Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs Simple and Delicious Recipe

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If you’re looking for a quick, tasty meal, you’ve come to the right place! My Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs are simple to make and packed with flavor. In this post, I’ll share step-by-step instructions, tips to keep them tender, and ways to customize your meatballs. Whether you’re a home cook or just hungry, this dish will impress everyone at your table. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan creates a savory and aromatic experience that is truly irresistible.
  2. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs can be on your table in no time.
  3. Versatile Dish: These meatballs can be served on their own, with pasta, or even in a sub sandwich, making them perfect for any occasion.
  4. Healthy Option: Using ground chicken makes these meatballs a leaner choice, packed with protein and flavor without excess fat.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 lb ground chicken

– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– 1 egg, beaten

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

– Marinara sauce (for serving)

Measurements and Substitutions

You can swap ground chicken for turkey or lean beef. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. If you want more flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or chives.

Optional Add-ins

You can mix in some chopped spinach or grated carrot for extra nutrients. A dash of lemon zest gives a fresh twist. If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes. These simple changes keep the recipe fun and delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Mixture

To start, gather all your ingredients. You will need ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, an egg, salt, and pepper. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan. Next, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Crack the egg into the mixture. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Now, you will want to mix everything gently using your hands. Be careful not to over-mix. This keeps your meatballs soft and tender.

Cooking the Meatballs

Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to cook. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet. While the oil heats, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches wide. Carefully place them in the skillet once the oil is hot.

Cook the meatballs for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You want them to be browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F. Once cooked, take them out and set them aside.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, you can warm up marinara sauce in the same skillet. This adds extra flavor. Serve the meatballs with the marinara on the side or over your favorite pasta. For a nice touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top.

You might also want to pair your meatballs with crusty bread. This makes for a filling meal everyone will enjoy.

Tips & Tricks

How to Keep Meatballs Tender

To keep your meatballs tender, avoid over-mixing the meat. When you combine the ingredients, use your hands gently. This way, your meatballs will stay light and soft. Another tip is to add breadcrumbs. They soak up moisture and help keep the meatballs juicy. You can also add a little extra olive oil to the mix. This adds fat, which keeps the meatballs moist.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley. Fresh herbs add brightness and depth. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a rich, salty flavor. If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes. This gives a nice kick without being too spicy. Marinara sauce is a great pair, too. It adds a tangy flavor that complements the meatballs well.

Cooking Tips for Consistency

For even cooking, make sure your meatballs are all the same size. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter. This helps them cook at the same rate. Preheat your skillet well before adding the meatballs. A hot skillet gives a nice brown crust. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side. This ensures they are fully cooked and have a great texture. Keep an eye on the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safe eating.

Pro Tips

  1. Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and light.
  2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and other herbs elevate the flavor; consider adding basil or thyme for extra depth.
  3. Check Temperature: Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
  4. Serve with Style: Drizzle marinara sauce over the meatballs and garnish with extra parsley for an appealing presentation.

Variations

Alternative Protein Choices

You can switch the ground chicken for other proteins. Ground turkey works well and tastes great. Ground pork adds a nice flavor too. If you want something leaner, try ground beef. Each option brings its unique taste, so feel free to experiment. Just remember to adjust cooking times if needed.

Vegetarian or Vegan Options

To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, use plant-based ground meat. Brands like Beyond Meat or Impossible Foods are great choices. You can also use mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture. Replace the egg with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. This helps bind the ingredients without using animal products.

Flavor Profile Variations

Mix up the flavors by changing the herbs. Try basil, cilantro, or even rosemary for a new twist. Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a smoky touch. You might want to increase the red pepper flakes for more heat. Experiment with different cheeses too, like feta or goat cheese, for a unique taste. These variations keep your meals exciting and fresh!

Storage Info

How to Store Meatballs

You need to store your garlic herb chicken meatballs in the fridge. First, let them cool down. Then, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. If you have leftover marinara sauce, store it in a separate container. Proper storage keeps your meatballs tasty for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat meatballs, you have a few options. You can use the microwave for a quick meal. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them. Heat for about 1-2 minutes or until warm. If you want a crisp texture, use a skillet. Heat a bit of olive oil in the pan. Add the meatballs and cook until they are hot and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes.

Freezing Tips

Freezing meatballs is simple and smart. First, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date. Frozen meatballs can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What can I serve with garlic herb chicken meatballs?

You can serve garlic herb chicken meatballs with many sides. Pasta is a classic choice. Toss it with marinara sauce for a hearty meal. You can also pair them with crusty bread. This helps soak up the sauce. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. Try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables work well too. They add color and flavor to your plate.

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and form the meatballs. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for one to two days. You can also freeze them for later use. Place uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw and follow the cooking steps.

How long do garlic herb chicken meatballs last in the fridge?

Garlic herb chicken meatballs last about three to four days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. If you want them to last longer, freezing is a great option.

In this blog post, we covered making tasty garlic herb chicken meatballs, from the ingredients to tips for perfecting the dish. You learned about measurements, cooking, and great serving ideas. Remember, using fresh ingredients and avoiding overcooking keeps your meatballs tender and flavorful. Experiment with variations like vegetarian options or different proteins for fun twists. Lastly, store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Enjoy creating your meatball masterpiec

- 1 lb ground chicken - 1/4 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1 egg, beaten - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking) - Marinara sauce (for serving) You can swap ground chicken for turkey or lean beef. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. If you want more flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or chives. You can mix in some chopped spinach or grated carrot for extra nutrients. A dash of lemon zest gives a fresh twist. If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes. These simple changes keep the recipe fun and delicious! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, gather all your ingredients. You will need ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, an egg, salt, and pepper. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan. Next, add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Crack the egg into the mixture. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Now, you will want to mix everything gently using your hands. Be careful not to over-mix. This keeps your meatballs soft and tender. Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to cook. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet. While the oil heats, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches wide. Carefully place them in the skillet once the oil is hot. Cook the meatballs for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You want them to be browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F. Once cooked, take them out and set them aside. For serving, you can warm up marinara sauce in the same skillet. This adds extra flavor. Serve the meatballs with the marinara on the side or over your favorite pasta. For a nice touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top. You might also want to pair your meatballs with crusty bread. This makes for a filling meal everyone will enjoy. To keep your meatballs tender, avoid over-mixing the meat. When you combine the ingredients, use your hands gently. This way, your meatballs will stay light and soft. Another tip is to add breadcrumbs. They soak up moisture and help keep the meatballs juicy. You can also add a little extra olive oil to the mix. This adds fat, which keeps the meatballs moist. To boost flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley. Fresh herbs add brightness and depth. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a rich, salty flavor. If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes. This gives a nice kick without being too spicy. Marinara sauce is a great pair, too. It adds a tangy flavor that complements the meatballs well. For even cooking, make sure your meatballs are all the same size. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter. This helps them cook at the same rate. Preheat your skillet well before adding the meatballs. A hot skillet gives a nice brown crust. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side. This ensures they are fully cooked and have a great texture. Keep an eye on the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safe eating. Pro Tips Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and light. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and other herbs elevate the flavor; consider adding basil or thyme for extra depth. Check Temperature: Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. Serve with Style: Drizzle marinara sauce over the meatballs and garnish with extra parsley for an appealing presentation. {{image_2}} You can switch the ground chicken for other proteins. Ground turkey works well and tastes great. Ground pork adds a nice flavor too. If you want something leaner, try ground beef. Each option brings its unique taste, so feel free to experiment. Just remember to adjust cooking times if needed. To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, use plant-based ground meat. Brands like Beyond Meat or Impossible Foods are great choices. You can also use mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture. Replace the egg with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. This helps bind the ingredients without using animal products. Mix up the flavors by changing the herbs. Try basil, cilantro, or even rosemary for a new twist. Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a smoky touch. You might want to increase the red pepper flakes for more heat. Experiment with different cheeses too, like feta or goat cheese, for a unique taste. These variations keep your meals exciting and fresh! You need to store your garlic herb chicken meatballs in the fridge. First, let them cool down. Then, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. If you have leftover marinara sauce, store it in a separate container. Proper storage keeps your meatballs tasty for up to three days. To reheat meatballs, you have a few options. You can use the microwave for a quick meal. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them. Heat for about 1-2 minutes or until warm. If you want a crisp texture, use a skillet. Heat a bit of olive oil in the pan. Add the meatballs and cook until they are hot and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Freezing meatballs is simple and smart. First, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date. Frozen meatballs can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. You can serve garlic herb chicken meatballs with many sides. Pasta is a classic choice. Toss it with marinara sauce for a hearty meal. You can also pair them with crusty bread. This helps soak up the sauce. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. Try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables work well too. They add color and flavor to your plate. Yes, you can make meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and form the meatballs. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for one to two days. You can also freeze them for later use. Place uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw and follow the cooking steps. Garlic herb chicken meatballs last about three to four days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Always check for any off smells or changes in color before eating. If you want them to last longer, freezing is a great option. In this blog post, we covered making tasty garlic herb chicken meatballs, from the ingredients to tips for perfecting the dish. You learned about measurements, cooking, and great serving ideas. Remember, using fresh ingredients and avoiding overcooking keeps your meatballs tender and flavorful. Experiment with variations like vegetarian options or different proteins for fun twists. Lastly, store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Enjoy creating your meatball masterpiece!

Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs

Delicious chicken meatballs infused with garlic and herbs, perfect for serving with marinara sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 0.25 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • to serve Marinara sauce

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes if using.
  • Add the beaten egg to the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
  • Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  • Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
  • Once the oil is hot, form the chicken mixture into meatballs (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and carefully place them in the skillet.
  • Cook the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  • Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, you can add marinara sauce to warm it up before serving, if desired.
  • Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce on the side or over pasta, garnishing with additional fresh parsley and Parmesan.

Notes

Arrange the meatballs on a platter, drizzle with marinara, and sprinkle with extra parsley and Parmesan for an appealing presentation. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, garlic, herbs, meatballs

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