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These juicy ground chicken meatballs are a perfect, kid-approved dinner that’s both delicious and healthy. Made with lean ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, these meatballs are packed with protein and flavor. Whether served with a dipping sauce or as part of a pasta dish, they’re easy to make and will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, they’re baked, making them a healthier alternative to fried options!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 pound minced chicken
½ cup panko crumbs
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 large egg, slightly beaten
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking spray

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spray it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Bread Crumb Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine panko crumbs, milk, kosher salt, garlic powder, egg, and olive oil. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to absorb the liquid and become cohesive.
Make the Meatball Mixture:
Add the ground chicken and Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive meatball mixture.
Shape the Meatballs:
Portion out the mixture into even portions. Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs, aiming for about 18-20 meatballs. Roll them into smooth balls. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
Bake the Meatballs:
Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with non-stick spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. For extra golden meatballs, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Serve:
Serve the meatballs with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard. You can also serve them with pasta or as a meatball sub. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Approx. for the whole recipe)

Calories: 800-900 kcal
Protein: 75-85g
Fat: 45-55g
Carbohydrates: 30-35g

The Benefits of Using Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is often used as a healthier substitute for ground beef in many recipes, and for good reason. It’s naturally lower in fat and calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste or texture. Ground chicken also absorbs seasonings and spices well, which makes it incredibly versatile when used in dishes like meatballs, burgers, or tacos.

In this recipe, ground chicken is the star, providing a tender and juicy meatball that holds up well during baking. The texture of ground chicken works perfectly in meatballs because it’s not as dense as beef, which gives the meatballs a light, airy quality. Additionally, since chicken is relatively mild in flavor, it acts as a great base for the other ingredients, allowing the seasonings to really shine through in the finished dish.

The Importance of Seasoning

While ground chicken itself is mild, the seasoning in these meatballs is what really makes them stand out. A simple combination of kosher salt, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese gives the meatballs an irresistible savory flavor. Parmesan adds a nutty, salty richness that enhances the overall taste, while the garlic powder gives the meatballs that aromatic, familiar punch.

These seasonings are key to making the meatballs flavorful and satisfying without needing a lot of additional ingredients. The balance of salt, garlic, and cheese makes these meatballs taste indulgent without being overly rich, and they pair perfectly with a variety of sauces or sides.

Using Breadcrumbs for Texture

The breadcrumbs in this recipe are essential for creating the right texture in the meatballs. They help bind the ingredients together, ensuring that the meatballs don’t fall apart during baking. Additionally, breadcrumbs give the meatballs a light, fluffy interior, so they’re not too dense or heavy.

In this case, panko breadcrumbs are used, which are coarser than traditional breadcrumbs. This choice adds a bit of extra texture and crunch to the meatballs. When mixed with milk, the breadcrumbs absorb moisture, which helps keep the meatballs tender and juicy on the inside. The combination of crispy exterior and soft, moist interior is what makes these meatballs so satisfying.

Baking: The Healthier Alternative

One of the standout features of these meatballs is that they are baked, not fried. Baking meatballs is a healthier cooking method because it reduces the need for added oils or fats, keeping the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. The heat from the oven cooks the meatballs evenly, creating a golden brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender.

Baking is also a hands-off method, allowing you to prepare the meatballs and then let them cook while you focus on preparing other parts of the meal. The oven temperature of 400°F (200°C) is ideal for getting the meatballs to bake quickly, resulting in crispy exteriors without overcooking the inside. For an extra golden finish, you can turn on the broiler for the last couple of minutes of cooking, which gives the meatballs a slightly crispier surface.

Versatility and Serving Options

One of the great things about these ground chicken meatballs is their versatility. You can serve them in a variety of ways depending on your preferences or dietary needs.

For a classic option, serve the meatballs with a side of pasta and marinara sauce for a comforting, Italian-inspired meal. The juicy, flavorful meatballs are a perfect match for pasta, and the tomato sauce helps balance out the richness of the cheese and meat. Alternatively, you can serve the meatballs as part of a meatball sub, topped with more marinara sauce and melted cheese, for a delicious and hearty sandwich option.

If you’re looking for a lighter meal, these meatballs can also be served with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Their flavor pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making them a versatile option for any meal. Additionally, they’re perfect for dipping, whether you prefer classic marinara, creamy ranch, or a tangy honey mustard sauce. These meatballs can easily be adapted to suit your favorite sauces and side dishes, making them a go-to recipe for all kinds of occasions.

Kid-Friendly and Family Approved

One of the best aspects of these ground chicken meatballs is that they’re kid-friendly. The mild flavor of the chicken, combined with the cheesy, flavorful seasonings, makes them appealing to even picky eaters. Plus, the small, bite-sized portions are easy for little hands to grab and enjoy. The fact that they are baked also makes them easier to prepare and serve, without the mess of frying.

For parents looking to get more protein and vegetables into their kids’ diets, these meatballs can be customized with additional ingredients like finely grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach mixed into the meatball mixture. These added vegetables will blend right in, adding extra nutrients without compromising flavor or texture. It’s an easy way to sneak some healthy ingredients into a dish that the whole family will love.

Making the Recipe Ahead of Time

Another advantage of this ground chicken meatball recipe is that it’s easy to make ahead of time. You can prepare the meatballs earlier in the day and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes the recipe perfect for busy families or for meal prepping. You can also freeze the meatballs for later use, making them a great option for stocking up on quick, healthy meals. Simply freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once they’re solid. When you’re ready to cook them, just bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Health Benefits of Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is a healthier alternative to ground beef and other meats due to its lower fat content. By using ground chicken in this recipe, you’re reducing the amount of saturated fat while still getting a satisfying, protein-packed meal. Ground chicken is also a great source of essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and phosphorus, which are important for maintaining energy levels, promoting healthy red blood cells, and supporting bone health.

Additionally, by baking the meatballs instead of frying them, you’re cutting back on added oils and fats, making this recipe even healthier. The lean chicken, combined with the use of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan, creates a flavorful and balanced dish that’s still light and nutritious.

Conclusion

Juicy ground chicken meatballs are a healthy, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. With lean ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, and a combination of Parmesan and spices, these meatballs are not only easy to make but also full of flavor. Baking the meatballs instead of frying them makes this recipe a lighter alternative to traditional meatball dishes, while still providing that crispy, golden exterior and juicy interior. Whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or as a snack with dipping sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. Their versatility, nutritional benefits, and kid-friendly appeal make them a go-to option for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal.

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