If you are looking for a dish that combines comfort, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients all baked to perfection, this Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs Recipe is an absolute winner. These tender, juicy meatballs come loaded with fragrant herbs, sharp parmesan, and a lovely hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a weekday dinner or for impressing friends, this recipe brings simple ingredients together into a flavorful, healthy meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating meatballs that are bursting with flavor, moist on the inside, and perfectly crispy on the outside. Each element in this recipe plays a crucial role in the texture and taste – from the Italian seasoning for depth to the parmesan cheese for savory richness.
- 1 pound ground chicken: Use fresh ground chicken for a lean, tender base that absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs: Adds structure and a subtle hint of herbaceous flavor to keep the meatballs moist.
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated): Brings a salty, nutty sharpness that elevates every bite.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder, holding everything together perfectly without making the mixture heavy.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A vibrant blend of dried herbs that infuses authentic Italian taste effortlessly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and deepens the aromatics.
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor and helps balance the herbs and cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives just the right amount of subtle heat and spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a perfect little kick for those who love a hint of spice.
- 1/8 cup green onions: Fresh and crisp, they bring brightness and a mild oniony crunch.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile with a natural pungency.
- 3 tablespoons parsley (chopped, divided): Adds vibrant color and a fresh herbal note.
- 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Keeps the meatballs moist and adds a lovely richness during baking.
How to Make Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, get your oven nice and hot at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it preheats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures the meatballs won’t stick and helps them get that perfect crispy edge without sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground chicken, Italian breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together, just until combined. It’s important not to overmix here so your meatballs remain tender and juicy.
Step 3: Add Fresh Ingredients
Next, fold in your green onions, minced garlic, two tablespoons of chopped parsley, and one tablespoon of olive oil. This infusion of fresh herbs and garlic will really awaken the meatballs with vibrant colors and lively flavors, making every bite exciting.
Step 4: Shape the Meatballs
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out your mixture and roll it gently with clean hands into uniform meatballs. Placing them evenly on your parchment-lined baking sheets gives them room to cook evenly and develop a gorgeous texture.
Step 5: Brush with Olive Oil
Brush each meatball with the remaining olive oil to help form a beautiful golden crust as they bake. This final coating keeps the outside perfectly moist, adding a richness that makes them simply irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop those meatballs into the oven for 20 minutes, then flip them so each side gets equal love and cook for an additional 10 minutes. The goal is an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they’re fully cooked but still juicy and tender.
How to Serve Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes really elevate these baked Italian chicken meatballs. Sprinkle extra freshly chopped parsley for a splash of green and brightness. A light dusting of parmesan can add an extra cheesy hit, and don’t hesitate to drizzle with a dash of spicy marinara or balsamic glaze for an unexpected flavor twist.
Side Dishes
These meatballs are insanely versatile when it comes to sides. Pair them with zesty spaghetti or creamy polenta, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a lighter meal. A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is also a fantastic complement that balances out the heartiness of the meatballs.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to wow friends or family? Arrange the meatballs on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like marinara, pesto, or even a tangy yogurt dip. You can also stuff them into crusty rolls with provolone and sautéed peppers for a scrumptious meatball sub experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep them chilled promptly after cooking to maintain freshness and safety. They are great for quick lunches or adding to pasta dishes throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep these delightful bites on hand for longer, freeze them on a baking sheet first until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Properly stored, they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place your meatballs on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350-degree oven for 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them moist and prevents drying out like microwave reheating can sometimes do.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the Italian breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats to keep the same tender texture without gluten.
Is it necessary to use ground chicken?
While ground chicken keeps these meatballs lean and light, ground turkey or even a mix of beef and pork can also be delicious alternatives.
Can I add sauce before baking?
This recipe is designed for baking the meatballs dry, but you can transfer cooked meatballs into a sauce afterward to simmer briefly and soak up even more flavor.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which ensures they are safe and perfectly cooked through.
Can I make smaller or larger meatballs?
Definitely! Just adjust the baking time accordingly — smaller meatballs will cook faster, larger ones might need a few extra minutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a great batch of homemade meatballs, and this Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs Recipe hits all the marks with its incredible flavor, ease of preparation, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or special occasion, these meatballs are guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give them a try and watch everyone go back for seconds!
Print
Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 26 meatballs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These flavorful Chicken Meatballs are a simple and delicious recipe featuring ground chicken mixed with Italian seasonings, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection with a crispy outside, these meatballs make a great appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/8 cup green onions (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 tablespoons parsley (chopped, divided)
For Cooking
- 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400° F to prepare for baking the meatballs evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare baking sheets: Line one 13×18 baking sheet or two 9×13 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix base ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently with clean hands or a spoon until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the chopped green onions, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix until evenly distributed but do not overwork the mixture.
- Form meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the meat mixture and shape into meatballs with clean hands. Place the formed meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet(s).
- Baste meatballs: Use a pastry brush to coat each meatball with approximately 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil to encourage browning and moisture retention during baking.
- Bake the meatballs: Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes in the preheated oven. After 20 minutes, carefully flip each meatball and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165° F, ensuring they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep the texture tender and moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165° F for safety.
- These meatballs can be served with marinara sauce, pasta, or as a protein-packed snack.
- If preferred, you can freeze uncooked meatballs for later baking.
- Parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
