If you are craving a comforting dish that bursts with fresh flavors and a touch of rustic charm, this Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Tender, juicy meatballs made from lean ground chicken, enriched with vibrant spinach and hearty Parmesan, then baked to golden perfection—it’s the perfect harmony of health-conscious ingredients and rich Italian taste. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, nestled in a sandwich, or simply on their own as an appetizer, these meatballs bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal.

Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe lies in its simplicity, using everyday ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each component not only adds a unique layer of taste and texture, but also ensures the meatballs are tender, moist, and perfectly seasoned.

  • 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold all the meatball ingredients together beautifully.
  • 1 pound ground chicken (93% lean or your preference): The lean protein base, offering a light yet flavorful canvas for the herbs and spices.
  • ½ cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs: Adds a lovely texture while keeping the meatballs light and fluffy.
  • â…“ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a savory, nutty depth that enhances the Italian flavor profile.
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided: Infuses richness and helps keep the meatballs moist during baking.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that lends an earthy, aromatic undertone.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warm, savory notes essential to Italian cooking.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning perfectly.
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just a hint of heat to gently wake up your taste buds.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste, divided: A concentrated burst of tomato flavor that pairs naturally with the meat.
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal essence.
  • 2 ½ cups lightly packed fresh spinach, finely chopped: Sneaks in some green goodness that keeps these meatballs vibrant and healthy.
  • Tomato sauce: For serving alongside, adding saucy richness.
  • Cooked whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or other vegetable noodles: Great options to serve under or beside your meatballs.
  • Buns for sandwiches: If you prefer a handheld meal.
  • Toothpicks (if serving as an appetizer): Perfect for easy, crowd-pleasing finger food.

How to Make Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet. This little prep ensures your meatballs won’t stick and will bake evenly to a perfect golden hue.

Step 2: Combine Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, start by beating your egg until it’s smooth and ready to bind. Then add the ground chicken, whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, finely grated Parmesan cheese, and half of your olive oil. Sprinkle in dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes for that signature Italian kick. Add one tablespoon of tomato paste to infuse rich tomato flavor right inside the meat. Finally, stir in the freshly chopped parsley and finely chopped spinach. Mix everything until all these fantastic ingredients come together harmoniously.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Now, the fun part. Shape the mixture into 12 uniform meatballs—it helps them cook evenly and look inviting. Place them spaced apart in your prepared baking dish. Take the remaining olive oil and tomato paste, whisk them together, and brush this vibrant glaze over the meatballs to lock in moisture and add a shiny finish. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 18 to 22 minutes until they are fully cooked through and slightly golden on top.

How to Serve Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe instantly. Sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley or basil just before serving for a pop of color and brightness. A light dusting of additional Parmesan can add a rich, velvety touch as well.

Side Dishes

These meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Classic whole wheat pasta tossed gently in tomato sauce or olive oil is always a safe and delicious choice. For a lower-carb option, zucchini noodles or other spiralized vegetables complement the flavors while keeping it fresh and light. You can also slide the meatballs into crusty buns to create hearty Italian-inspired sandwiches perfect for casual lunches or dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or serve these as appetizers? Arrange the meatballs on a platter with toothpicks and a bowl of tangy marinara for dipping. You could even serve them over creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for an upscale twist. The Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe is versatile and welcomes your creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover meatballs to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making them ideal for quick meals throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these meatballs later, freezing is a fantastic option. Place them on a lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then move them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, ready to be reheated whenever you crave this comforting dish.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the meatballs in a saucepan covered with tomato sauce or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving directly without sauce to maintain moisture and prevent drying out—your meatballs deserve the best revival possible.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will produce similar results. Just make sure it isn’t too lean, so your meatballs stay moist and tender.

Do I have to use whole wheat breadcrumbs?

Not necessarily. You can substitute with regular panko or even crushed crackers. Whole wheat breadcrumbs add extra fiber and a nuttier flavor but use what you have on hand.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to keep the texture right while making the dish gluten-friendly.

What’s the best way to ensure my meatballs don’t fall apart?

Using an egg and breadcrumbs helps bind the ingredients well. Also, avoid over-mixing the meat mixture, as that can make the meatballs tough and more prone to falling apart.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance before baking?

Definitely! You can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let them come to room temperature briefly before cooking, so they bake evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. With wholesome ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless serving possibilities, it’s a wonderful recipe to add to your cooking rotation. Seriously, once you make these tender, flavorful meatballs, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into making some delicious Italian magic!

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Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 27 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 12 meatballs (serves 12)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs are a healthy, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Made with lean ground chicken, whole wheat breadcrumbs, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, they are seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, then baked to juicy perfection. Quick to prepare and versatile, they can be served over whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or even in sandwiches for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Mixture

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 pound ground chicken (93% lean or your preference)
  • ½ cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
  • â…“ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 ½ cups lightly packed fresh spinach, finely chopped

Topping and Serving

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Tomato sauce, for serving
  • Cooked whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or other vegetable noodles, for serving
  • Buns for sandwiches (optional)
  • Toothpicks, if serving as an appetizer (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet to prevent the meatballs from sticking during baking.
  2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients. In a large bowl, beat the egg until combined. Add the ground chicken, whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, finely grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and finely chopped fresh parsley. Mix everything thoroughly, then fold in the finely chopped fresh spinach until evenly distributed.
  3. Shape the Meatballs. Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into 12 equal-sized meatballs. Arrange them spaced evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Prepare Topping and Brush. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste until smooth. Brush this mixture evenly over the tops of the meatballs to add moisture and flavor.
  5. Bake the Meatballs. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meatballs should be lightly browned and firm to the touch.
  6. Serve. Serve the meatballs hot with your choice of sides such as cooked whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or other vegetable noodles. Alternatively, place them in buns for a delicious sandwich or serve with toothpicks as appetizers with tomato sauce on the side.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes according to taste.
  • You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean ground beef if preferred.
  • Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
  • Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

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