Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs – Easy, Healthy & Packed with Flavor

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Introduction

Hi friends! If there’s one recipe that has earned a permanent spot in my weekly meal rotation, it’s these Baked Chicken Meatballs. They’re juicy, tender, full of flavor, and honestly — a total lifesaver on busy weeknights.

I still remember the first time I made them. I had some ground chicken sitting in the fridge and wanted something lighter than beef meatballs but just as satisfying. So, I mixed in some fresh herbs, grated parmesan, and a touch of breadcrumbs, baked them until golden, and… wow. My family devoured the entire tray in minutes!

Since then, these Baked Chicken Meatballs have become my go-to for everything — pasta dinners, rice bowls, meal prep, and even as fun party appetizers with dipping sauces. They’re oven-baked (so no frying mess!), packed with protein, and come together in under 30 minutes.

Let’s dive in and make a batch together. 🧑‍🍳✨

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and you can easily adapt them to suit your dietary needs.

🐔 Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing or drizzling before baking)

🌿 Substitution Ideas:

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Dairy-Free: Omit the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Egg-Free: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
  • Low-Carb/Keto: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
  • Herbs & Spices: Feel free to experiment — dill, basil, or even a dash of chili flakes for spice.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Baked Chicken Meatballs is incredibly simple, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the best texture and flavor 👇

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Sheet

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

👉 Pro Tip: A parchment-lined tray ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Use clean hands or a fork to gently mix everything until just combined.

👉 Important: Don’t overmix! Overworking the mixture can make the meatballs tough. Mix just enough so the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

  • Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls (about the size of a golf ball).
  • Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

👉 Pro Tip: Lightly oil your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking while rolling.

Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil

  • Lightly brush or drizzle the meatballs with olive oil.
  • This helps them achieve a beautiful golden crust while baking — no frying required!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until they’re golden on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

👉 Optional: For a crispier exterior, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

📝 Extra Tips

Here’s how to make your Baked Chicken Meatballs extra delicious and versatile:

🍝 Serving Suggestions

  • Classic: Serve with spaghetti and marinara sauce for a lighter twist on spaghetti and meatballs.
  • Bowls: Add to grain bowls with quinoa, roasted veggies, and tahini dressing.
  • Appetizers: Skewer the meatballs and serve with a dipping trio — BBQ, honey mustard, or tzatziki.
  • Subs: Pile into toasted rolls with marinara and melted mozzarella for an epic meatball sub.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: These meatballs freeze beautifully! Place cooled meatballs on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick option. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first.

🌈 Variations & Add-Ons

  • Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
  • Asian-Inspired: Swap Italian seasoning for soy sauce, ginger, and scallions, then glaze with teriyaki sauce.
  • Cheesy Center: Push a small cube of mozzarella into the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.
  • Veggie Boost: Mix in finely grated zucchini or carrots to sneak in extra veggies (just squeeze out the moisture first!).

📊 Nutritional Information (per serving)

(Based on Feel Good Foodie – approximate)

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Sugar: 0 g

❓ FAQ Section

1. How long does it take to make Baked Chicken Meatballs?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes — 10 minutes for prep and shaping, and 18–20 minutes for baking.

2. Can I substitute chicken with another meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully for a similar lean option. You can also use beef or pork — just adjust seasoning to match the meat’s flavor.

3. Can I freeze Baked Chicken Meatballs?

Yes, they freeze very well. Once baked and cooled, freeze them on a tray, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

4. Can I make them ahead of time?

Definitely. You can shape the meatballs and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours, or freeze them raw and bake when needed (adding a few extra minutes to the cook time).

5. How do I keep them juicy and not dry?

The key is not overmixing the meat, not overbaking, and including ingredients like egg and parmesan, which help retain moisture. Baking at a moderate temperature ensures even cooking without drying them out.

🏁 Conclusion

And there you have it — juicy, flavorful Baked Chicken Meatballs that are as easy as they are delicious. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or planning a party spread, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

I’d love to hear how your Baked Chicken Meatballs turn out! If you give this recipe a try, leave a comment below, share a photo, or tag me on social media. Your creations make my day. 💛

Happy cooking and meatball making! 🍽️✨