365 Low-Fat Main Dishes — One Recipe for Every Day!
Easy, beginner-friendly, with full nutrition info.
👉 Download Now – Just $2.90!Chicken meatballs have taken the culinary world by storm, and it’s easy to see why. They’re juicy, versatile, and perfect for meal prep. If you’ve been on the hunt for easy chicken recipes that won’t leave you feeling guilty, you’re in the right place. I created this post to share my love for chicken meatballs and help you whip up healthy, savory meals that fit effortlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Whether you’re a meal prep enthusiast or someone who simply loves enjoying wholesome dinners with family, these recipes are designed for you. You might be busy juggling work, family, or other commitments, but that shouldn’t mean you sacrifice flavor or nutrition. I pulled together 19 chicken meatball recipes that are juicy, easy, and perfect for various occasions. You’ll find everything from classic Italian flavors to zesty Asian-inspired dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
In this guide, you’ll not only discover delicious chicken meatball variations but also learn how to integrate them into quick dinner recipes and healthy meal plans. With these easy meatball ideas, you can impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to take your weeknight dinners to the next level!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 19 unique chicken meatball recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
– Explore classic and contemporary flavors, including Italian, Mediterranean, and Thai-inspired recipes.
– Learn how to make healthy chicken meatballs that are perfect for meal prep, keeping your dining experience guilt-free.
– Enjoy a range of cooking methods, from baking to stir-frying, giving you versatility in the kitchen.
– Find quick, savory dinner ideas that can easily become family favorites, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
1. Classic Italian Chicken Meatballs
Craving a cozy, heartwarming meal? These Classic Italian Chicken Meatballs are your answer. They combine juicy ground chicken with breadcrumbs and fragrant Italian herbs, baked to golden perfection and drenched in marinara sauce. Serve them over pasta or in a sub for a comforting feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce and add the cooked meatballs, simmering for 5 minutes.
FAQs:
– Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes, ground turkey works well in this recipe.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
2. Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs
Looking for a sweet and savory treat? These Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs are a delightful choice! The combination of honey’s sweetness and garlic’s savory flavor creates a dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. Pair them with rice and veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs and set aside.
3. In a skillet, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger over medium heat.
4. Add the meatballs and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
5. Serve over rice, drizzled with the remaining sauce.
FAQs:
– Can I use brown sugar instead of honey? Yes, brown sugar can be a great substitute.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
3. Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs
Need a refreshing meal? These Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs are just what you’re looking for! Bursting with lemon zest and herbs, they’re light yet flavorful, making them perfect for a summer dinner. Pair them with a crisp salad for a delightful, healthy option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Juice of 1/2 lemon
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I add more herbs? Absolutely, feel free to customize with your favorites!
– Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free.
How To Choose Chicken Meatball Recipes
When it comes to choosing chicken meatball recipes, you want to ensure that your selection fits your taste, dietary needs, and cooking style. Here’s a guide to help you find the best chicken meatball recipes for your next meal prep or quick dinner.
1. Flavor Profiles
Start by considering the flavor profiles you enjoy. Do you prefer savory dishes, like Classic Italian Chicken Meatballs, or something with a kick, such as Spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs? Think about what ingredients you enjoy most. Recipes can range from sweet and tangy, like Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs, to zesty options, like Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs. Choosing a flavor that excites your taste buds will make your meals more enjoyable!
2. Cooking Method
Decide how you want to cook your chicken meatballs. You have many options: baking, frying, or simmering in a sauce. For healthier choices, baked chicken meatballs are a great option, like Baked Chicken Meatballs with Spinach. On the other hand, if you’re short on time, quick-cooking techniques, such as stir-frying or using a slow cooker, might be ideal. Different cooking methods can also affect the flavor and texture of the meatballs, so choose one that fits your schedule and preferences.
3. Dietary Needs
Consider any dietary restrictions you or your family may have. If you’re looking for healthy meatball ideas, opt for recipes that incorporate lean ground chicken and plenty of veggies. For instance, Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are not only delicious but can also be packed with herbs and healthy ingredients. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to check your recipes for gluten-containing ingredients. There are plenty of variations to cater to different diets, so you can still enjoy flavorful meals.
4. Preparation Time
Think about how much time you have to prepare your meal. If you need quick dinner recipes, choose options like Chicken Meatball Tacos or Chicken Meatball Wraps that can be ready in under 30 minutes. On the other hand, if you have more time, you might want to try recipes that require longer cooking, such as Chicken Meatball Soup or Chicken Meatball Casserole. Balancing your schedule with your meal choices is key.
5. Serving Size and Storage
Consider how many people you are serving and whether you want leftovers. If you’re meal prepping, it’s best to select recipes that yield several servings. Recipes like Chicken Meatball Skewers and Chicken Meatball Casserole can easily be doubled for larger groups. Also, think about how well the meatballs store in the fridge or freezer. Many chicken meatball recipes hold up well, making them ideal for meal prep.
6. Ingredient Availability
Finally, take stock of what’s available in your kitchen or at your local grocery store. Some recipes call for unique ingredients that might be hard to find. If you want to keep things simple, pick recipes that use common ingredients like ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and basic spices. For instance, Cheesy Chicken Meatballs require just a few staples and are quick to whip up.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients or cooking methods between recipes! If you find a recipe that you love, try adding your twist to it, whether that’s changing the sauce or adding extra vegetables. Personalizing chicken meatball recipes can lead to delightful discoveries in flavor!
4. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
If you enjoy a bit of heat, these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a must-try! Coated in tangy buffalo sauce, they make a great appetizer or a filling lunch wrapped in a tortilla. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese for the ultimate flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/3 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, breadcrumbs, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use a different sauce? Yes, you can substitute with your favorite hot sauce.
– Can I make it milder? Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce for less heat.
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5. Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs
Take your taste buds on a trip with these Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs! Infused with spices like cumin and coriander, they’re loaded with feta cheese for a burst of flavor. Perfect for serving in wraps or with tzatziki sauce, these meatballs are a unique addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, feta, egg, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use ground lamb instead? Yes, ground lamb is a fantastic alternative.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for this recipe.
6. BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these BBQ Chicken Meatballs! Smoky and sweet, they’re perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in. Serve them as an appetizer, in sliders, or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, BBQ sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until cooked through, basting with more BBQ sauce halfway through.
FAQs:
– Can I use homemade BBQ sauce? Yes, homemade BBQ sauce would enhance the flavor!
– Can I make it spicy? Add some hot sauce to the BBQ mixture for an extra kick.
7. Thai Peanut Chicken Meatballs
Craving something different? These Thai Peanut Chicken Meatballs are bursting with exotic flavor! Drizzled with creamy peanut sauce, they’re perfect served over rice or in fresh lettuce wraps for a light, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/3 cup peanut butter
– 1 egg
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine chicken, breadcrumbs, peanut butter, egg, soy sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until golden, drizzling with extra peanut sauce before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use almond butter instead? Yes, almond butter can be used as a substitute.
– Can I make it nut-free? Use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
These Thai Peanut Chicken Meatballs show that Chicken meatball recipes can be bold, healthy, and easy. Batch them up, bake once, and drizzle peanut sauce for lunches that stay exciting all week. Meal prep made deliciously simple.
8. Baked Chicken Meatballs with Spinach
Looking to sneak in some greens? These Baked Chicken Meatballs with Spinach are a delicious solution! Packed with nutrients, the spinach keeps them moist while adding a subtle flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. Pair them with marinara sauce or pasta for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, spinach, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25 minutes until cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, just thaw and drain excess water before adding.
– Can I add cheese? Sure, mixing in some shredded cheese would be delicious!
9. Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs
Satisfy your craving for something sweet and tangy with these Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs! Cooked in a zesty sauce, they’re perfect for family dinners or as a fun appetizer. Serve them with rice or steamed veggies for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, sweet and sour sauce, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought sauce? Yes, store-bought sweet and sour sauce will work perfectly.
– Can I make it spicy? Add a dash of chili sauce to the mixture for some heat.
10. Pesto Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your weeknight meals with these Pesto Chicken Meatballs! Infused with fresh basil pesto, they’re a flavorful choice that’s quick to prepare. Serve them with zoodles or a side salad for a light yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, breadcrumbs, pesto, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Shape into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought pesto? Yes, store-bought pesto works great in this recipe.
– Can I add cheese? Absolutely, mixing in some Parmesan would enhance the flavor!
11. Curry Chicken Meatballs
Spice up your dinner routine with these aromatic Curry Chicken Meatballs! Infused with warm spices, they pair wonderfully with jasmine rice and roasted vegetables. This dish brings the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, curry powder, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use different spices? Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite spices!
– Can I make it dairy-free? This recipe is naturally dairy-free as it stands.
Spice brings big flavor without extra effort—perfect for meal prep. These Curry Chicken Meatballs turn Chicken meatball recipes into weeknight favorites you actually look forward to.
12. Cheesy Chicken Meatballs
Who can resist a cheesy bite? These Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are gooey and delicious, sure to please any cheese lover. Filled with melted mozzarella, they can be served with marinara sauce or enjoyed on their own for a tasty snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, half the mozzarella, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, topping with remaining mozzarella in the last 5 minutes.
FAQs:
– Can I use a different cheese? Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese!
– Can I make them ahead? Yes, they can be prepared in advance and frozen for later use.
13. Chicken Meatball Stir-Fry
In need of a quick and healthy dinner? This Chicken Meatball Stir-Fry is ready in no time! Packed with vibrant vegetables and tossed in a savory sauce, it’s a nutritious choice for busy weeknights. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper and form into meatballs.
2. In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add meatballs and cook until browned.
4. Add mixed vegetables and soy sauce, stir-frying for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can save you prep time.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce to suit dietary needs.
14. Chicken Meatball Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Chicken Meatball Soup! This hearty dish is filled with tender meatballs and colorful vegetables, making it perfect for chilly evenings. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to get your veggies in!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, and form into small meatballs.
2. In a pot, heat chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Add meatballs, carrots, and celery, simmering until meatballs are cooked through.
4. Stir in spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
FAQs:
– Can I use vegetable broth? Yes, vegetable broth can be used for a lighter soup.
– Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely, feel free to add your favorites!
15. Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
This Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting blend of flavors and textures. With mini chicken meatballs, pasta, and fresh greens, it makes for a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a healthy option that warms the soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 cup kale, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, and form into mini meatballs.
3. Bake meatballs for 20 minutes until cooked through.
4. In a pot, heat chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions, then add meatballs and kale until wilted.
FAQs:
– Can I use another type of pasta? Yes, any small pasta will work well!
– Can I add beans? Adding white beans will increase the heartiness of the soup.
16. Chicken Meatball Tacos
Spice up your taco night with these Chicken Meatball Tacos! Flavored with zesty taco spices, these meatballs are a fun twist on traditional tacos. Top them with your favorite toppings for a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp taco seasoning
– 1 egg
– Corn tortillas
– Toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, breadcrumbs, taco seasoning, and egg.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until cooked through.
5. Serve on corn tortillas with your favorite toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I use flour tortillas? Yes, flour tortillas can be used if you prefer.
– Can I add avocado? Yes, avocado makes a great topping!
17. Chicken Meatball Skewers
Fire up the grill for these Chicken Meatball Skewers! Perfect for outdoor gatherings or family barbecues, these skewers are packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Pair with colorful bell peppers and onions for added nutrition and a vibrant presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bell peppers and onions for skewering
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs.
4. Skewer meatballs alternately with chunks of bell peppers and onions.
5. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use a grill pan? Yes, a grill pan works well if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
– Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely, zucchini and cherry tomatoes would be great additions!
Fun fact: Skewering chicken meatballs and grilling locks in moisture, reducing shrinkage by up to 25%. This simple trick makes Chicken meatball recipes easier for meal prep and outdoor gatherings.
18. Chicken Meatball Casserole
Cozy up with this Chicken Meatball Casserole, a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and goodness. Layered with pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd and makes excellent leftovers too!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 3 cups cooked pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, and form into meatballs.
3. In a baking dish, layer cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and meatballs.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
FAQs:
– Can I use different pasta? Yes, any cooked pasta will work well in this casserole.
– Can I add vegetables? Adding spinach or mushrooms would be a delicious addition!
19. Chicken Meatball Wraps
Wrap up your meal prep with these Chicken Meatball Wraps! Filled with fresh veggies and your favorite sauces, they’re a convenient grab-and-go option for busy days. Plus, you can customize them to everyone’s liking, making them a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– Wraps (tortilla or lettuce wraps)
– Desired toppings: lettuce, tomato, avocado, sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, and egg.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until fully cooked.
5. Serve in wraps with your choice of toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I prepare them in advance? Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them.
– Can I use any sauce? Absolutely, any sauce you love will work!
Conclusion
Chicken meatballs are a versatile and healthy option that can cater to any taste.
From classic Italian to spicy buffalo, there’s a recipe for everyone. These dishes not only offer great flavor but also provide nutrition, making them perfect for meal prep or those busy weeknights. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your own variations and enjoy these juicy bites of deliciousness!
Related Topics
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