WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
If you love flavorful meals that are easy to make, you’re in for a treat! Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs pack a punch of taste with fresh garlic and herbs. This recipe is simple and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these meatballs will impress everyone. Let’s get started on making a delicious dish that’s sure to be a hit!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan brings amazing flavor to these chicken meatballs.
- Healthy Option: Using ground chicken makes these meatballs a leaner alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Versatile Serving: These meatballs can be served with marinara sauce, in a sub, or over pasta, allowing for endless serving possibilities.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Additional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Seasoning and Cooking Essentials
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
The main ingredients for these garlic herb chicken meatballs start with ground chicken. It gives the meatballs a light texture and a mild flavor. Mixing in minced garlic adds a punch of taste that makes them special. Fresh parsley and basil bring brightness and freshness to each bite.
Next, we have the additional ingredients. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory note. Breadcrumbs help bind everything together and give a nice texture. The egg acts as a binder too, making sure the meatballs hold their shape.
For seasoning, I use olive oil to cook the meatballs. The oil helps them brown nicely. Dried oregano brings an earthy flavor that matches well with chicken. Salt and pepper are must-haves to enhance all the flavors. Together, these ingredients create a simple yet delicious dish that you can enjoy anytime.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps the meatballs not stick and makes cleanup easier.
2. Mix the meatball ingredients in a large bowl: In a big bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, and 1/4 cup of chopped basil. Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 beaten egg. Season with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything well until combined.
Forming and Cooking the Meatballs
1. Roll the meat mixture into balls: Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each meatball on your prepared baking sheet. Space the meatballs about an inch apart to allow them to cook evenly.
2. Brown meatballs in a skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning them until they are browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and a nice texture.
Baking to Perfection
1. Transfer meatballs to the oven: Once browned, carefully move the meatballs back to the prepared baking sheet.
2. Check for doneness and serving temperature: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. You can use a meat thermometer to check if they reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve the meatballs warm with marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy your delicious garlic herb chicken meatballs!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Techniques
To get the best flavor, brown the meatballs first. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add the meatballs and cook them for about 5-6 minutes. Turn them often until they are golden brown. This gives a nice crust and locks in juices.
For even cooking in the oven, space the meatballs on the baking sheet. Leave about an inch between each ball. This allows hot air to flow around them. Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Check that they are no longer pink in the center.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add more spices to boost flavor. Try a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. If you like a stronger taste, use fresh herbs. Mix in thyme or rosemary with the parsley and basil.
Adjusting the texture can also make a difference. If you want meatballs to be softer, add more breadcrumbs. If you prefer them firmer, use less. Each change will give you unique meatballs.
Presentation Ideas
How you serve the meatballs can impress your guests. You can arrange them on a platter with warm marinara sauce. Drizzle the sauce over the meatballs for extra flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Chopped parsley or basil adds freshness. You can also sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top. This will make your dish not only tasty but also beautiful.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs will provide a vibrant flavor compared to dried ones. Consider using them whenever possible for the best taste.
- Keep Meatballs Uniform: Ensuring each meatball is the same size allows for even cooking. Use a cookie scoop for consistent portions.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the meatballs tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to serve.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the ground meat to fit your taste. Ground turkey works well with this recipe. You can also use lean beef or pork. If you want a plant-based option, try ground chickpeas or lentils. These swaps keep the meatballs tasty and fun.
For cheese lovers, you might want to skip dairy. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative. There are many options like cashew cheese or almond cheese. These choices still give a creamy texture without the dairy.
Flavor Profile Variations
If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes. This spicy twist gives the meatballs a nice kick. Just sprinkle in a teaspoon or more, depending on your taste.
Another option is to switch up the herbs. Instead of parsley and basil, you can use Italian seasoning. This blend adds a rich flavor to your meatballs. Just replace the fresh herbs with about two teaspoons of the mix.
Preparation Methods
You can also try cooking these meatballs in a slow cooker. Just mix everything, form the meatballs, and place them in the cooker with some sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method makes them super tender and juicy.
If you want a quicker method, use a grill or air fryer. For the grill, preheat and cook the meatballs for about 10 minutes, turning often. In an air fryer, set it to 400°F and cook for around 10-12 minutes. Both methods give a nice crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store cooked meatballs, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. You can keep them in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, it’s best to freeze them.
Freezing Instructions
For freezing, let the meatballs cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1 to 2 hours until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Meal Prep Suggestions
You can use these meatballs in many meals. Serve them with pasta, in a sandwich, or on a salad. Leftovers work well in wraps or as a snack. You can even add them to soups for a hearty meal. Be creative and enjoy your garlic herb chicken meatballs in different ways!
FAQs
Common Questions About Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs
Can I use frozen ground chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. You can leave it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual.
What’s the best way to tell if meatballs are cooked through?
The best way is to check the inside for no pink color. You can also use a meat thermometer. A safe temperature is 165°F (74°C). This ensures the meatballs are safe and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
What sides pair well with meatballs?
Meatballs pair great with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Garlic bread also makes a lovely side. You can try roasted vegetables for a healthy option as well.
Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make meatballs in advance. Just form them and store them in the fridge for up to a day. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just thaw and cook when ready.
Cooking Alternatives
How to adjust the recipe for a smaller batch?
To make a smaller batch, just cut the ingredients in half. You can easily adjust the amounts. This way, you still get delicious meatballs without leftovers.
Can I bake without browning first?
Yes, you can bake them without browning. Just place the meatballs on the baking sheet and bake longer, about 15-18 minutes. They may not be as crispy but will still taste great.
This blog post covered how to make delicious garlic herb chicken meatballs. We explored the main and extra ingredients, along with essential seasonings. You learned the step-by-step instructions for mixing, forming, and cooking your meatballs. We also shared tips for flavor enhancements and effective storage techniques.
Don’t hesitate to try variations that fit your taste. With these tips, you’ll create tasty meatballs every time. Now, you have everything needed to impress at your next meal. Enjoy cookin
Garlic Herb Chicken Meatballs
Delicious chicken meatballs infused with garlic and fresh herbs, perfect for serving with marinara sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- to taste Marinara sauce (for serving)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Scoop out a portion of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and roll it into a ball. Place the meatball on the prepared baking sheet, and repeat with the remaining mixture, spacing the meatballs about an inch apart.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs (in batches if necessary) and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
Transfer the browned meatballs back to the baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping or pouring over.
Arrange the meatballs on a serving platter, drizzled with a bit of marinara sauce and garnished with additional chopped herbs for a burst of color.
Keyword chicken, garlic, herbs, meatballs
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?