Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and guarantees a tender bite every time, these Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) are your new best friend in the kitchen. Golden brown on the outside, tender and flavorful inside, they’re perfect whether you need a quick appetizer or a fuss-free weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try them, this recipe will sneak its way into your weekly rotation too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a vital role in achieving that heavenly taste and texture that makes these meatballs so irresistible. From the rich parmesan to the crispy panko breadcrumbs, every component is essential for the perfect bite.

• 1 lbs (500 g) chicken mince: Use good quality, 95% lean mince to keep the meatballs juicy without being greasy.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind all the ingredients together and adds moisture for tender meatballs.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps in browning the meatballs beautifully.
• 1/2 cup (55 g) panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add a delightful lightness and crunch.
• 1/2 cup (50 g) parmesan cheese grated: Provides a sharp, savory note that elevates the entire dish.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Injects a punch of aromatic garlic flavor without overpowering.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds depth and a mild sweetness that rounds out the seasoning.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors and seasoning the meat perfectly.
• 1 tsp Italian herb mix or oregano: Brings that classic herbaceous Italian flair that pairs beautifully with chicken.

How to Make Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your fan-forced oven to 170°C (340°F). If you don’t have a fan oven, set it to 180°C (355°F). Line a large baking tray with baking paper so your meatballs won’t stick and you get that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chicken mince, egg, olive oil, panko, parmesan, garlic and onion powder, salt, and Italian herbs. Use your clean hands to mix everything thoroughly; this hands-on step ensures all flavors get evenly distributed and the texture stays tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1 tablespoon-sized balls for consistent cooking and just the right bite. Place them on the prepared baking tray, giving a little space between each meatball so they bake evenly and brown nicely.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, aiming for an internal temperature of 73°C (165°F). The scent will fill your kitchen before you even check, and the juicy texture inside is what makes these meatballs a weekly favorite.

Step 5: Finish with a Sprinkle

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a bit more grated parmesan on top for a fresh, flavorful finish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your taste buds.

How to Serve Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week)

Garnishes

A simple garnish can take your Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs from great to spectacular. Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese melts beautifully over warm meatballs, enhancing their savory richness.

Side Dishes

These meatballs are so versatile! Pair them with a comforting plate of spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce for an easy Italian-inspired dinner. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to brighten up the entire meal. Roasted veggies also complement their hearty flavor perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling a bit adventurous? Serve these Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs on mini skewers as finger food at your next gathering. Or layer them in a toasted sub roll with marinara and melted cheese for a satisfying meatball sandwich. They shine whether plated elegantly or casually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep them as tender and juicy as when freshly baked.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs to make future meals a breeze. Just lay them out on a baking tray in a single layer to freeze completely, then transfer to a zip lock bag. They’ll keep for about two months and are perfect to pull out whenever hunger strikes.

Reheating

Reheat your meatballs in the oven until they’re warmed through to maintain their texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the oven method keeps the outside crisp and the inside juicy—exactly how you want your Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) to taste!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with beef, pork, lamb, or turkey mince if you want to switch things up. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it might vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand?

You can use regular fine breadcrumbs; however, panko gives meatballs that extra light and crispy texture. If using fine crumbs, your meatballs might be a bit denser, but still delicious.

Is it possible to make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture similar while staying gluten-free friendly.

How can I prevent my meatballs from drying out?

Using good quality chicken mince that is about 95% lean helps maintain juiciness. Also, be careful not to overbake; pulling them out once they reach 73°C (165°F) ensures they stay tender and juicy.

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely. Shape your meatballs and keep them refrigerated, covered, for up to a day or freeze as mentioned. Then bake fresh when you’re ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) are truly a kitchen staple that combine convenience with incredible flavor and texture. Whether you’re feeding the kids, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to something wonderful, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Give it a try and see how effortlessly scrumptious weeknight dinners can be!