Name: Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground chicken; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 small sweet onion or white onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 2 large eggs; 4 medium garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup finely chopped Italian parsley; 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 1 tsp seasoned salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp onion powder

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 25 reviews

If you are looking for a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make dinner option, this Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe is absolutely for you. Crafted from tender ground chicken mixed with savory herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of garlic, these meatballs come out perfectly tender and packed with flavor every single time. Baking instead of frying means less mess and a healthier twist without compromising on taste. Whether you’re serving them up as a family meal, game day appetizer, or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, these meatballs never disappoint and are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of ingredients neatly organized on a white marbled surface. At the top left is a rectangular block of pink ground meat with its stringy texture visible. To the right, six brown eggs sit tightly together in a white carton. Moving downward, small clear glass bowls hold varying ingredients: a mix of green and red dried herbs, finely minced pale yellow garlic, light beige powder, ground black pepper, and fresh vibrant green chopped herbs. Larger white bowls contain finely chopped white onions, pale cream grated cheese, and light brown breadcrumbs. In the bottom right corner, a small glass pitcher holds white milk. Each ingredient is arranged in a clean and orderly way, filling the scene with a mix of soft and textured elements. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect texture and balanced flavor in your meatballs. From the light crunch of panko to the fresh brightness of parsley and the rich umami of Parmesan, every component adds something special.

2 lbs ground chicken: The lean and tender base for moist meatballs with mild flavor that soaks up seasonings beautifully.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds a light, airy texture that keeps meatballs tender without heaviness.
1 small sweet or white onion finely diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the mix.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a savory, nutty richness for extra umami punch.
1/4 cup whole milk: Moisturizes the breadcrumbs to keep meatballs juicy and soft.
1 Tbsp olive oil: Adds a gentle fruity note and helps bind ingredients together.
2 large eggs: Acts as a natural binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape beautifully.
4 medium garlic cloves minced: Offers a fragrant punch of aromatic flavor without overpowering.
1/4 cup finely chopped Italian parsley: Freshens and brightens, giving a lovely herbal lift.
2 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A classic aromatic blend that brings Mediterranean flair.
1 tsp seasoned salt: Balances and enhances other flavors with a hint of herbal seasoning.
1 tsp black pepper: Adds gentle heat and earthiness that rounds out the taste.
1 tsp onion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor subtly for a more savory finish.

How to Make Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil that has raised edges to catch any drips, then spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This simple prep guarantees your meatballs will bake evenly and come off the pan easily after cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine your ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, diced onion, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, olive oil, eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Use your hands or a fork to mix gently but thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor and the meatballs stay moist.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Use a small scoop or a tablespoon to portion the meat mixture into uniform 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet spaced approximately 1 inch apart so that air can circulate around each meatball for even cooking. If you are making multiple batches, chilling the mixture between portions helps keep the meatballs firm and easier to shape.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your tray to the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The meatballs are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F and they are golden lightly on the outside. Baking locks in juices and flavor without extra oil, producing tender bites that are simply irresistible.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe

The image is a four-part collage showing the step-by-step process of making meatballs. In the first part, a clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with raw ground meat, two raw eggs, chopped green herbs, minced garlic, and various spices, with a wooden spoon and a green-striped cloth nearby and eggshells on the side. The second part shows a white tray lined with shiny foil on the same surface, with evenly spaced raw meatballs arranged in four rows and four columns, with a woman’s hand holding a pair of metal tongs picking up one meatball. The third part captures the tray before cooking, with some raw meatballs that have a soft, pink texture and visible green herbs. In the last part, the meatballs on the foil-lined white tray appear cooked, showing a golden-brown color and firmer texture, still arranged neatly on the tray. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves on top to add a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. A dusting of grated Parmesan over the hot meatballs just before serving adds a final savory boost that makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

These meatballs shine alongside classic pasta tossed in marinara or a light garlic butter sauce. Roasted vegetables, a crunchy Caesar salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes also pair beautifully, balancing the rich flavors with complementary textures and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe as sliders on mini hoagie rolls with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Alternatively, skewer them with cherry tomatoes and basil for a charming party platter or add them into soups and stews for hearty meals any day of the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool cooked meatballs to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinner additions during a busy week.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the meatballs on a tray in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They maintain excellent flavor and texture for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy homemade convenience whenever you crave them.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated meatballs gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave covered in short intervals to prevent drying out. You can also simmer them in sauce on the stove for an extra moist and flavorful experience.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully and will produce meatballs with a similarly mild flavor and tender texture. Just be mindful of the fat content as it can vary.

How do I prevent meatballs from drying out when baking?

The key is to use the milk and breadcrumbs in the mixture to retain moisture, avoid overmixing, and bake at the right temperature for the correct amount of time to lock in juiciness.

Can I add spice to the Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe?

Yes! Adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture introduces a lovely heat that complements the herbs nicely without overpowering the dish.

Is it okay to substitute regular breadcrumbs for panko?

Definitely. Regular or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs can be swapped in, but panko breadcrumbs tend to give a lighter, airier texture which keeps meatballs fluffier.

Can these meatballs be cooked in a skillet instead of baking?

You can pan-fry them, but baking is preferred for an easier cleanup and a healthier approach without excess oil. Baking also promotes even cooking and consistent texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a great meatball, and this Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe hits the mark every time. It’s a simple, wholesome dish you can easily customize and rely on for a delicious meal anytime. Dive in and enjoy making it your own—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!

Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need