These baked chicken meatballs are the perfect combination of healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make. Made with lean ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and Panko breadcrumbs, these meatballs are baked to perfection for a healthier alternative to fried versions. They’re a great addition to any meal, whether paired with pasta, served with marinara sauce, or enjoyed on their own as a protein-packed snack. Ideal for meal prep, these low-carb chicken meatballs are also gluten-free when using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Easy to make and customizable, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or as an appetizer for gatherings.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken
1 large egg
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Form the Meatballs
Scoop out the mixture and roll it into evenly sized meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Tips

Evenly Sized Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop to ensure your meatballs are all the same size, ensuring even cooking.
Check for Doneness: To check if they’re cooked through, insert a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Moisture: If your meatballs feel too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water to the mixture for extra moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of Panko breadcrumbs to make these meatballs gluten-free.
Cheese: Swap the Parmesan for another type of cheese, such as mozzarella or Pecorino Romano, for a different flavor.
Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for added freshness.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and form the meatballs, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze baked chicken meatballs?
Absolutely! After baking, let the meatballs cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat by baking from frozen.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground chicken in this recipe with no problem.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the baked chicken meatballs with a side of marinara sauce and pasta for a classic Italian meal.
Pair with roasted vegetables or a green salad for a healthy and balanced dinner.
Serve with toothpicks as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and only 20 minutes of baking time make this a go-to recipe for busy nights.
Healthy and Flavorful: Made with lean ground chicken and seasoned with flavorful herbs and Parmesan, these meatballs are both nutritious and tasty.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.