Easy Baked Chicken Meatball Recipe (with Ground Chicken)

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs without sacrificing flavor, this easy baked chicken meatball recipe is just what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or prepping ahead for family dinners, these juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs are baked—not fried—for a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Made with simple pantry staples and ground chicken, they’re quick, versatile, and freezer-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or drizzling)

Ingredient Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Dairy-Free Option: Omit the Parmesan or substitute with a non-dairy cheese alternative.
• Egg-Free: Replace egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
• No fresh herbs? Dried parsley or Italian seasoning works well too.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Baked Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or brushing it lightly with olive oil.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, herbs, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended. Be careful not to overmix, as it can lead to tough, dense meatballs.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Scoop the mixture with a cookie scoop or tablespoon and roll into 1.5-inch balls. Arrange the meatballs on the baking sheet, leaving space between them for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and fully cooked—an internal temperature of 165°F ensures they’re done.

Step 5: Serve or Store

Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving or storing. Enjoy immediately or save for meal prep!

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Meatballs

• Lightly oil your hands when shaping meatballs to prevent sticking.
• For extra flavor, brush meatballs with olive oil before baking.
• Don’t overwork the mixture—gentle mixing yields tender meatballs.
• Add a tablespoon of milk if the mixture feels too dry.

Serving Ideas and Delicious Uses

These baked chicken meatballs are super versatile:

• Serve with marinara sauce over spaghetti.
• Toss into a wrap or pita with tzatziki and veggies.
• Pair with mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Make a chicken meatball sub with melted cheese.
• Add to soups, rice bowls, or salads.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerate in a sealed container and enjoy within 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze cooled meatballs in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. Store up to 3 months.

For reheating: use a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 30-second increments until hot throughout.

FAQs: Chicken Meatball Recipe

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes! Ground turkey works great as a 1:1 substitute.

Why are my meatballs dry? Avoid overbaking and ensure the mix isn’t too lean or dry—add milk or a bit more onion if needed.

Can I fry instead of bake? Absolutely. Just cook in a skillet with oil over medium heat until browned and cooked through.

How do I know they’re done? Use a meat thermometer—meatballs should hit 165°F internally.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4 meatballs)

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Conclusion

This easy baked chicken meatball recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier, delicious twist on a classic. Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute dinner idea, these flavorful meatballs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try them once, and they’ll be on repeat all year long!