Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids

Recipe Image
Image: eatinspired.com / All Rights reserved
These kid-friendly chicken meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and packed with hidden vegetables that even the pickiest eaters won’t detect. Making them has become my go-to solution for busy weeknight dinners since they can be prepared in advance and frozen for up to three months. As a mom of three young children, I’ve found these meatballs to be a lifesaver – they’re perfect for school lunches, after-school snacks, or served over pasta for a quick family dinner. My kids love helping to roll the meatballs, making it a fun cooking activity we can do together on weekend afternoons.


Ingredient List

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko style)
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 large beaten egg
  • 1/2 cup grated parm cheese
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp powdered garlic
  • 1 can cooking spray

Preparation Time 10-15 minutes
Cooking Time 20-25 minutes
Total Time 30-40 minutes
Level of Difficulty Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400℉ (200℃) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, milk, kosher salt, garlic powder, egg, and olive oil. Let mixture rest for a few minutes to allow bread crumbs to absorb liquid.
  3. Add ground chicken and optional parmesan cheese to the bread crumb mixture. Mix until well combined.
  4. Using a cookie scoop, portion mixture into 18-20 uniform balls. Roll each portion into smooth balls with slightly wet hands to prevent sticking.
  5. Arrange meatballs on prepared baking sheet and lightly spray tops with non-stick cooking spray for better browning.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes. For extra browning, broil for final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully. Serve with marinara, ranch, or honey mustard sauce, or use in pasta dishes or subs.

Recipe Image
Image: eatinspired.com / All Rights reserved

Recipe Image
Image: eatinspired.com / All Rights reserved

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