If you’re searching for a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare, these chicken meatballs are the answer! Packed with flavor and incredibly juicy, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal or meal-prep recipe. Serve them with pasta, a fresh salad, or even on their own with a dipping sauce for a family-friendly, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You should get about 18-20 meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve with pasta, marinara sauce, or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips for the Best Chicken Meatballs
- Don’t Overmix: To keep the meatballs tender, mix the ingredients just until combined.
- Customize the Flavors: Try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a dash of smoked paprika, or finely chopped spinach for extra flavor.
- Baking Option: If you prefer to bake, place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile! Serve them:
- With Pasta: Add them to your favorite pasta and marinara sauce for a classic comfort meal.
- In Subs: Place them in a sub roll with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese for a delicious meatball sub.
- As an Appetizer: Offer them with toothpicks and a side of marinara, tzatziki, or barbecue sauce as an appetizer.
Final Thoughts
Chicken meatballs are an easy, family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With a juicy texture and flavorful herbs and seasonings, these meatballs will quickly become a go-to favorite. Plus, they’re great for meal prepping, so you’ll have delicious meals ready in no time.