Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs

This Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs recipe creates tender, flavorful chicken meatballs made with pantry staples and baked for a healthy, convenient meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, pasta dishes, grain bowls, and family-friendly cooking. These oven-baked chicken meatballs offer a dependable texture, simple preparation, and versatile seasoning options for quick and nutritious homemade meals.

Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup gluten-free panko-style bread crumbs
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Scant 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 lb ground chicken (not 99% lean breast)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper or foil sprayed with nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, olive oil, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the ground chicken and mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. Divide the mixture into 16 equal portions by dividing into quarters, then each quarter into four pieces. Roll each portion into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 16–18 minutes, until the meatballs reach at least 165°F. For a more tender texture, bake until they reach 200°F, which typically takes about 16 minutes depending on the oven.
6. If using 99% lean ground chicken breast, bake only to 165°F to prevent dryness.

---

Tips

• Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
• Use ground chicken with some fat for better moisture and texture.
• Lightly oil your hands when rolling meatballs to prevent sticking.
• A digital thermometer ensures perfectly cooked meatballs every time.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use regular panko if gluten isn’t a concern.
• Substitute ground turkey for chicken with similar results.
• Add grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
• Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs such as basil or parsley.

FAQs

Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes. Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes—this recipe is already dairy-free as long as your bread crumbs are dairy-free.

How do I prevent dry meatballs?
Use ground chicken with some fat and avoid overbaking.

Serving Suggestions

• Toss with marinara and pasta.
• Serve with rice and roasted vegetables.
• Pair with a creamy sauce for appetizers.
• Add to soups or grain bowls for protein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Bakes quickly for easy weeknight meals.
• Tender, flavorful texture without frying.
• Versatile for pasta dishes, bowls, or meal prep.