Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe: A Weeknight Favorite Full of Flavor

Chicken meatballs are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a Sunday meal prep session, or even an elegant appetizer at a casual gathering, these meatballs are packed with flavor and come together quickly. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish that even picky eaters will love, this chicken meatballs recipe is a winner.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from a childhood memory of Sunday dinners where meatballs were always on the table, simmering in a rich tomato sauce. As dietary preferences changed in my family, we started exploring leaner options. Ground chicken proved to be the perfect substitute—lighter but still incredibly satisfying when paired with the right ingredients and seasonings. This recipe retains all the savory satisfaction of the classic dish while giving it a wholesome and modern twist.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Meatballs Recipe

• Healthier Protein Option: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are lower in fat but still juicy and tender.

• Versatile: Serve them with spaghetti, in a sandwich, over rice, or enjoy them on their own.

• Meal-Prep Friendly: They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for batch cooking.

• Kid-Approved: Mild flavors with a comforting texture make them a hit with all age groups.

• Baked, Not Fried: A healthier cooking method without sacrificing flavor or texture.

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Ingredients for Chicken Meatballs

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring these flavorful meatballs to life:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken (preferably not ultra-lean for juiciness)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style work best)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup finely chopped onion

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 2 tablespoons milk or chicken broth (adds moisture)

Optional for Serving:

• Marinara sauce

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

• Cooked pasta or bread for serving

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How to Make Chicken Meatballs

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Finely mince the garlic and onion. The finer they are, the more evenly they’ll blend into the meatballs, preventing unwanted chunks. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Add in the milk or chicken broth last to help keep the mixture moist.

Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix until all ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be careful not to overwork the mixture.

3. Shape the Meatballs

Scoop out the mixture and roll into 1½-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop for uniformity. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until the meatballs are golden on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you want a bit of extra browning, broil the meatballs for the last 2–3 minutes.

5. Add to Sauce (Optional)

For an extra flavor boost, warm your favorite marinara sauce in a skillet and simmer the baked meatballs in it for 5–10 minutes before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

These chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for serving them:

• Classic Comfort: Serve over spaghetti with marinara and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

• Low-Carb Meal: Pair with zucchini noodles or roasted veggies.

• Meatball Subs: Stuff into toasted hoagie rolls, top with marinara and mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.

• Party Platter: Skewer and serve with toothpicks as an appetizer with dipping sauce.

• Rice Bowl: Add to a grain bowl with brown rice, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of tahini or soy sauce.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Meatballs

Use the Right Fat Content

Ground chicken that’s too lean can result in dry meatballs. Opt for ground chicken that contains both white and dark meat for a juicier bite.

Don’t Overmix

Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overworking the mixture can make the meatballs dense and tough.

Test Before You Roll

If you want to check seasoning, cook a small piece of the mixture in a skillet and taste it before forming the rest of the meatballs.

Uniform Size Matters

Keeping the meatballs the same size ensures they cook evenly. A cookie scoop helps achieve consistency.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

To Refrigerate:

Let the meatballs cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Freeze:

Place cooled meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in sauce on the stovetop or microwave.

To Reheat:

Warm meatballs in a skillet with a bit of sauce or water to keep them moist. You can also microwave them in 30-second intervals until hot throughout.

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Flavor Variations to Try

• Asian-Inspired: Add ginger, green onions, and soy sauce. Serve with teriyaki glaze and rice.

• Mediterranean: Mix in crumbled feta, dill, and lemon zest. Serve with tzatziki sauce and pita bread.

• Spicy Buffalo: Toss baked meatballs in buffalo sauce and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

• Cheesy Stuffed: Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.

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What to Serve With Chicken Meatballs

Balance your meal with these delicious side options:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—ideal for soaking up sauce.

• Simple Green Salad: Fresh and crisp to contrast the richness of the meatballs.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy comfort food that pairs beautifully with savory meatballs.

• Steamed Broccoli or Roasted Veggies: Adds color, nutrients, and texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works great in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but the method and proportions remain the same.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are safe for your dietary needs.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes, pan-fry them in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil until golden brown and cooked through. Baking is less hands-on and slightly healthier, but both methods work.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut one open; it should no longer be pink in the center.

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Conclusion: A Recipe to Keep on Repeat

This chicken meatballs recipe is everything a home-cooked meal should be—simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re whipping up a big family dinner or stocking your freezer for busy nights, these meatballs are a reliable, delicious choice. Their tender texture, bold flavor, and easy preparation make them a staple you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Try this recipe once, and it may just become your new go-to. Don’t forget to experiment with sauces, spices, and sides to make it your own. Happy cooking!

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