Chicken Meatballs

Packed with flavor and brushed with a lemony garlic herb butter, these easy baked chicken meatballs are a lighter twist on a classic comfort food. They’re juicy, tender, and perfect for pairing with pasta, zucchini noodles, or simply enjoying on their own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These baked chicken meatballs are quick to prepare, healthier than traditional beef versions, and packed with fresh herbs and Parmesan for incredible flavor. Baking them means no messy stovetop frying, and the lemon garlic herb butter takes them to the next level. They’re also freezer-friendly, making them a perfect make-ahead meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Meatballs

• 2 pounds ground chicken

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Lemon Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley leaves

• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves

• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh oregano leaves

• Pinch of salt

• Optional for serving: crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a large bowl, mix all the meatball ingredients until well combined.

3. Roll the mixture into balls, about 2 tablespoons each, and place on the baking sheet. You should get around 35 meatballs.

4. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. While baking, make the sauce: melt butter with lemon juice in a small saucepan. Stir in garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and mix in herbs.

6. Brush or spoon the sauce over the hot meatballs. Serve warm with extra sauce and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 35 meatballs, serving approximately 7 people (5 meatballs per serving).
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken.

• Use panko, Italian seasoned, whole wheat, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

• Skip the Parmesan or swap it with another cheese such as mozzarella or feta.

• Replace fresh herbs with dried (use half the amount).

• Serve with pasta, rice, quinoa, or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week. To freeze, you can either freeze raw meatballs or cooked ones. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen cooked meatballs at 400°F (204°C) for 15–18 minutes, or bake frozen raw ones for about 25 minutes until fully cooked through.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the meatballs up to a day in advance, then bake when ready.

Do I need to flip the meatballs while baking?

No, they bake evenly without flipping.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe.

What can I serve with chicken meatballs?

They pair well with pasta, zucchini noodles, rice, or a simple side salad.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Is it necessary to add Parmesan cheese?

No, but it adds great flavor. You can skip it or replace it with another cheese.

Can I pan-fry these instead of baking?

Yes, but baking is easier and less messy. If pan-frying, cook in batches over medium heat until fully cooked.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely, just make sure you have enough baking sheet space or bake in batches.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

They will stay fresh for up to 1 week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Easy baked chicken meatballs are a versatile and flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare, healthier than traditional meatballs, and perfect for meal prep. Whether served over pasta, zucchini noodles, or enjoyed on their own, these juicy, herb-brushed meatballs are sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen

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