Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by Emily on December 27, 2024

If you’re craving a simple yet delicious dish, look no further than Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs. This easy recipe will have you whipping up tender, flavorful meatballs in no time. Packed with fresh herbs and seasonings, these meatballs are perfect for dinner or a party snack. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your meatballs come out juicy and perfectly seasoned every time. Let’s get cooking!

$- 1 lb ground chicken - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking) The main star here is ground chicken. It gives the meatballs a light and tender bite. You also need fresh garlic to add that rich flavor. I love using parsley and basil. They bring freshness and color. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together. The grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy touch. Don’t forget the egg; it helps the meatballs hold their shape. The oregano, salt, and pepper give the meatballs depth and flavor. - Marinara sauce - Additional herbs for garnish While the meatballs are tasty on their own, marinara sauce makes them even better. You can serve the meatballs drizzled with warm marinara. It adds moisture and flavor. I also like to use extra herbs for garnish. They make the dish look pretty and add a fresh taste. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start making your garlic herb chicken meatballs, grab a large mixing bowl. Next, combine the following ingredients: - 1 lb ground chicken - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 large egg - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Mix these items until they blend well. I prefer using my hands for this, but a spatula works, too. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing makes the meatballs tough instead of tender. After mixing, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Take a handful of the mixture and form it into a ball. Aim for golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy clean-up later. Now, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key for getting a nice golden brown on the outside. Remember to drizzle olive oil over the meatballs before you bake them. This oil helps them crisp up nicely. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check that they are cooked through and golden. While your meatballs bake, heat some marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs are ready, serve them hot, topped with the warm marinara sauce. You can also sprinkle more fresh herbs on top for a nice touch. For a fun presentation, try serving the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks. This makes them easy for guests to grab. You can also pair them with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious garlic herb chicken meatballs! To make great meatballs, you must mix the ingredients just right. Overmixing makes them tough. Use your hands to blend the ground chicken and spices gently. Just combine until it's evenly mixed. This keeps them tender and juicy. Another trick is to keep the meat mixture cool. If it's warm, the fat can melt away. This can make meatballs dry. You can chill the mixture for 10-15 minutes before shaping. It helps to keep everything together. You can bake or fry these meatballs. Baking is easier and less messy. If you bake, use an oven set to 400°F (200°C). This gives a nice brown color and cooks them well. If you prefer frying, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry until browned all over. This adds flavor but can take longer than baking. Choose the method that fits your style best. If using the oven, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and keeps meatballs from sticking. By following these tips, you will have perfect garlic herb chicken meatballs every time! Pro Tips Keep It Tender: Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture; this helps keep them tender and juicy. Chill Before Baking: For firmer meatballs, refrigerate the formed meatballs for 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried. If possible, use fresh parsley and basil for the best taste. Perfect Baking: To ensure even cooking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time for uniformly browned meatballs. {{image_2}} You can change the ground chicken in this recipe. Try ground turkey for a leaner option. If you want a meatless version, use lentils or chickpeas. They both work great! For herbs, feel free to swap out parsley and basil. You might like using cilantro or thyme instead. Each herb gives the meatballs a new taste. Experiment and find what you enjoy! Serve these meatballs in many fun ways! One great option is to make meatball subs. Just place the meatballs in a soft roll and top with marinara sauce and cheese. You can also add meatballs to pasta dishes. Toss them with your favorite pasta and sauce. It makes a hearty meal that everyone will love. Consider using a slow cooker for a simple meal. Just mix all the ingredients, form the meatballs, and place them in the slow cooker with sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you want a smoky flavor, try grilling the meatballs. Form them as usual and place them on a hot grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes. Just make sure to check they are cooked through. These variations help you make the recipe your own! Enjoy trying new ideas! To keep your leftover meatballs fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Place meatballs in an airtight container. They stay good for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down before sealing. - Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze meatballs. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Lay them flat to save space. They last for up to 3 months. Label the bags with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to eat your meatballs again, here’s how to reheat them: - Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. - Stovetop Method: Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan. Add meatballs and cook on medium heat. Turn them often for even heating. - Microwave Method: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check and stir in between to keep them juicy. For all methods, make sure they are hot all the way through. Enjoy! To check if your meatballs are done, use a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one in half. The meat should be white, not pink. You might also notice a nice golden color on the outside. This shows they are ready to eat. Always check a few meatballs to be sure. Yes, you can swap ground chicken for other meats. Ground turkey works well and is lean too. Ground beef adds more flavor and fat. You can even try ground pork for a richer taste. Each type of meat gives a different flavor, so feel free to experiment! To keep meatballs from breaking, use the right amount of binder. In this recipe, breadcrumbs and egg help hold them together. Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this can make them tough. Also, form them gently into balls. Make sure they are not too loose or too tight. Finally, let them rest for a few minutes before cooking to help them stay firm. We explored the key ingredients for delicious meatballs, starting with ground chicken, herbs, and spices. I shared steps for mixing, shaping, and baking, plus tips for keeping them juicy. You learned various serving options, including marinara sauce and creative ideas. Remember, you can customize with different ingredients and methods. Whether baking or grilling, these meatballs are fun and easy to make. Enjoy your cooking adventure and delight in every bite!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Flavorful Herbs: The combination of fresh parsley and basil adds a vibrant flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Dish: These meatballs can be served with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Healthy Option: Using ground chicken and fresh herbs makes this dish a lighter yet satisfying alternative to traditional meatballs.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

– 1 lb ground chicken

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

The main star here is ground chicken. It gives the meatballs a light and tender bite. You also need fresh garlic to add that rich flavor. I love using parsley and basil. They bring freshness and color. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together. The grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy touch. Don’t forget the egg; it helps the meatballs hold their shape. The oregano, salt, and pepper give the meatballs depth and flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Serving

– Marinara sauce

– Additional herbs for garnish

While the meatballs are tasty on their own, marinara sauce makes them even better. You can serve the meatballs drizzled with warm marinara. It adds moisture and flavor. I also like to use extra herbs for garnish. They make the dish look pretty and add a fresh taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Meatball Mixture

To start making your garlic herb chicken meatballs, grab a large mixing bowl. Next, combine the following ingredients:

– 1 lb ground chicken

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 large egg

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Mix these items until they blend well. I prefer using my hands for this, but a spatula works, too. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing makes the meatballs tough instead of tender.

Shaping and Baking the Meatballs

After mixing, it’s time to shape the meatballs. Take a handful of the mixture and form it into a ball. Aim for golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with easy clean-up later.

Now, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is key for getting a nice golden brown on the outside. Remember to drizzle olive oil over the meatballs before you bake them. This oil helps them crisp up nicely. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Check that they are cooked through and golden.

Serving Suggestions

While your meatballs bake, heat some marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the meatballs are ready, serve them hot, topped with the warm marinara sauce. You can also sprinkle more fresh herbs on top for a nice touch.

For a fun presentation, try serving the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks. This makes them easy for guests to grab. You can also pair them with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious garlic herb chicken meatballs!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To make great meatballs, you must mix the ingredients just right. Overmixing makes them tough. Use your hands to blend the ground chicken and spices gently. Just combine until it’s evenly mixed. This keeps them tender and juicy.

Another trick is to keep the meat mixture cool. If it’s warm, the fat can melt away. This can make meatballs dry. You can chill the mixture for 10-15 minutes before shaping. It helps to keep everything together.

Cooking Techniques

You can bake or fry these meatballs. Baking is easier and less messy. If you bake, use an oven set to 400°F (200°C). This gives a nice brown color and cooks them well.

If you prefer frying, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry until browned all over. This adds flavor but can take longer than baking. Choose the method that fits your style best.

If using the oven, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup and keeps meatballs from sticking. By following these tips, you will have perfect garlic herb chicken meatballs every time!

Pro Tips

Keep It Tender: Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture; this helps keep them tender and juicy.
Chill Before Baking: For firmer meatballs, refrigerate the formed meatballs for 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried. If possible, use fresh parsley and basil for the best taste.
Perfect Baking: To ensure even cooking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time for uniformly browned meatballs.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the ground chicken in this recipe. Try ground turkey for a leaner option. If you want a meatless version, use lentils or chickpeas. They both work great!

For herbs, feel free to swap out parsley and basil. You might like using cilantro or thyme instead. Each herb gives the meatballs a new taste. Experiment and find what you enjoy!

Serving Variations

Serve these meatballs in many fun ways! One great option is to make meatball subs. Just place the meatballs in a soft roll and top with marinara sauce and cheese.

You can also add meatballs to pasta dishes. Toss them with your favorite pasta and sauce. It makes a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Preparation Method Variations

Consider using a slow cooker for a simple meal. Just mix all the ingredients, form the meatballs, and place them in the slow cooker with sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

If you want a smoky flavor, try grilling the meatballs. Form them as usual and place them on a hot grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes. Just make sure to check they are cooked through.

These variations help you make the recipe your own! Enjoy trying new ideas!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Meatballs

To keep your leftover meatballs fresh, follow these steps:

– Refrigeration: Place meatballs in an airtight container. They stay good for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down before sealing.

– Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze meatballs. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Lay them flat to save space. They last for up to 3 months. Label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat your meatballs again, here’s how to reheat them:

– Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

– Stovetop Method: Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan. Add meatballs and cook on medium heat. Turn them often for even heating.

– Microwave Method: Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Check and stir in between to keep them juicy.

For all methods, make sure they are hot all the way through. Enjoy!

FAQs

How do I know when meatballs are cooked through?

To check if your meatballs are done, use a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one in half. The meat should be white, not pink. You might also notice a nice golden color on the outside. This shows they are ready to eat. Always check a few meatballs to be sure.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can swap ground chicken for other meats. Ground turkey works well and is lean too. Ground beef adds more flavor and fat. You can even try ground pork for a richer taste. Each type of meat gives a different flavor, so feel free to experiment!

How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart?

To keep meatballs from breaking, use the right amount of binder. In this recipe, breadcrumbs and egg help hold them together. Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this can make them tough. Also, form them gently into balls. Make sure they are not too loose or too tight. Finally, let them rest for a few minutes before cooking to help them stay firm.

We explored the key ingredients for delicious meatballs, starting with ground chicken, herbs, and spices. I shared steps for mixing, shaping, and baking, plus tips for keeping them juicy. You learned various serving options, including marinara sauce and creative ideas. Remember, you can customize with different ingredients and methods. Whether baking or grilling, these meatballs are fun and easy to make. Enjoy your cooking adventure and delight in every bit