Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids

Let me tell you about my ongoing battle to get my kids to eat healthy dinners. For years, plain chicken breast was met with dramatic sighs and pushing food around the plate. Then one day, I switched to ground chicken and everything changed. My daughter actually asked for seconds! Now this simple ground chicken recipe is our go-to on busy weeknights – it’s quick, kid-approved, and doesn’t leave me feeling guilty about serving chicken nuggets for the third time that week. If you’re looking for a way to make dinner less of a struggle, this might be exactly what you need.

Possible Ingredient Alternatives

Minced chicken can be replaced with ground turkey for a similar lean protein option. Turkey has a mild flavor that appeals to children and offers comparable nutritional benefits. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe.

Panko crumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free alternative. These options provide similar texture and binding properties. Adjust the quantity slightly if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Milk can be swapped with unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. These alternatives work well in binding ingredients and add moisture. Use the same amount as the original recipe suggests. When using plant-based milk, you may need to add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

Preparation Time	10-15 minutes
Cooking Time	20-25 minutes
Total Time	30-40 minutes
Level of Difficulty	Easy

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 800-900
• Protein: 75-85 g
• Fat: 45-55 g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 g

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

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃).

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spray it with non-stick spray to ensure the meatballs don’t stick while baking.

Step 2: Mix the Bread Crumb Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the bread crumbs, milk, kosher salt, garlic powder, egg, and olive oil.

Stir the ingredients together and let the mixture sit for a few minutes.

This allows the bread crumbs to absorb the liquid and become more cohesive.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Add the ground chicken and optional parmesan cheese to the soaked bread crumb mixture.

Mix everything until it comes together into a cohesive meatball mixture.

If you’re concerned about the parmesan for picky eaters, feel free to omit it.

The recipe will turn out beautifully regardless!

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Portion out the meatball mixture into evenly sized portions to ensure they cook evenly.

Using a cookie scoop can help create uniform meatballs.

Aim to make between 18-20 meatballs.

Roll each portion into smooth balls.

A Pro Tip: wetting your hands slightly can make the rolling process easier as it prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Place the rolled meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.

Lightly spray the tops of the meatballs with non-stick spray.

This step helps the meatballs achieve a nice golden brown finish while baking.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

For an extra golden finish, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Once done, serve the meatballs as is with a side of dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard.

They also make a delicious addition to spaghetti with sauce or in a meatball sub.

Enjoy!