chicken meatballs recipe - Abbey Badges
Chicken Meatballs Recipe: Juicy & Flavor-Packed Delights You’ll Love
Chicken Meatballs Recipe: Juicy & Flavor-Packed Delights You’ll Love
Chicken meatballs are a staple in kitchens around the world—versatile, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you're craving a quick weeknight dinner or a family-friendly dish perfect for holidays and gatherings, this chicken meatballs recipe delivers every time. Packed with herbs, spices, and a rich sauce, these meatballs are tender, juicy, and irresistibly delicious. Read on to discover a foolproof recipe you can master in under 40 minutes!
Why Chicken Meatballs Are a Must-Try Dish
Understanding the Context
Chicken meatballs stand out because they’re easier to prepare than traditional beef meatballs but deliver a tender, lean protein alternative. Perfect for customization, they can be spiced with Italian, Mediterranean, or Asian-inspired flavors, pair beautifully with marinara or pesto sauce, and serve as a comfortable main or vegetarian-friendly option when made with extra veggies.
Key Benefits:
- Versatile – Serve in pasta, on pizza, in soup, or as tacos.
- Healthier Option – Leaner than beef, still hearty and filling.
- Quick Prep – Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable – Adapt herbs, sauces, and binders to suit your taste.
Simple Chicken Meatballs Recipe – Step-by-Step
Ingredients (Makes about 12 meatballs)
Key Insights
For the meatballs:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast (or a mix with ground thigh for juiciness)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (fine or panko for extra crunch)
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 egg yolk or a splash of milk for extra moisture
For the sauce (Classic Marinara):
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or oregano for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully incorporated—be careful not to overwork the meat to keep meatballs tender. Add egg yolk or milk if you want extra juiciness.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls (about 2–2.5 inches in diameter). Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up—this helps them hold shape.
Final Thoughts
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cook meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) on a lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the meatballs cook, heat olive oil in a saucepan. Sauté onions and garlic until soft and golden. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Stir cooked meatballs into the sauce, coating evenly. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Meatballs
- Use cold ingredients—refrigerated meat and chilled breadcrumbs help shape and prevent meatballs from falling apart.
- Don’t overmix: A gentle blend keeps the texture light and tender.
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture.
- Leftover meatballs reheat beautifully—just add sauce and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Keep Making This Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Chicken meatballs are more than just food—they’re comfort wrapped in flavor. This recipe is designed to be beginner-friendly yet impressive enough for dinner guests. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a small gathering, chicken meatballs adapt to any occasion with minimal effort. Their universal appeal, surprisingly quick prep, and endless pairing possibilities make them a kitchen must-have.
Ready to impress? Try this chicken meatballs recipe today and add a convenient, delicious dish to your weekly rotation. Your taste buds will thank you!