Are you looking for a dish that is both delicious and versatile? Look no further than chicken meatballs! Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, these meatballs can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in pasta. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that delights the taste buds and impresses your guests. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 3 meatballs) contains approximately 220 calories, 14g protein, 10g fat, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
- Once cooked, remove meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve the meatballs with warm marinara sauce.
- Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground chicken with turkey or lean beef for a different flavor. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for a gluten-free version. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can replace parsley for a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or as a topping for salads. They also make great appetizers when served with dipping sauces like marinara or barbecue sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. For longer storage, freeze meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
- Make sure to use a thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Let meatballs rest after baking for better flavor absorption.
- Do not skip on seasoning; flavor is key!
- Use a light hand when forming meatballs; too much pressure can make them dense.
- Try not to make them too big; uniform sizes ensure even cooking.
Helpful Tips
- For added moisture, include a tablespoon of olive oil in the mixture.
- Experiment with spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.
- Consider baking in a muffin tin for perfectly shaped meatballs.
- Serve with fresh basil for an aromatic touch.
FAQs
Can I make chicken meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This can save time on busy weeknights and allows flavors to meld.
What can I serve with chicken meatballs?
Chicken meatballs are versatile and can be served with pasta, rice, or even on their own with dipping sauces. They also work well in sandwiches or as part of a charcuterie board.
Can I freeze cooked chicken meatballs?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken meatballs freeze well. Just allow them to cool, then place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
How long do chicken meatballs take to cook?
Chicken meatballs typically take about 20-25 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C), or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What is the best way to reheat chicken meatballs?
The best way to reheat chicken meatballs is in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat with a bit of sauce. This keeps them moist and prevents drying out.
Conclusion
Chicken meatballs are a delightful and flexible dish that everyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can serve them in numerous ways. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, these savory meatballs are sure to please. Give them a try today!
Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
- Once cooked, remove meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve the meatballs with warm marinara sauce.
- Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
