Chicken Meatballs
Tender, juicy chicken meatballs packed with garlic and herbs instead of salt. This heart-healthy recipe is pan-seared to golden perfection and ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a flavorful, low-sodium meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the meatball mixture
- b.In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, onion powder, oregano, basil, black pepper, and salt.
- c.Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Form the meatballs
- b.Lightly wet your hands with water to prevent sticking.
- c.Portion the mixture into 16 equal parts, about 1.5 tablespoons each.
- d.Gently roll each portion between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the meatballs
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- c.Carefully place the meatballs in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- d.Sear the meatballs for 8-10 minutes, turning them every 2 minutes, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
- e.Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- c.Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite low-sodium pasta sauce or side dish.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most tender meatballs, avoid overworking the meat mixture. Mix only until the ingredients are combined.
- 2Use a small ice cream scoop to create uniformly sized meatballs, which ensures they cook evenly.
- 3To check for seasoning without eating raw chicken, pan-fry a tiny piece of the mixture, let it cool, and taste it before rolling all the meatballs.
- 4These meatballs are great for meal prep. Cook a batch and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- 5For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese, but be mindful of the added sodium.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten free
Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option.
healthyHealthy
Use 99% lean ground chicken or turkey and bake the meatballs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes to reduce fat.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Make mini meatballs by rolling the mixture into smaller, bite-sized balls. They cook faster and are perfect for little hands.
high proteinHigh protein
Use 99% lean ground chicken and add 1/4 cup of unflavored whey protein isolate to the mixture for an extra protein boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Ground chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Heart Healthy
This recipe is very low in sodium, which helps manage blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health.
Rich in Flavor without Salt
Using a generous amount of fresh herbs and garlic provides antioxidants and robust flavor, reducing the need for salt.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, they are a very healthy option. They are made with lean protein, are low in sodium which is good for heart health and blood pressure, and get their flavor from herbs and spices instead of salt.