Why You’ll Love This Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs
These Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs are a game-changer for your dinner routine. They come together in just 40 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic evenings. The blend of herbs creates a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground chicken: The star of the show! It’s lean and packed with protein, making it a healthier choice.
Breadcrumbs: These add texture and help bind the meatballs together. You can use regular or whole wheat for a healthier twist.
Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds a rich, savory flavor that elevates the dish.
Fresh parsley: This herb brings a pop of color and freshness. Feel free to substitute with basil or cilantro if you prefer.
Garlic powder: For that aromatic kick! It’s a convenient way to infuse flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Onion powder: Adds depth to the flavor profile, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that gives these meatballs their signature taste.
Dried basil: Another essential herb that enhances the Italian flair of the dish.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Egg: This acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape while baking.
Marinara sauce: Perfect for dipping! It adds a delicious, tangy contrast to the savory meatballs.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes to the mixture. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey works just as well. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs
Creating these Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a plateful of deliciousness ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
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Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F. This is crucial for even cooking. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little trick makes cleanup a snap!
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything well. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
Step 3: Add the Egg
Now, it’s time to incorporate the egg into your mixture. This helps bind the meatballs together, ensuring they hold their shape while baking. Mix until everything is fully combined. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture feels cohesive and slightly sticky.
Step 4: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Don’t worry about being perfect; a little variation adds character! Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re evenly spaced. This allows them to cook evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Meatballs
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the meatballs to be golden brown and cooked through. This step ensures they’re juicy and flavorful, just the way we like them.
Step 6: Serve with Marinara Sauce
Once they’re done, take the meatballs out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping. This adds a delicious touch to your meal, making it even more enjoyable!
Tips for Success
Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs; it makes shaping easier and quicker.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this keeps them tender.
For extra flavor, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes before forming the meatballs.
Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F internally.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Baking sheet: A standard sheet works, but a rimmed one prevents spills.
Parchment paper: For easy cleanup; aluminum foil is a good alternative.
Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do; a stand mixer can save time.
Cookie scoop: Helps shape uniform meatballs; your hands work just fine too!
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a zesty twist.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in some mozzarella cheese for a gooey surprise in the center of each meatball.
Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative for a delicious meat-free version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light, balanced meal.
Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up the marinara sauce.
A glass of red wine complements the Italian flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color.
Present on a rustic wooden board for a charming touch.
FAQs about Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. It’s leaner and still delivers delicious flavor in these Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
These Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, but you can also serve them over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the mixture. It’ll give your meatballs a delightful heat without overpowering the Italian flavors!
Final Thoughts
Cooking these Baked Italian Herb Chicken Meatballs is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories. The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these meatballs are sure to impress. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. Happy cooking!
Delicious and flavorful baked chicken meatballs infused with Italian herbs, perfect for a quick meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg
1/4 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Add the egg to the mixture and mix until everything is well combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
You can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken for a leaner option.
