Hey there, fellow food lover! If you’re ready to whip up something flavorful that will have everyone asking for seconds, then these chicken meatballs are just the ticket! Packed with gooey mozzarella and bursting with flavor, thay’re perfect for pasta, subs, or even as a tasty appetizer. Let’s dive into the details and make these mouthwatering meatballs together!

Cook Time: 20

Prep Time: 20

Yields: 14

Calories: 525

Simple ingredients for Delicious Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to making tasty chicken meatballs, having the right ingredients makes all the difference! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish.Gather these simple ingredients,and we’ll get cooking!

1 pound ground chicken: This is the star of the show,providing the base for our meatballs.
1 egg, beaten: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
¼ cup low-fat cream cheese: This adds a creamy texture and a hint of tanginess.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This will give your meatballs a rich, cheesy flavor.
4 cloves garlic, grated: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch!
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil: This helps keep the meatballs moist and adds a bit of healthy fat.
1 tablespoon dry breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs help with binding and give the meatballs a nice texture.
2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil: Fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor to the mix.
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper: For those who like a bit of heat, this will do the trick!
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A little extra garlic flavor never hurts.
½ teaspoon sea salt: This enhances all those splendid flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper: A must for seasoning.
½ teaspoon dried parsley: A touch of dried herbs for added flavor.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: This classic herb complements the chicken beautifully.
1 cup chopped fresh mozzarella: This is the surprise inside each meatball—creamy, melted goodness.

Once you have these ingredients,you’re all set to make delicious chicken meatballs that are stuffed with gooey mozzarella!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Meatballs

Now that we have our ingredients ready,let’s get to the fun part: making chicken meatballs! Follow these easy steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures our meatballs will cook evenly and get a nice golden color.

Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, beaten egg, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, olive oil, and dry breadcrumbs. Then add the fresh basil, crushed red pepper, garlic powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and oregano. Use your hands to combine everything thoroughly until well mixed.

Chill the mixture: For easier handling, transfer the mixture to the freezer for about 15 minutes. This will firm it up and make shaping the meatballs much easier.

Shape the meatballs: Once the mixture is chilled,use an ice cream scoop (or your hands) to form the mixture into 14 equally sized meatballs.

Stuff with mozzarella: Take a piece of fresh mozzarella and place it in the center of each meatball. Make sure to cover the cheese completely with the meat mixture.

Arrange on a baking sheet: place the meatballs on a nonstick baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other for even cooking.

Bake to perfection: Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. They’re done when they are no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

And that’s it! You’ll have delicious chicken meatballs ready to be served. Consider adding them to your favorite pasta or enjoying them on their own with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Serving and Storage Suggestions for Chicken Meatballs

Once your chicken meatballs are perfectly baked, it’s time to think about how to serve them. These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can steal the spotlight at any meal. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy them:

With Pasta: Toss them into a pot of spaghetti and your favorite marinara sauce for a classic dish that the whole family will love.
In a Sub: Make a hearty meatball sub by placing them in a toasted hoagie roll, topping with marinara and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
As Appetizers: Serve them with toothpicks and your choice of dipping sauce for a fantastic party snack. A simple homemade marinara or a spicy aioli works wonders!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers or want to meal prep, that’s great! Here’s how to store those delicious meatballs properly:

Refrigeration: Store the meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed thru, or microwave them for a swift fix.

These serving suggestions and storage tips make sure you can enjoy your chicken meatballs again and again!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Perfect chicken Meatballs

Making chicken meatballs can be a delightful experience,but sometimes things don’t turn out as planned. Here are some handy notes and troubleshooting tips to keep in mind while preparing your dish:

Moisture Level: If your meatball mixture feels too wet, add a bit more dry breadcrumbs. This helps to absorb extra moisture and keep the meatballs from falling apart while cooking.
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings! If you love a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Overcooking: Keep an eye on the meatballs while they bake. Overcooking can make them dry. They’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Consider using a meat thermometer to check.
Cheese Melting: If your mozzarella oozes out too much while baking, try using smaller pieces or chilling the stuffed meatballs a bit longer before cooking. This will help keep the cheese from leaking.

Following these notes will help you troubleshoot any issues and elevate your chicken meatballs for perfect results every time! Enjoy experimenting and making this recipe your own.