Why Make This Recipe
Baked Chicken Meatballs are a great choice for a healthy and delicious meal. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. These meatballs are a wonderful alternative to traditional beef meatballs, making them lighter and healthier while still delivering on taste. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve in various ways, whether over pasta, in a sub, or as a snack.
How to Make Baked Chicken Meatballs
Making Baked Chicken Meatballs is simple and quick. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up these tasty bites in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2/3 cup Italian-flavored bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan
- 1 egg
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Spray it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use your clean hands to mix them well.
- Use a tablespoon measuring spoon to scoop and shape the mixture into meatballs, each about 2 tablespoons in size. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake them for 24-26 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If you prefer smaller meatballs, about 1 tablespoon in size, bake them for 20-22 minutes.
- Serve warm or let them cool and freeze for later.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Meatballs
Baked Chicken Meatballs can be served in many delicious ways. They are fantastic over pasta with marinara sauce, tucked inside a crusty sub roll for a meatball sandwich, or even as an appetizer with toothpicks and dipping sauce. Pair them with a fresh salad or veggies for a complete meal.
How to Store Baked Chicken Meatballs
To store Baked Chicken Meatballs, let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Just place the cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will be good for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Baked Chicken Meatballs
- Ensure the ground chicken is fresh for the best flavor.
- You can add spices or herbs like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for additional taste.
- If you want extra moisture, try adding a bit of olive oil to the mixture.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized meatballs.
Variation
For a twist on this recipe, consider adding different ingredients. You could use ground turkey instead of chicken, or include minced garlic and chopped herbs for extra flavor. Additionally, swap the bread crumbs for gluten-free options if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I use lean ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes, lean ground turkey works well and is a great alternative.
2. Can I bake these meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can make them ahead of time, bake, and then refrigerate or freeze them.
3. How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
You can check with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F. They should also be golden brown on the outside.
Baked Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Spray it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients. Use your clean hands to mix them well.
- Use a tablespoon measuring spoon to scoop and shape the mixture into meatballs, each about 2 tablespoons in size. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake them for 24-26 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If you prefer smaller meatballs, about 1 tablespoon in size, bake them for 20-22 minutes.