When it comes to comfort food, few things satisfy like a juicy chicken meatball. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and exotic or classic and comforting, these 18 flavorful recipes with chicken meatballs are sure to hit the spot. From Thai-inspired curries to Italian-style pasta dishes, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world and explore some of the most mouthwatering ways to enjoy chicken meatballs.
In our collection, you’ll find recipes that range from quick and easy weeknight dinners to show-stopping main courses perfect for special occasions. With flavors like teriyaki, lemon-herb, and buffalo sauce, there’s something for every taste bud. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Spicy Thai Chicken Meatball Curry
This spicy and flavorful curry recipe combines tender chicken meatballs with a rich and aromatic sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its bold flavors and vibrant colors, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, ginger, curry powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chilies and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in coconut milk, water, and curry powder. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add meatballs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Meatball Pasta
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Meatball Pasta Recipe
This comforting pasta dish combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy twist, featuring chicken meatballs smothered in a rich parmesan sauce. A perfect meal for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, combine chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and top with meatballs. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Meatball Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these sweet and savory Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Meatball Skewers. A perfect combination of Asian-inspired flavors and classic meatballs, these bite-sized treats are sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 8-10 portions and shape each into a meatball.
4. Thread meatballs onto skewers, leaving a small space between each ball.
5. Brush with Teriyaki glaze (made by whisking together equal parts soy sauce and honey) during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes for grilled or baked meatballs. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Meatball Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful soup! This recipe combines the richness of chicken meatballs with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and basil. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, and baked meatballs. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Meatball Pita Wraps
These flavorful wraps combine juicy chicken meatballs with creamy tzatziki sauce, crunchy cucumbers, and crispy pita bread for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Cucumber slices
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, and olive oil in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble wraps by spreading tzatziki sauce, adding meatballs, cucumber slices, and feta cheese crumbles (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sliders
Elevate your slider game with these Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sliders, packed with spicy flavor and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (Buffalo wing sauce)
– 12 slider buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 12-15 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with Buffalo wing sauce.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a few meatballs on each bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and blue cheese crumbles if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatball Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple and the tanginess of vinegar with crispy chicken meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, and olive oil. Mix well and shape into meatballs (about 12-15).
3. Cook the meatballs for 5 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet and sour sauce, cornstarch, and water. Pour into the pan with vegetables and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Return the cooked meatballs to the pan and stir-fry for another minute to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Meatball Spaghetti
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Chicken Meatball Spaghetti! This recipe combines the flavors of savory chicken meatballs, aromatic garlic butter, and al dente spaghetti for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add reserved pasta water and whisk to combine.
7. Combine cooked meatballs and spaghetti in the skillet. Toss until well coated with garlic butter sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Meatball Pizza
This mouthwatering pizza combines the savory flavors of BBQ chicken meatballs with the comfort of melted mozzarella cheese and tangy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup BBQ chicken meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Arrange BBQ chicken meatballs evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Spread tomato sauce over the meatballs.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Meatball and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe combines juicy chicken meatballs with a colorful medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory stir-fry. Serve over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
6. Add bell pepper, carrot, and meatballs to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Meatball Banh Mi Sandwich
This Vietnamese-inspired sandwich combines flavorful chicken meatballs with the crunch of pickled carrots and daikon, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 baguette slices
– Pickled carrot and daikon mixture (store-bought or homemade)
– Mayonnaise or sriracha mayo (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, honey, scallions, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise or sriracha mayo on each slice, followed by a meatball and pickled carrot and daikon mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Meatball Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transforming bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal, this recipe combines the juiciness of chicken meatballs with the crunch of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped into quarters
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 16) and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet; roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Stuff each bell pepper quarter with 2-3 meatballs and spoon marinara sauce over the top.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Meatball and Rice Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines juicy chicken meatballs with flavorful rice, cheese, and savory sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 20-25).
4. In a separate dish, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange meatballs on top of the rice mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Meatball Lettuce Wraps
A twist on traditional wraps, these chicken meatball lettuce wraps combine the flavors of Italian-style meatballs with fresh and crunchy lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
5. Warm marinara sauce according to package instructions.
6. Assemble wraps by placing a few meatballs onto a lettuce leaf, followed by a spoonful of warmed marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese (if using). Fold the lettuce leaves in half to enclose.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Meatball and Couscous Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of chicken meatballs, couscous, and a tangy dressing for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook couscous according to package instructions using water or broth.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil. Toss to combine.
7. Add the chicken meatballs to the salad and toss gently.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Meatball and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken meatballs with nutty quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a tangy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, this bowl is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and olive oil in a bowl. Form into meatballs (about 12).
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
4. Roast bell pepper, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes.
5. Grill or bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes.
6. Combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and tomato sauce in a bowl. Top with chicken meatballs.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Meatball and Spinach Lasagna
Savor the flavors of Italy with this creative twist on a classic lasagna recipe, featuring chicken meatballs and wilted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic. Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and spinach. Simmer over medium heat until spinach is wilted.
7. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 cooked lasagna noodles on top. Repeat with a layer of meatballs, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with a final layer of noodles and sauce.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Chicken Meatball and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken meatballs with creamy risotto and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In the same skillet, cook chopped onion and mushrooms over medium-low heat until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously until liquid is absorbed, about 20-25 minutes or until risotto is creamy.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the ultimate guide to delicious chicken meatballs! This collection of 18 mouth-watering recipes will take your meal game to the next level. From spicy Thai curry to creamy parmesan pasta, and from teriyaki glazed skewers to zesty lemon soup, there’s something for every taste and craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick stir-fry or a hearty casserole, these flavorful recipes are sure to satisfy your appetite. Try them out and get ready to fall in love with the perfect combination of chicken and meatballs!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
