Dinner

Best Anytime Baked Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Bylilan Sage January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

Introduction

These Best Anytime Baked Chicken Meatballs are a simple and delicious meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Made with lean ground chicken and flavorful seasonings, they bake up moist and tender with minimal effort.

The image shows many small, round meatballs with a golden-brown color and slightly crispy texture on a white marbled surface. The meatballs have uneven, browned spots on their tops and sides, giving a cooked and juicy look. To the top right, there is a white bowl filled with a thick, orange-red sauce with a smooth but slightly chunky texture. The meatballs are scattered loosely around the bowl, taking up most of the space in the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken or turkey
1 egg
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional – makes meatballs more moist and yummy)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste
Additional seasonings optional

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly spray with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, olive oil (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings you like. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Roll the mixture into about 30 small meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and enjoy warm with your favorite sauce or sides.

Tips & Variations

For juicier meatballs, do not overmix the ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
Try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
Serve with marinara sauce, a side salad, or over pasta for a complete meal.
Substitute turkey for chicken if preferred, or try a mix of both for varied flavor.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of many small golden-brown meatballs with a shiny, slightly crispy surface, arranged in a curved line on a metal tray. In the background, there is a white bowl filled with a smooth, thick orange dipping sauce, with a dark spoon resting inside. The surface beneath is white marbled texture. The meatballs show a mix of light tan and darker browned areas, indicating they are cooked well. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake these meatballs without oil?

Yes, the olive oil is optional and mainly adds moisture. The meatballs will still bake well and taste great without it, especially if you use ground chicken with a bit of fat.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

Meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are no longer pink inside. The baking time of 25-30 minutes at 400°F usually ensures they are fully cooked.