Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Garlic Herb Butter Sauce Recipe

These Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs are a healthy and flavorful meal option that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal prep solution. Made with lean ground chicken, a blend of herbs and spices, and a simple lemon garlic herb butter sauce, these meatballs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious chicken meatballs:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground chicken: Lean, for a healthy protein source.
• Egg: Helps bind the meatballs.
• Olive oil: Adds moisture and flavor.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and adds texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated, adds a salty and nutty flavor.
• Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
• Salt and ground black pepper: To taste.
• Onion powder: Adds a savory flavor.
• Dried oregano: Adds an earthy flavor.
• Fresh parsley: Finely chopped, adds a touch of freshness.

For the Lemon Garlic Herb Butter Sauce:

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds a tangy and bright flavor.
• Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
• Fresh parsley, thyme, and oregano: Finely chopped, adds a blend of fresh herbs.
• Salt: To taste.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for a touch of heat.

How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, and chopped parsley. Mix well using a large spoon or spatula.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Scoop about 2 tablespoons (30-35g) of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture, making about 35 meatballs.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Make the Lemon Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and lemon juice. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh herbs and a pinch of salt.

Step 6: Serve

Brush or spoon the lemon garlic herb butter sauce over the baked meatballs. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve warm with pasta, zucchini noodles, or your favorite side dish.

How to Serve Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

• With Pasta: Serve the meatballs with your favorite pasta and marinara sauce.
• With Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs with zucchini noodles and the lemon garlic herb butter sauce.
• On Their Own: Enjoy the meatballs on their own as a protein-packed snack or appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Make Ahead Instructions:

You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time by completing Steps 2 and 3. Cover the unbaked meatballs tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking.

Freezing and Reheating Instructions:

You can freeze the meatballs either cooked or raw. To freeze after baking, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in a freezer-friendly container and freeze for up to 2 months. To freeze before baking, form the meatballs, place them on a lined plate or baking tray, and freeze for 1-2 hours until they’ve set. Then, transfer them to a freezer-friendly container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat cooked meatballs, bake at 400°F (204°C) for 15-18 minutes. To reheat raw meatballs, bake at 400°F (204°C) for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of ground chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken.

Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, whole wheat breadcrumbs, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can skip the Parmesan cheese, but it adds a lot of flavor. You can also replace it with another shredded or crumbled cheese of your choice.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can replace any of the fresh herbs with dried herbs. Use half the amount of dried herbs as fresh herbs.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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