Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids Recipe
These Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids are a healthy and delicious option featuring tender minced chicken blended with panko crumbs, aromatic garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Baked to golden perfection, they are easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and versatile for dipping sauces or pasta dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 18-20 meatballs 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 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)
For Baking
- Cooking spray (non-stick spray)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (200℃). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Mix the Bread Crumb Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the panko crumbs, milk, kosher salt, garlic powder, beaten egg, and olive oil. Stir well and let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the bread crumbs absorb the liquid, resulting in a cohesive base for the meatballs.
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: Add the ground chicken and grated parmesan cheese (if using) to the soaked bread crumb mixture. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients form a uniform, sticky mixture suitable for shaping.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the mixture into about 18-20 evenly sized portions to ensure uniform cooking. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. Wetting your hands slightly helps prevent sticking and makes shaping easier.
- Prepare for Baking: Arrange the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the meatballs with non-stick spray to help achieve a golden brown crust during baking.
- Bake and Serve: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. For a crispier and more golden finish, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Serve the meatballs warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard, or add them to pasta or sandwiches for a hearty meal.
Notes
- For picky eaters, you can omit the parmesan cheese without compromising flavor significantly.
- Wetting your hands slightly when shaping the meatballs prevents the mixture from sticking and makes rolling smoother.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatball sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the meatballs while broiling to avoid burning them due to high heat.
- Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
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