Introduction
Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner option, a savory appetizer, or a protein-packed snack, chicken meatballs are a versatile and satisfying choice. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through creating the best anytime baked chicken meatballs that are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use panko or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and egg. Mix everything together until well combined. It’s best to use your hands for this step to ensure thorough mixing.
- Once the mixture is well combined, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the meatball onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until all of the mixture has been used, spacing the meatballs evenly on the baking sheet.
- Once all the meatballs are formed and placed on the baking sheet, lightly brush the tops of the meatballs with a little olive oil. This will help them brown nicely in the oven.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You can test for doneness by cutting into one of the meatballs to ensure that it’s no longer pink in the center.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them as is for a tasty appetizer or snack, or you can pair them with your favorite pasta and marinara sauce for a satisfying meal.
- Enjoy your delicious anytime baked chicken meatballs!
Conclusion
These baked chicken meatballs are a fantastic option for any occasion. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Plus, since they’re baked rather than fried, they’re a healthier choice without sacrificing any taste. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with these irresistible homemade meatballs!
FAQs
- Question: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
- Answer: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe for a slightly different flavor.
- Question: Can I freeze these meatballs?
- Answer: Absolutely! These baked chicken meatballs freeze well. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Question: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Or you can bake the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.
- Question: What can I serve with these meatballs?
- Answer: These baked chicken meatballs are delicious served with pasta and marinara sauce, or you can enjoy them on their own as a snack or appetizer.
- Question: Can I customize the seasoning in this recipe?
- Answer: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more herbs or spices, or even add some grated cheese for extra flavor.