Craving a delicious, healthy, and versatile meal that fits into your busy lifestyle? Look no further than these Best Anytime Baked Chicken Meatballs! Forget the greasy frying pan; we’re baking these beauties to golden perfection, locking in flavor and keeping things light. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is your ticket to easy, satisfying meals any day of the week.
Why Baked Chicken Meatballs?
Let’s face it, traditional meatballs can be messy and time-consuming. Baking offers a healthier alternative, eliminating the need for excess oil and simplifying cleanup. Plus, chicken is a lean protein that’s perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. These baked chicken meatballs are:
- Healthy: Lower in fat than fried meatballs.
- Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward baking.
- Versatile: Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, salads, or as appetizers.
- Flavorful: Customizable with your favorite spices and herbs.
- Time-Saving: Bake a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
Time to get cooking! Follow along for the super simple recipe to make these life-saver Anytime Baked Chicken Meatballs.
The Recipe: Best Anytime Baked Chicken Meatballs
Yields: 24 Time Coast: 20 minutes cooking: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of lean ground chicken
- One big egg, whisked gently
- Half a cup of ordinary or panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of optionally grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of onion, chopped finely
- Two minced garlic cloves
- Two tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley
- One teaspoon of oregano, dried
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt One or two tablespoons of chicken broth or milk, if necessary
Instructions:
- Set the oven’s temperature to 400°F (200°C). Put parchment paper on a baking pan.
- Mix the ingredients: Ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if used) should all be combined in a big bowl.
- Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the recipe ingredients, mixing just until they are fully incorporated. Overmixing can negatively affect the final texture of your dish. Do not overmix, since this may cause the meatballs to become tough. Add a tablespoon or two of milk or chicken broth to the mixture to moisten it if it is too dry.
- To form the meatballs, shape the prepared mixture into uniform 1-inch balls using your hands or a small scoop for consistent cooking. Next, arrange these meatballs on a prepared baking sheet, ensuring a little space between each to allow for even heat circulation and browning during baking. Bake in a preheated oven until they are cooked through and have achieved a golden-brown color, typically taking 25 to 30 minutes, and always ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached for food safety.
- Serving Suggestions: Allow Meatballs to Cool Slightly Before Serving: For the best taste and texture, let the baked meatballs cool down a bit
Advice & Modifications:
Add a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes. For those who enjoy a bit of warmth, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the recipe.
Elevate the Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Consider incorporating a selection of aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, or fragrant basil into your recipe for an extra layer of taste.
Gluten-Free: Make use of breadcrumbs that are gluten-free.
Toss the cooked meatballs in a creamy pesto or your preferred marinara sauce to make it saucy.
Efficiently Freeze Meatballs for Later: To best preserve your meatballs for future meals, begin by arranging them on a baking sheet and baking them according to your recipe. It’s crucial to let the cooked meatballs cool completely. Then, place the cooled meatballs in a single layer in your freezer to prevent clumping. Once they are thoroughly frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer bag for streamlined storage and effortless weeknight dinners.
Serving Recommendations:
Offer your favorite pasta shapes and sauces for a personalized and delicious pasta night experience.
Assembling Meatball Subs: To create delicious meatball subs, spoon warm marinara sauce and layer melted cheese into split hoagie rolls.
Salad Topper: To increase the protein content of a fresh salad, add these.
Serve appetizers with dipping sauces and toothpicks.
Meal Prep: Make a big quantity and keep it in the refrigerator for easy meals all week long.
For busy people and families, these Best Anytime Baked Chicken Meatballs are revolutionary. They are very adaptable, tasty, and healthful. Thus, preheat your oven and prepare to savor a filling meal that is appropriate for any setting! Remember to tag us in your social media posts and share your work!