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Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs

Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs
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Baked Italian Chicken Meatballs are a quick, healthy, and flavorful recipe featuring lean ground chicken breast combined with classic Italian herbs, Parmesan cheese, and simple ingredients. These tender and juicy meatballs are baked to golden perfection, offering a mess-free cooking experience ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or versatile serving options like pasta, subs, or appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs/almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or substitute with fresh basil or rosemary)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (blend of oregano, basil, thyme)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray for baking sheet

Optional Variations

  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or dash of cayenne pepper for spice
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese for cheesy meatballs
  • 1/4 cup finely grated zucchini or carrots for extra moisture and nutrients

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for quick and even baking.
  2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat to keep meatballs tender. Optionally, add crushed red pepper flakes, shredded cheese, or grated vegetables if desired.
  3. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter to ensure uniform cooking.
  4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil. Place the meatballs spaced evenly apart on the sheet to allow for even baking and crust development.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the meatballs are golden brown on the outside.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sauce—such as marinara, pesto, or Alfredo—or use as desired in subs, sliders, or appetizers.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach 165°F (75°C) without drying out.
  • Form uniform-sized meatballs for even cooking.
  • Chill formed meatballs briefly before baking to help maintain shape.
  • Adding a splash of milk or grated onion can increase moisture for juicier meatballs.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze meatballs on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave on medium power to avoid drying.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken meatballs, Italian meatballs, healthy meatballs, easy dinner, meal prep, gluten-free meatballs

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/baked-italian-chicken-meatballs/