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Juicy ground chicken meatballs served on a rustic plate with herbs

Ground Chicken Meatballs

Juicy, flavorful ground chicken meatballs that are healthier and incredibly versatile. Ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup grated onion
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley or basil optional
  • 1 tbsp milk or yogurt optional
  • Red pepper flakes to taste optional

Optional Add-ins

  • Shredded zucchini or carrots
  • Chopped spinach
  • Sun-dried tomatoes
  • Mozzarella cheese

Instructions
 

Mix Ingredients:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, oregano, and any optional ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Form Meatballs:

  • Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch balls using your hands or a scoop. Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking. Yields about 16–20 meatballs.

Choose Cooking Method:

  • - Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with parchment, and bake meatballs for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • - Air Fry: Preheat to 375°F (190°C), spray the basket, and air fry in batches for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
  • - Pan-Fry: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet, sear meatballs until golden brown on all sides (5–6 mins), then cover and cook until fully done.

Check Doneness:

  • Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Meatballs should be fully white inside with no pink.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Pair with pasta, dips, in subs, or meal prep bowls.

Notes

- Storage: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Use microwave (1–2 min), oven (350°F for 10–12 min), or air fryer (375°F for 5–7 min).
- Variations:
- Italian-style: Add Italian seasoning and serve with marinara.
- Asian-style: Add soy sauce, ginger, and green onion, then serve with teriyaki glaze.
- Buffalo-style: Mix in blue cheese and celery; coat with buffalo sauce.
- Substitutions:
- Use ground turkey or lean beef instead of chicken.
- Swap breadcrumbs with almond meal or oats.
- Use chia egg or flax egg for egg-free.
- Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for dairy-free.