Chicken Meatballs So Good Theyll Fly the Coop
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Ever stare into the fridge, totally blank, and think, "What on earth am I gonna make?" Well, let me tell you about my absolute go-to: Chicken Meatballs : So Good, They'll Fly the Coop! Trust me, these aren't your average bland, boring meatballs.
They are juicy, packed with flavor, and super versatile.
These beauties are kinda inspired by classic Italian American comfort food. Think all those comforting flavors, but a bit lighter. It is an easy meatball recipe , meaning it is not too complicated.
The whole thing takes about an hour. You will end up with around 24 meatballs, perfect for a family dinner or some serious snacking!
Why You'll Love This Chicken Meatball Recipe
Honestly? These are the bomb. The ground chicken meatballs are lean but still juicy, thanks to a few tricks I'll share.
They're loaded with protein, making them a surprisingly healthy option. These juicy chicken meatballs are perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
What Makes These Chicken Meatballs Special?
These aren't just any homemade chicken meatballs . The secret ingredient is the Parmesan cheese. It adds a salty, savory kick that takes them to the next level.
You can bake them for convenience, or cook them on the stovetop for a richer flavor. I often make chicken meatballs for pasta for a simple and quick dish.
Time to Gather Your Bits and Bobs
Right then, let's get those ingredients lined up. Don't worry, it's all pretty standard stuff you can easily find at your local supermarket.
Right then, let's talk about what you need to make these banging chicken meatballs . Don't worry, it's all pretty simple stuff.
Even if you're not a seasoned chef, you can totally nail this chicken meatball recipe .
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Alright, let's get down to the nitty gritty. For the best juicy chicken meatballs , you'll need:
- 1 lb (454g) ground chicken . Honestly, don't skimp on the quality here.
- ½ cup (60g) breadcrumbs. Panko is fab, but Italian seasoned works too.
- ¼ cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese. Proper stuff, not the powdery kind!
- ¼ cup (30g) finely chopped fresh parsley. Fresh is key, trust me.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. Don't be shy with the garlic!
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
- ½ teaspoon salt.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
Quality ground chicken is essential. Look for a good color. It shouldn't smell funny. Thigh meat is better. For cooking, just 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
I once tried sunflower oil. The taste was off.
Seasoning Notes
Okay, so here's where the magic happens. The oregano is non-negotiable. That's what gives it that Italian chicken meatballs flavour.
But you can play around. A pinch of fennel seeds is nice. Adds a bit of sweetness. Red pepper flakes? Only if you like a bit of a kick.
If you don't have oregano, marjoram will do in a pinch.
Equipment Needed
Nothing fancy here, thank goodness.
- Large mixing bowl. Essential for getting everything mixed.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Obvious.
- Baking sheet (optional, for baked chicken meatballs ).
- Large skillet (for stovetop chicken meatballs ).
- Meat thermometer (optional, but seriously useful).
Don't have a fancy mixing bowl? Use any large bowl. No baking sheet? Foil on a tray is perfect. The thermometer is great. Gets these homemade chicken meatballs cooked to perfection.
Chicken Meatballs: So Good, They'll Fly the Coop!
Honestly, who doesn't love a good meatball? But let's be real, dry, tasteless chicken meatballs are a proper letdown. Fear not, my friend! This chicken meatball recipe is about to change your life.
Get ready for the juiciest, most flavour packed homemade chicken meatballs you've ever tasted. We're talkin' Italian American comfort food at its finest, perfect as chicken meatballs for pasta or just scoffing straight from the pan.
Prep Steps: Operation "Mise en Place"
Alright, before we get our hands dirty, let's do some prep. We need the essential mise en place. Chop your parsley.
Mince that garlic. Grate your parmesan cheese. Like a proper chef does, eh? Get all your ingredients measured out. This will save you time and prevent any kitchen disasters.
Safety first, mind you! Wash your hands before you start, and don't lick your fingers. You know? We wanna keep it clean in here.
The "Meat" of the Matter: step-by-step
Here's how we make these magical juicy chicken meatballs .
Combine 1 lb (454g) ground chicken , ½ cup (60g) breadcrumbs , ¼ cup (30g) Parmesan cheese , ¼ cup (30g) parsley , 2 minced cloves garlic , 1 beaten egg , 1 tbsp olive oil , 1 tsp oregano , ½ tsp salt , ¼ tsp pepper , and a pinch of red pepper flakes in a bowl.
Mix gently, like you are not destroying the meat.
Cover that bowl and chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. Why? Because this helps the ground chicken meatballs hold their shape like champions.
Wet your hands. Seriously, do it. Now, form the mixture into small, 1 inch meatballs.
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pop those little beauties in and cook, turning now and then, until they are brown and the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
Visual cue: golden brown and no pink when you cut into one.
Time to tuck in!
Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen
Don't overmix the Italian chicken meatballs mix, alright? Overmixing will lead to tough meatballs. Also, remember to always use wet hands to avoid the chicken from sticking to your hands.
Want to make them ahead? No problem! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. This works well, believe me! For a twist, try adding a little pesto to the mixture, and you'll thank me later.
Oh my gosh! Easy meatball recipe , isn't it? But the flavor is just amazing, and it's healthy. You can try baked chicken meatballs .
Alternatively, there are stovetop chicken meatballs . Both works.
Recipe Notes: Making Chicken Meatball Magic
Right then, let's talk about making these chicken meatballs truly flipping amazing. Honestly, it's the little things that make a world of difference.
So, grab a cuppa, and let’s dive in, shall we?
Serve 'Em Up Right: Plating and Pairings
Presentation matters, innit? For a classic vibe, serve these Italian chicken meatballs over spaghetti with a generous dollop of tomato sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan.
Oh my gosh, pure comfort food! If you're feeling fancy, try a meatball sub on crusty bread with melted mozzarella.
Side wise, a simple green salad or some garlic bread always hits the spot. Don't forget a nice glass of Chianti or even just a pint of your favorite brew.
Storage Secrets: Keeping 'Em Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your cooked chicken meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze them! Lay the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag.
These ground chicken meatballs will keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave, bake, or simmer in your sauce.
Easy peasy!
Twist It Up: Variations on a Theme
Fancy a change? Try making these as baked chicken meatballs instead of stovetop. For a healthier spin, swap half the ground chicken meatballs with grated zucchini.
Honestly, you won't even notice the difference! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Seriously, there are loads of ways to adapt this easy meatball recipe to your taste.
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in Every Bite
Each serving of these juicy chicken meatballs (about 4 meatballs) packs a good punch of protein. Plus, chicken is leaner than beef, making it a healthier choice.
The parmesan adds a bit of calcium, and the herbs bring some antioxidants. Keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate, but they are great.
So there you have it: everything you need to make these chicken meatballs a smashing success. Don't be afraid to experiment and make them your own.
Get creative, and have fun. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these chicken meatballs for later? I'm trying to be a savvy cook like Delia Smith!
Absolutely! Chicken meatballs freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely after cooking, then pop them into a freezer bag or airtight container. They'll keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use them, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight or reheat them directly from frozen in a sauce or in the oven.
Help! My chicken meatballs are always dry. What am I doing wrong? Is it possible to make juicy chicken meatballs?
Nobody wants dry meatballs! Make sure you're not overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make them tough. Also, using ground chicken thigh meat instead of breast will add more fat and flavor, resulting in juicier meatballs.
Don't overcook them; use a meat thermometer and pull them off the heat when they reach 165°F (74°C).
What's the best way to cook the chicken meatballs stovetop or oven? Does it affect the flavour?
Both stovetop and oven methods work great for cooking chicken meatballs! The stovetop method gives you a nice, browned crust and cooks them a bit faster. Baking is a bit more hands off and can be easier if you're making a big batch.
The stovetop method provides a richer taste from the frying of the meat, but the oven is much more practical. Experiment and see which you prefer!
I'm on a health kick. How can I make these chicken meatballs healthier, and what are the nutritional benefits?
Good on you! To make these chicken meatballs healthier, use lean ground chicken, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and bake them instead of frying. You can also load them up with extra veggies like finely grated zucchini or carrots. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, and this recipe offers a good balance of nutrients.
Just remember the nutritional information is an estimate.
Can I add different herbs or spices to the chicken meatballs? I'm feeling adventurous!
Absolutely, be bold like Jamie Oliver in the kitchen! Feel free to experiment with different flavors. Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary would be delicious additions. Spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or even a touch of chili powder could add a unique twist to your chicken meatballs.
Just remember to adjust the quantities to your taste.
I'm coeliac, are there any breadcrumb substitutions I can use to make these chicken meatballs gluten-free?
No problem! You can easily make these chicken meatballs gluten-free by substituting the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Alternatively, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers, almond flour, or even cooked quinoa as a binder.
These will work just as well as regular breadcrumbs, creating a perfectly gluten-free friendly meal!
Chicken Meatballs So Good Theyll Fly The Coop
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 220 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 0g |