Are you ready to whip up some delicious Chicken Meatballs that will have everyone asking for seconds? I’ve got a recipe that’s super easy, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion! Whether you serve them with pasta, in a sub, or as a tasty appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Cook Time: 20

Prep Time: 40

Yields: 4

Calories: 430

simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Meatballs

Making these Chicken Meatballs is a breeze with just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create these tender and flavorful bites that everyone will love:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 ounces of pork fat (or fatty bacon), diced for added richness
3 ounces crustless French breadcrumbs—this gives a lovely texture
⅓ cup sautéed onions (optional, but thay add great flavor)
1 large egg, beaten to help bind everything together
1 tablespoon white wine for depth of flavor
3 cloves garlic, finely minced to pack a punch
¼ cup chopped parsley for a fresh touch
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt to enhance the taste
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper for seasoning
¼ teaspoon chili flakes to add a bit of heat
¼ teaspoon crushed fennel seeds for a hint of sweetness
4 cups prepared tomato sauce (optional, but highly recommended for serving)
Olive oil or cooking spray to grease your baking sheet

These ingredients combine to create beautifully moist meatballs that are bursting with flavor. Don’t skimp on quality, especially with your chicken and pork ingredients, as they make a notable difference in the final taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Meatballs

Ready to make these fantastic Chicken Meatballs? follow these step-by-step instructions, and let’s get cooking!

Chill the Chicken: Start by mixing the chicken thighs and pork fat in a bowl. Place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes until firm and very cold. This helps with texture when blending.

Prepare the Mixture: In a food processor, add the breadcrumbs, sautéed onions (if using), beaten egg, white wine, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, chili flakes, and crushed fennel seeds. Give it a swift pulse to combine.

Add the Chicken: After your meat mixture is firm, add it to the food processor on top of the breadcrumb mixture. Pulse until it resembles finely ground meat. Be careful not to over-process; you want some texture.

Chill Again: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and cover it. Place it in the refrigerator for 1 hour.This ensures the flavors meld together and helps in shaping the meatballs.

Preheat and prepare: preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray.

Shape the Meatballs: divide the mixture into 12 portions. With damp hands, roll each portion into smooth balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake: Bake the meatballs in your preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until they are cooked through. For a nice golden finish, switch the broiler to high for the last 1-2 minutes.

Serve: You can serve them straight away, or for extra flavor, simmer them gently in tomato sauce for about 20 minutes.

Enjoy the delightful aromas in your kitchen as you savor these Chicken Meatballs, either on their own or paired with your favorite sauce!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chicken Meatballs

Once your Chicken meatballs are ready, it’s time to enjoy the delicious results! Here are some tips on serving and storing them to make the most of your meal:

Serving Suggestions:

Hot and Fresh: Serve your meatballs immediately after baking for the best flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a robust tomato sauce or your favorite marinara.
Creative Pairings: Consider serving them over a bed of pasta, in a sub sandwich with melted cheese, or as an appetizer with toothpicks and a dipping sauce.
Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Storage Data:

refrigeration: If you have leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also simmer them in sauce on the stove for added moisture.

With these serving and storage tips, you can savor your Chicken Meatballs throughout the week and enjoy them in various dishes!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Perfect chicken Meatballs

Here are some handy notes and troubleshooting tips to ensure your Chicken meatballs turn out perfectly every time:

Tips for Success:

Meat Consistency: The texture of your meatballs relies heavily on the mixture.If they seem too wet, add a bit more bread crumbs. Conversely, if they feel too dry, incorporate a splash of white wine or a drizzle of olive oil.
Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the mixture before shaping helps the meatballs hold their form while baking.

Common Issues:

Meatballs Falling Apart: If your meatballs are falling apart during baking, it could be due to insufficient binding agents. Ensure you’re using enough breadcrumbs and a beaten egg to hold them together.
Too Dense or Tough: be cautious when processing the mixture. Over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs. Pulse just until combined, and always stop to scrape the sides of the food processor.

Flavor Enhancements:

For additional flavor, experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding oregano, basil, or even a dash of smoked paprika can elevate the taste profile of your meatballs.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of chili flakes or even add a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.

By keeping these notes in mind, you’ll craft wonderfully juicy and flavorful Chicken Meatballs that are sure to impress!