Are you looking for a tasty and simple recipe for chicken meatballs that your family and friends will love? There’s nowhere else to look! This is a really wonderful recipe that’s also quite easy to follow. These chicken meatballs make a fantastic meal for a special occasion or are ideal for a weeknight supper.
Ingredients
To make these chicken meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper should all be combined in a big mixing basin.
- Stir everything until thoroughly mixed. Shape the mixture into little meatballs with a diameter of about an inch using your hands.
- Arrange the meatballs onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
- Set oven temperature to 400°F, or 200°C.
- The meatballs should be cooked through and golden brown after 20 to 25 minutes of baking in a preheated oven.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil while the meatballs are baking.
- To the skillet, add the dried basil, red pepper flakes, marinara sauce, and chicken broth. Mix everything together.
- Give the sauce a good ten minutes to simmer so that the flavors can combine.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the meatballs to the skillet with the sauce after they have finished baking.
- Toss the meatballs gently in the sauce.
- Give the meatballs five more minutes to boil in the sauce.
Serve your delicious chicken meatballs over spaghetti, rice, or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Meatballs
Creating the perfect chicken meatballs is easier than you think. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and parsley add a lot of flavor to your meatballs. Don’t skimp on these ingredients.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
- Test a Small Batch: Before baking all the meatballs, cook a small one to check the seasoning. This way, you can adjust the salt and spices to your liking.
- Bake, Don’t Fry: Baking the meatballs is healthier and ensures they cook evenly. Plus, it’s less messy than frying.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Meatballs: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Chicken Meatballs: Stuff a small cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each meatball for a gooey, cheesy surprise.
- Herbed Chicken Meatballs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or cilantro for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the chicken meatballs over your favorite pasta with a generous amount of sauce.
- Pair them with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Make a meatball sub sandwich with melted provolone cheese and marinara sauce for a delicious lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Freeze Chicken Meatballs?
Yes, you can! After baking, let the meatballs cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or a skillet with sauce.
2. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken and will work just as well in this recipe. It may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.
3. What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as a substitute for breadcrumbs. You can also use oatmeal that has been finely ground in a food processor.
4. How Do I Prevent the Meatballs from Falling Apart?
Make sure to finely chop the onions and garlic so they mix well with the ground chicken. The egg and breadcrumbs act as binders, so don’t skip these ingredients. Also, avoid overmixing the meatball mixture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional value for a serving of these delicious chicken meatballs:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
These delicious and easy chicken meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your household. With their flavorful blend of herbs and spices, they make for a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress. Give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Enjoy your cooking, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy eating!