Name: Ground Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup bread crumbs (I used panko bread crumbs); 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper

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When I think about comfort food, Ground Chicken Meatballs immediately comes to mind. There’s something so warm and inviting about these little bites of joy that can brighten even the gloomiest of days. I remember the first time I made them; the aroma of savory spices filled my kitchen, drawing my family closer to the dining table. It felt like a cozy hug on a plate! These meatballs aren’t just a meal; they’re an experience, a family tradition waiting to happen. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering of friends, the Ground Chicken Meatballs never fail to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
3 mins

Cook Time:
17 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Paleo, AIP, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Oven

Why This Ground Chicken Meatballs Hits Different

Flavorful and Versatile

One of the first things you’ll love about my Ground Chicken Meatballs is their flavor. Each bite is packed with spices and seasoning, making them deliciously addictive! The Italian seasoning combined with the natural taste of ground chicken creates a beautiful harmony that keeps you coming back for more.

Healthier Alternative

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, look no further! These meatballs are made with ground chicken, which is leaner than beef or pork, making it a fantastic option for those watching their fat intake. Plus, with a few wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a guilt-free meal!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another reason to adore this recipe is its meal prep potential! You can whip up a large batch of Ground Chicken Meatballs and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners during the week. They reheat beautifully and are incredibly versatile, pairing well with pasta, salads, or even on their own!

Kid-Friendly

Getting kids to eat healthy can sometimes be a challenge, but these meatballs are a hit among the younger crowd! Their bite-sized shape makes them fun to eat, and you can customize the flavors to suit their taste preferences. Plus, they can be dipped in their favorite sauces, making mealtime a breeze.

Easy to Make

Let’s not forget how easy it is to prepare these delightful bites! With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make Ground Chicken Meatballs. It’s a great recipe for novice cooks looking to boost their kitchen confidence. In no time, you’ll be serving up a delicious dish!

Family-Friendly Meal

Lastly, Ground Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic family-friendly meal. They’re filling, satisfying, and can be served in various ways to please every palate at the table. Whether in a classic spaghetti and meatball dish or as a protein-packed appetizer, they are sure to be a family favorite!

Essential Ingredients for Ground Chicken Meatballs

The ingredients for Ground Chicken Meatballs are simple yet effective, coming together to create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Each plays a vital role in the outcome, ensuring that every meatball is moist and packed with flavor.

1 pound ground chicken – The star of the dish, providing a lean source of protein.
2 large eggs – They act as a binder, helping to hold the meatballs together.
1/4 cup milk – Adds moisture and richness to the meatballs.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
1 cup bread crumbs – A crucial ingredient for texture, I prefer using panko for a light, crispy finish.
1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives the meatballs a classic Italian flavor.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the garlic flavor throughout the meatballs.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
1/4 teaspoon pepper – Adds a subtle heat that rounds out the flavor profile.

How to Assemble Ground Chicken Meatballs

Making Ground Chicken Meatballs is an enjoyable experience that will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Let’s dive into the steps!

Preheat your oven to 200C/400F. This creates the perfect cooking environment for your meatballs, ensuring they bake evenly.
Line a large baking tray with parchment paper. This prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes for easy cleanup later.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, eggs, milk, garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in tough meatballs.
With lightly wet hands, roll out about twenty meatballs, each about the size of a golf ball. Wetting your hands helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers.
Place the rolled meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced evenly apart. This helps them cook evenly without steaming.
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165F for safety.
Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains juicy.
Serve your Ground Chicken Meatballs with your favorite sauce, over pasta, or simply on their own!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs.
Use a meat thermometer: Ensuring your meatballs reach 165F guarantees they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add red pepper flakes for a kick or fresh herbs for brightness.
Mix in veggies: Consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Change It Up

There are countless ways to personalize your Ground Chicken Meatballs to suit any occasion or preference. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for 4 to 5 days.
Freezing: Transfer cooked meatballs to an airtight container or plastic bag; they’ll last in the freezer for 2 to 3 months.
Pairing: Serve with pasta and marinara sauce for a classic meal, or enjoy them in a sub with melted cheese.
Air Fryer Option: For a quicker option, cook the meatballs in an air fryer at 200C/400F for approximately 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Stovetop Cooking: If you prefer stovetop cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the meatballs for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating them regularly.

Perfect Matches for Ground Chicken Meatballs

When serving Ground Chicken Meatballs, there are many delightful pairings to consider. Here are some of the best:

Spaghetti: A classic pairing, serve your meatballs over spaghetti with marinara sauce for a comforting meal.
Salads: Try them on top of a fresh green salad to add protein and flavor.
Rice: Serve alongside a fluffy rice dish or in a rice bowl with veggies for a wholesome dinner.
Wraps: Place them in a tortilla with your favorite toppings for a delicious wrap.
Appetizer: Serve them as an appetizer at parties, with toothpicks and a dipping sauce.
Kids’ Lunch: Pack them in lunchboxes for a protein-rich, kid-friendly meal!

FAQ

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It has a similar texture and flavor, making it easy to swap out. Just keep in mind that ground turkey can sometimes be a bit drier than ground chicken, so you might want to adjust the amount of milk or add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Your homemade Ground Chicken Meatballs will last in the fridge for about 4 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. They’re perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a quick and easy meal throughout the week. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before refrigerating them to maintain their texture!

Yes, you can freeze Ground Chicken Meatballs! Once they are cooked and cooled, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They should last in the freezer for 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop for a quick meal!

There are many delicious options! You can serve Ground Chicken Meatballs over pasta with marinara sauce, in sub rolls with cheese, or even on a bed of rice or quinoa. They also work wonderfully on their own with a dipping sauce or as part of a salad. Feel free to get creative!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ground Chicken Meatballs are not just a meal; they’re a comforting reminder of home and family. With their savory flavors and tender texture, they make for a versatile dish that can elevate any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s an easy way to bring joy to your table. You’ll find that they become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire!