your mouth. Stick around because I’m about to spill all my secrets to making these meatballs absolutely irresistible!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a role, coming together to create a juicy, flavorful meatball that bakes evenly. I’ve found that using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular crumbs really lightens the texture, and a touch of Parmesan adds richness without overpowering the chicken’s natural taste.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These absorb moisture yet keep the meatballs light and tender, preventing that heavy, dense feeling.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, savory depth; freshly grated is best for that rich flavor.
• Large Egg: Acts as a binder so your meatballs hold together without falling apart.
• Olive Oil: A little in the mix plus some for greasing helps keep the meatballs from sticking and adds subtle flavor.
• Garlic (Minced & Powder): Double garlic? Yes please! Minced gives freshness while powder boosts aroma throughout.
• Onion Powder: Sneaks in a mild sweetness that compliments the chicken beautifully.
• Dried Oregano: A classic herb that pairs perfectly with garlic and cheese to elevate each bite.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings; they bring out the natural flavors brilliantly.
• Ground Chicken: Lean and mild-flavored, perfect for a healthier meatball without sacrificing juiciness when handled just right.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Whether you want a spicier twist, something lower carb, or a flavor that’s perfect for kids, you can tweak this recipe to your heart’s content. It’s your canvas, really!

• Spicy Kick: I often add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mix for a little heat that wakes up the palate.
• Herb Swap: Fresh basil or thyme can replace oregano for a lighter, fresher herb note—it’s a favorite when summer’s in full swing.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs and you’re good to go without missing a beat.
• Cheese Mix-Up: Try shredded mozzarella or a blend of Parmesan and Asiago for a cheesier, melty surprise inside.

How to Make Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to a hot 425°F — this temperature helps cook the meatballs quickly, sealing in moisture. Don’t forget to grease a rimmed baking sheet lightly with olive oil; I like using a rimmed one because it keeps any juices from spilling over and makes clean-up easier.

Step 2: Mix Your Flavor Base

Combine every ingredient except the ground chicken in a large bowl first. I use a fork to mix everything well—this helps distribute those garlic, cheese, and herbs evenly before the meat hits the bowl.

Step 3: Incorporate the Ground Chicken Gently

Add the ground chicken to your seasoned mix and gently fold with your hands. It’s key not to overwork the meat because that can make your meatballs tough. I usually stop mixing as soon as everything looks combined and the color is uniform.

Step 4: Shape Those Meatballs

Now the fun part: shaping the meatballs! I aim for about 1 ¾ inches in diameter since this size cooks evenly without drying out. If the mixture sticks to your hands, a quick tip—run your hands under cold water or rub them with a little olive oil to ease rolling.

Step 5: Bake and Broil for Perfect Finish

Place your meatballs on the baking sheet with a little breathing room and bake for 10-11 minutes. To get that gorgeous golden top and finish cooking, I pop them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. I like using an instant-read thermometer to hit 165°F internally for safe, juicy meatballs every time.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil on top—adds a punch of color and freshness that brightens each bite. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or even a few shavings of Parmesan right before serving never hurts either!

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti and marinara for a classic, cozy dinner. But my family also adores them alongside roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. For a lighter option, toss them over a vibrant mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like to serve these on skewers with cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls for an appetizer platter. Or set up a fun meatball slider station with mini buns and assorted toppings — guests love making their own combos!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They hold their moisture really well, so if you save some for the next day, you won’t be sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

Freezing is my go-to whenever I make a big batch. After baking and cooling completely, I lay them out on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months, making quick meals a breeze.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop frozen meatballs directly into a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. For refrigerated leftovers, a quick zap in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel keeps them tender without drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe, I was honestly surprised by how juicy and delicious it was with such simple ingredients. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen because it’s easy to make, healthy, and everyone loves it. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids, prepping meals for the week, or just want a satisfying homemade dinner, this recipe won’t disappoint. Trust me—you’ll want to keep it in your rotation, and soon enough, your family and friends will be asking you to make it again and again. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

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