7 Best Chicken Meatball Recipes for Delicious Meals

When it comes to delicious and versatile meals, chicken meatballs are a great choice. They can be cooked in various styles, making them suitable for different cuisines and tastes. In this article, I will share my top seven chicken meatball recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor.

Chicken meatballs can be a fantastic option for family dinners, meal prep, or as appetizers for gatherings. With simple ingredients, you can create tasty dishes that everyone will enjoy. Whether you are looking for comfort food or a healthier alternative, these recipes will cater to your needs.

1. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo chicken meatballs are a flavorful twist on traditional meatballs. They combine ground chicken with spicy buffalo sauce for a tasty dish that’s perfect for appetizers or game day.

Making buffalo chicken meatballs is quite easy. I enjoy preparing these tasty bites because they come together quickly and require simple ingredients.

To make them, I follow these steps:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, I combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, and 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce.
2. Shape Meatballs: Using my hands, I form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Bake: I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet. They bake for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
4. Coat in Sauce: Once out of the oven, I toss the meatballs in extra buffalo sauce for added flavor.

These buffalo chicken meatballs are spicy, savory, and great for sharing!

2. Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Meatballs

Teriyaki glazed chicken meatballs are a savory dish made with ground chicken and a sweet, soy-based sauce. This recipe is simple and yields flavorful results.

To make these meatballs, I start with a few basic ingredients, including ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and teriyaki sauce. Mixing them together is straightforward.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. In a bowl, I combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce.
2. I mix everything until it’s well combined, then form the mixture into small meatballs.
3. Next, I heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
4. I place the meatballs in the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them frequently until they are golden brown.
5. Finally, I drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce on top before serving.

These meatballs pair well with rice or vegetables and make for a delicious meal. They can also be used as a tasty appetizer.

3. Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs

Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs are a fresh and flavorful dish. The bright taste of lemon, combined with herbs, adds an exciting twist to traditional meatballs. They are easy to make and perfect for a family meal.

To make these meatballs, I gather ground chicken, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic, and herbs like parsley and basil. Mixing these ingredients creates a tasty mixture. I shape them into small balls for even cooking.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, and the zest of 1 lemon.
3. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 cup of chopped parsley. Mix well.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

These Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs can be served with pasta, salad, or even in a sandwich. They are sure to be a hit!

4. Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

Parmesan chicken meatballs are a delicious and easy dish to prepare. They combine ground chicken with Parmesan cheese for added flavor. These meatballs are juicy and perfect for a variety of meals.

Making these meatballs is straightforward. I usually use simple ingredients, which I often have on hand. The flavor of the Parmesan enhances the overall taste without being overpowering.

Here’s how I make them:

1. In a bowl, mix 1 pound of ground chicken, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

These meatballs can be served with marinara sauce or enjoyed on their own. They are a great option for meal prep or quick dinners. Enjoy the tasty combination of chicken and Parmesan in this simple recipe!

5. Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs

Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs combine tender chicken with rich coconut milk and aromatic spices. These meatballs offer a unique blend of flavors that are both comforting and exciting.

Making these meatballs is quite easy. I typically spend about 30 minutes in total, including preparation and cooking time.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Mix Ingredients: I combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, ginger, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
2. Shape Meatballs: I form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter.
3. Prepare Sauce: In a pan, I heat coconut milk with curry paste and a splash of lime juice, stirring until it’s smooth.
4. Cook Meatballs: I add the meatballs to the sauce and simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until fully cooked.
5. Serve: I serve the meatballs with rice or noodles, garnished with fresh cilantro.

This recipe not only tastes delicious but is also straightforward to make. It’s great for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

6. Pesto Chicken Meatballs

Pesto chicken meatballs are a flavorful twist on traditional meatballs. They combine ground chicken with pesto sauce, giving them a fresh taste that’s both herby and rich.

Making these meatballs is quite simple. I appreciate how easy they are to prepare, and they make a perfect weeknight meal.

Here are the steps I follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix 1 pound of ground chicken with 1/2 cup of pesto, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 beaten egg.
3. Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.

These meatballs are versatile. I often serve them with pasta, in sandwiches, or just on their own as a snack. They are a great addition to my recipe collection!

7. BBQ Chicken Meatballs

BBQ chicken meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs. They are made from ground chicken mixed with seasonings and BBQ sauce. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

To make BBQ chicken meatballs, I follow these simple steps:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, I combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 beaten egg, and 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce.
2. Form the Meatballs: I shape the mixture into meatballs, each about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Cook: I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet. They bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
4. Add More Sauce: After baking, I brush extra BBQ sauce on top of the meatballs for added flavor.

These meatballs are great as an appetizer or served over rice or in a sandwich. They are simple, tasty, and perfect for any occasion.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Meatballs?

Chicken meatballs offer several important nutritional advantages. They are a protein-rich food, providing essential building blocks for muscle and overall health. Additionally, they contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that support various bodily functions.

How Much Protein Do Chicken Meatballs Contain?

I find chicken meatballs to be an excellent source of protein. A standard serving can provide around 20-25 grams of protein, depending on the recipe and size of the meatballs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, making it especially important for active individuals.

In addition, protein helps to keep me feeling full longer, which can contribute to better weight management. Lean chicken meat is lower in fat compared to red meats, making it a healthier option. This means I can enjoy delicious meatballs without the extra calories and saturated fats often found in other meat varieties.

What Vitamins and Minerals Are Found in Chicken Meatballs?

Chicken meatballs are also packed with various vitamins and minerals. They are particularly rich in B vitamins, like B6 and B12, which support energy production and brain health. Each serving can help boost my energy levels throughout the day.

Moreover, chicken provides essential minerals such as phosphorus and selenium. Phosphorus is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, while selenium plays a significant role in protecting my cells from damage. This combination of nutrients makes chicken meatballs a smart choice for a balanced diet.

What Are the Best Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken Meatballs?

I find that the right cooking techniques can make a big difference in the texture and flavor of chicken meatballs. Two popular methods are baking and frying, each offering unique benefits.

How Does Baking Affect Chicken Meatballs?

Baking is a simple and healthy way to cook chicken meatballs. I usually preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, I prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Next, I place the meatballs on the sheet, making sure they are spaced apart so they cook evenly. Baking time typically ranges from 20 to 25 minutes. I like to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.

This method is great for creating a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist. Also, I appreciate that baking requires little oil, making it a lower-fat option.

How Does Frying Impact the Texture and Flavor of Chicken Meatballs?

Frying can add a delicious crunch to chicken meatballs. For this method, I heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the meatballs, spacing them out to prevent sticking.

Cooking generally takes about 8 to 10 minutes. I turn them occasionally to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. A key tip is to avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can reduce the cooking temperature and lead to steaming instead of frying.

I prefer frying when I want a quick, rich flavor and crisp texture. Just be sure to drain the meatballs on paper towels to remove any excess oil.