Name: Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound minced chicken; 1/2 cup panko crumbs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 large egg (slightly beaten); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional); Cooking spray (for lining and spraying the meatballs)

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Introduction

Getting kids to eat healthy dinners can be a challenge, but these ground chicken meatballs make mealtime easier and more enjoyable. Quick to prepare and packed with mild flavors, they are perfect for busy weeknights and have won over even the pickiest eaters.

A close-up of a small child's hand holding a single golden-brown baked ball with a bite taken out, showing a soft and fluffy inside texture that is pale and slightly crumbly; the background features a white bowl lined with brown parchment paper filled with many similar golden-baked balls, all round and lightly crispy on the outside, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound minced chicken
1/2 cup panko crumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 large egg (slightly beaten)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (200℃). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the panko crumbs, milk, kosher salt, garlic powder, beaten egg, and olive oil. Stir well, then let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the crumbs absorb the liquid and become cohesive.
Step 3: Add the ground chicken and parmesan cheese to the soaked bread crumb mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until it forms a cohesive mixture. If your kids are picky eaters, you can leave out the parmesan.
Step 4: Portion the mixture into 18-20 even meatballs. Using a cookie scoop helps create uniform sizes. Wetting your hands slightly will make rolling easier and prevent sticking. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
Step 5: Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with non-stick cooking spray to help them develop a golden brown finish while baking.
Step 6: Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes. For extra browning, broil them for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning. Serve warm with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard, or add them to spaghetti or a meatball sub.

Tips & Variations

Substitute ground turkey for ground chicken for a similar texture and flavor that kids enjoy.
Use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of panko crumbs for a gluten-free option, adjusting quantities as needed.
Replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free; add a pinch of sugar to balance flavors if you do.
Wet your hands slightly before shaping meatballs to prevent sticking and make the process smoother.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350℉ (175℃) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through. They also freeze well—place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A white plate lined with crumpled brown parchment paper holds a large pile of golden brown, baked meatballs with a slightly crispy texture on top. The meatballs are round and vary slightly in size, showing a mix of light and darker brown spots from baking. Behind the plate, there is a small white bowl filled with a red dipping sauce, and two more white bowls are blurred in the background. The plate sits on a soft green and white checkered cloth, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing, to ensure the meatballs hold their shape and cook evenly.

How can I make these meatballs more flavorful for adults?

Try adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or basil, some grated onion, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for extra flavor without overwhelming kids.