Chicken Meatballs Recipe

4 from 1 vote

These baked Italian chicken meatballs transform simple ground chicken into juicy, tender perfection with parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs. Every bite delivers incredible flavor that reminds you of authentic Italian cooking, creating comfort food magic that brings families together around the dinner table with pure satisfaction.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Resting Time 5

Total Time 40

Servings:6 portions

Course:Appetizer, Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine:Italian, Mediterranean

Calories:245kcal

Cost:$8.75

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

2 pounds ground chicken, 96% lean Choose high-quality lean ground chicken for best texture
1 large egg Acts as primary binder for meatball mixture
1 cup panko breadcrumbs Creates lighter texture than regular breadcrumbs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese Adds flavor and natural binding properties
2 tablespoons olive oil Keeps meatballs moist during baking process
1 teaspoon minced garlic Fresh garlic provides aromatic Italian flavor
1 teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors and seasons properly
½ teaspoon black pepper Adds subtle heat and depth
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning Blend of herbs for authentic Italian taste
cooking spray Prevents sticking to baking sheet
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish and fresh herb flavor

Equipment

1 Large sheet pan For baking the meatballs to golden perfection
1 Large mixing bowl To combine all meatball ingredients properly
1 Aluminum foil To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup
1 Cooking spray Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal
1 Small cookie scoop Optional - for uniform meatball sizing
1 Meat thermometer To ensure meatballs reach safe internal temperature

Method

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and line a sheet pan with aluminum foil, then coat thoroughly with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Place ground chicken, egg, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a large mixing bowl.
Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix ingredients gently until thoroughly combined, being careful not to overmix the delicate chicken.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch sized balls using your hands or a small scoop, creating approximately 24 evenly-sized meatballs.
Place shaped meatballs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch for optimal browning and cooking.
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until meatballs are golden brown and reach 165°F internal temperature.
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color, flavor, and authentic Italian presentation.
Let meatballs rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute, then serve warm with your favorite sauce or sides.

Nutrition

Serving: 120gCalories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 28gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 485mgPotassium: 315mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 125IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 95mgIron: 1.8mg

Notes

The secret to perfectly tender chicken meatballs lies in not overmixing the ingredients and using lean ground chicken with proper binding agents. Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter texture than regular breadcrumbs, while parmesan cheese adds both flavor and natural binding properties that keep these meatballs juicy and delicious.