Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) Recipe

If you’ve been on the hunt for a dish that strikes the perfect balance between juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week). These golden nuggets of deliciousness are tender on the inside, beautifully crisp on the outside, and packed with herbs and parmesan that elevate every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is my go-to that never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are beautifully simple but powerful—they come together seamlessly to create moist, rich, and aromatic meatballs full of flavor and texture. Each element has its own starring role, elevating the dish from basic to unforgettable.

• Chicken mince (1 lb / 500 g): The lean protein base, which ensures juicy meatballs that aren’t too heavy.
• Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to hold everything together while adding moisture.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds smooth richness and helps with browning during baking.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup / 55 g): These Japanese-style crumbs keep the meatballs light and fluffy rather than dense.
• Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup / 50 g): Provides a salty, savory punch with an irresistible nutty flavor.
• Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Infuses a warm, garlicky aroma without overpowering the mix.
• Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Enhances the savory depth of the meatballs.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Simply essential to bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
• Italian herb mix or oregano (1 tsp): Brightens the dish with herbal notes, creating a classic Italian vibe.

How to Make Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week)

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Tray

Start by preheating your fan-forced oven to 170°C (or 180°C if you don’t have a fan). Line a large baking tray with baking paper—this makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking, ensuring that each meatball keeps its perfect shape and golden crust.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

Pop all your ingredients into a medium-sized mixing bowl. The fun part? Use your clean hands to mix everything together until it’s uniformly combined. This tactile process not only blends all the flavors perfectly, but you’re also in control of the texture—if it feels a bit sticky, a little extra panko can help without drying things out.

Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs

Roll the mixture into tablespoon-sized balls—aiming for about 25 meatballs in total. Placing them evenly spaced on your prepared baking tray ensures that they cook evenly, turning golden brown without crowding or steaming one another.

Step 4: Bake to Juicy Perfection

Bake the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden and have reached an internal temperature of 73°C (165°F). This is the secret to juicy, perfectly cooked meatballs every time—no drying out allowed! Right at the end, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Serve Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week)

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil instantly brightens these meatballs and adds a fresh herbal fragrance. A light dusting of extra parmesan right before serving is the cherry on top that makes each bite melt in your mouth.

Side Dishes

These meatballs are incredibly versatile. They shine beautifully alongside a simple spaghetti with marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired dinner. For something lighter, pair them with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette—your greens will be begging for these juicy morsels. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also work wonders here.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Thread these juicy bites onto skewers alongside cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a colorful appetizer display. Or serve inside warm pita pockets with tzatziki or a simple yogurt dip for a fun finger food option. These meatballs adapt to casual or fancy settings with equal charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This recipe yields plenty of meatballs, and they taste just as delicious when reheated thanks to the balanced moisture retained during baking.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, freezing is a lifesaver. Lay cooked or uncooked meatballs on a baking tray in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a zip-lock bag to store in the freezer for up to two months. This makes quick meals or snacks totally stress-free.

Reheating

Reheat your meatballs in a preheated oven until warmed through, ideally at 170°C to keep their moisture intact without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve their perfect texture and juiciness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mince for this recipe?

Absolutely! While I love Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) with chicken, you can swap in beef, pork, lamb, or turkey mince with great results. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to suit your taste.

Why do you recommend panko breadcrumbs?

Panko breadcrumbs are larger and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, which helps keep the meatballs light and tender. However, if you don’t have panko, fine breadcrumbs will still work perfectly.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked?

The best way is to check with a meat thermometer—once they reach an internal temperature of 73°C (165°F), they’re safe and juicy. Visually, they should be golden brown and firm but tender when gently pressed.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will remain fantastic.

Are Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) suitable for freezing?

Definitely! Both cooked and uncooked meatballs freeze well. Just remember to freeze them in a single layer first to prevent sticking, then transfer to airtight bags for up to two months.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a reliable, delicious, and super satisfying recipe, Juicy Baked Chicken Meatballs (I make this every week) deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen repertoire. They’re straightforward to whip up, endlessly adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try today—you just might find yourself making these golden beauties every single week, just like me!