Italian Chicken Meatballs

Whenever I think about comfort food, Italian Chicken Meatballs immediately comes to mind. It’s a dish that’s close to my heart, bringing back memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious aromas filled the air. I remember the first time I learned how to make them; it was a beautiful Saturday afternoon in my grandmother’s kitchen. She guided me through each step, emphasizing the importance of fresh ingredients and love in every bite. The moment those meatballs hit the hot pan, I knew I was onto something special. Their golden, crispy exterior and juicy interior create a perfect balance that makes them irresistible. Whether served over spaghetti or enjoyed on their own, Italian Chicken Meatballs never fail to impress. They’re not just food; they’re a way to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will quickly become a family favorite!

What You Need for Italian Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to the ingredients for Italian Chicken Meatballs, it’s all about freshness and balance. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor and texture. The key players here include the ground chicken, which provides a lean protein base, and ciabatta bread, which helps to keep the meatballs moist and tender. Combined with aromatic herbs and spices, these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting.

• 2 thick slices of ciabatta bread, crust cut off: This bread is perfect for soaking up the milk, creating a wonderfully moist texture in the meatballs.
• ½ cup milk: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring the meatballs are never dry.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the meatballs together.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs: Provides structure and crunch to the meatballs. You can use regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs based on your preference.
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated: Brings a savory, umami flavor to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced: Infuses the meatballs with aromatic flavor. Garlic is a must in Italian cooking!
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely minced: Adds freshness and color.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens the flavors with its citrusy notes.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Provides an earthy aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 10 oz ground chicken: The star ingredient; it’s lean yet flavorful, making it an excellent choice for meatballs.
• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps in browning the meatballs beautifully.

Step by Step Instructions for Italian Chicken Meatballs

Creating the perfect Italian Chicken Meatballs is a delightful process that you can easily manage. Follow these simple steps for delicious results. Trust me, the satisfaction of making your own meatballs is unbeatable!

1. Begin by cutting the ciabatta bread into small cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl and pour in the milk. Allow the bread to soak for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures the meatballs remain moist.
2. Once the bread has soaked, drain it and gently squeeze out any excess milk using your hands. Transfer the soaked bread to a large mixing bowl.
3. Add in the beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, thyme, and the ground chicken into the bowl. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper. It’s important to season well at this stage for maximum flavor.
4. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients until well combined. Don’t overmix; just enough that everything is evenly distributed.
5. Next, lightly oil your hands. Take a small piece of the mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it between your palms to form 1-inch meatballs. Ensure they’re compact but not too tight.
6. Arrange the formed meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
7. In a large frying pan, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking.
8. Carefully place the meatballs into the pan, leaving space between each one. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust on one side.
9. Using tongs, gently shake the pan to loosen the meatballs, then turn each one to cook on the other side for an additional 4 to 5 minutes.
10. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will absorb any excess oil. You can then transfer them to a serving plate or mix them with your favorite tomato sauce to serve over pasta.

Recipe Tips about Italian Chicken Meatballs

Making the perfect Italian Chicken Meatballs is all about the little details. Here are my favorite tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Storage: Refrigerate leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They make for a quick meal when you’re pressed for time.
• Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch, freeze uncooked meatballs. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For leftover meatballs, reheat in the oven at 170C/350F for 5 to 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair these meatballs with spaghetti or serve them in a sub sandwich for a hearty meal.
• Sauce Options: Try different sauces like marinara or pesto to change up the flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil for a different twist.

Serving This Italian Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to serving Italian Chicken Meatballs, the possibilities are as endless as they are delicious. Here are some ideas that I’ve enjoyed over the years:

• Classic Spaghetti: Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti topped with marinara for a timeless Italian dish.
• Sub Sandwiches: Place meatballs in a soft sub roll, add cheese, and broil until melted for a tasty meatball sub.
• Salads: For a lighter option, add meatballs to a mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette.
• With Tomato Sauce: Toss the meatballs with your favorite tomato sauce and serve with garlic bread on the side.
• As Appetizers: Serve the meatballs on toothpicks with a side of marinara sauce for dipping during parties.
• Freezing for Later: If you have leftovers, freeze them for an easy meal later. They reheat beautifully!
• Garnish: Top with additional parsley or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch!

FAQ

Conclusion

Italian Chicken Meatballs are truly special because they combine the essence of traditional Italian cooking with a modern twist. Their crispy exterior and juicy interior make them an irresistible dish that brings everyone to the table. I encourage you to try making these meatballs for your next family dinner or special occasion. You won’t just be serving a meal; you’ll be creating memories!

Italian Chicken Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Italian Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make! This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and become a family favorite. Packed with delicious ingredients, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion, so why not make them tonight?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 slices ciabatta bread crust cut off
• ½ cup milk
• 1 large egg beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 10 oz ground chicken
• to taste sea salt
• to taste freshly cracked black pepper
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

 

• Begin by cutting the ciabatta bread into small cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl and pour in the milk. Allow the bread to soak for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures the meatballs remain moist.
• Once the bread has soaked, drain it and gently squeeze out any excess milk using your hands. Transfer the soaked bread to a large mixing bowl.
• Add in the beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, thyme, and the ground chicken into the bowl. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper. It’s important to season well at this stage for maximum flavor.
• Using your hands, mix all the ingredients until well combined. Don’t overmix; just enough that everything is evenly distributed.
• Next, lightly oil your hands. Take a small piece of the mixture (about a tablespoon) and roll it between your palms to form 1-inch meatballs. Ensure they’re compact but not too tight.
• Arrange the formed meatballs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• In a large frying pan, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking.
• Carefully place the meatballs into the pan, leaving space between each one. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust on one side.
• Using tongs, gently shake the pan to loosen the meatballs, then turn each one to cook on the other side for an additional 4 to 5 minutes.
• Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will absorb any excess oil. You can then transfer them to a serving plate or mix them with your favorite tomato sauce to serve over pasta.

Notes

• Tip 1: Refrigerate leftover meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Tip 2: Freeze uncooked meatballs by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing for about 30 minutes.
• Tip 3: For leftovers, reheat in the oven at 170C/350F for 5 to 10 minutes.
• Tip 4: Serve these meatballs over spaghetti or in a sub sandwich for a delicious meal.
• Tip 5: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique twist.

Keyword comfort food recipes, Easy Chicken Meatballs, Healthy Meatball Recipes, Italian Chicken Meatballs

Previous PostLow Carb Keto Paleo Baked Chicken Nuggets

Next Post Instant Pot Honey Chicken Thighs

Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.