These chicken meatballs are juicy and full of flavor! Made with ground chicken, herbs, and spices, they are perfect for any meal or snack.
They’re so tasty, you might forget they’re healthy! I love serving them with pasta or in a warm sandwich—easy and scrumptious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! You can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option or even ground beef if you prefer a richer flavor. Make sure to choose a blend that is not too lean to avoid dry meatballs.
Breadcrumbs: I usually use plain breadcrumbs, but you can also use panko for a crunchier texture. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. They work great!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a delicious flavor. If you want to skip it for dietary reasons, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish! If parsley is unavailable, try fresh basil or cilantro for a twist. You can even use dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand; just use one-third of the amount.
Milk: Instead of milk, you can use any plant-based milk if you want to keep it dairy-free. I’ve used almond milk with great results!
How Do I Get My Meatballs to Stay Tender?
The secret to tender chicken meatballs lies in how you mix and handle the ingredients. Overmixing can make them tough. Here’s how to keep them juicy:
- Mix all ingredients gently in a large bowl until just combined. The goal is to evenly distribute the ingredients without breaking down the meat too much.
- Shape your meatballs by rolling them gently in your hands. Avoid packing them too tightly; this keeps them airy and soft.
- Don’t rush the cooking process! Brown the meatballs first, then let them simmer in the broth. This helps keep the insides moist while developing flavors.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a few more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, a splash of milk can help bind it.
Following these tips will help you make wonderfully tender chicken meatballs every time!
How to Make Juicy Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for cooking
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white wine (optional, for sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes for cooking. In total, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced onion, garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and dried oregano if you’re using it. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are well combined. Remember not to overmix—this will help keep your meatballs nice and tender!
2. Shaping the Meatballs:
With clean hands, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for cooking evenly!
3. Browning the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to do this in batches. Brown the meatballs on all sides, which should take about 6-8 minutes in total.
4. Simmering the Meatballs:
After browning, pour in the chicken broth (and add lemon juice or wine if you like!). Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and allow the meatballs to simmer in the broth for about 10 minutes or until they are cooked through. This step keeps the meatballs moist and flavorful.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the lid and let the meatballs cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps to reduce the sauce just a bit, allowing it to coat the meatballs beautifully.
6. Serving:
Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a serving dish, garnish with extra chopped parsley, and serve hot. These delicious chicken meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite!
Now you’re ready to feast on these tender, juicy chicken meatballs with a delightful herb sauce! Happy cooking!
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. It will work similarly in terms of texture and flavor, though your meatballs may have a slightly different taste. Just ensure the turkey isn’t too lean to keep them moist!
Can I Make Meatballs in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time. Just shape the meatballs, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply follow the recipe instructions. You can also freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before cooking!
What Sauce Can I Use with Chicken Meatballs?
These meatballs are versatile! You can serve them in tomato sauce, BBQ sauce, or even a creamy alfredo sauce. For a lighter option, a drizzle of pesto or a simple olive oil and lemon mixture works wonderfully too.
How Can I Tell When the Meatballs Are Cooked Through?
The best way to check if your meatballs are done is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut one in half; it should be cooked all the way through with no pink remaining!
