Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids

If you’re looking for a fun and healthy dinner option that your kids will actually eat, look no further! These Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids are a game-changer in our household. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they’re also easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I can’t count how many times these meatballs have saved us from the dreaded “What’s for dinner?” panic!

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can whip up a batch in just 30 minutes, and they freeze beautifully for meal prep. Plus, they’re a hit with everyone – even the pickiest eaters!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, this meal fits perfectly into any hectic schedule.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The combination of garlic powder and cheese makes these meatballs irresistible to little ones.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Made with ground chicken and simple ingredients, you can feel good about serving these at the dinner table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them over pasta, in a sandwich, or on their own with dipping sauce!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: They freeze well, so you can double the batch for easy meals later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids are made with simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the 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
• Cooking spray

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

One of the best things about these meatballs is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor.
• Add some veggies: Finely chop spinach or zucchini and mix it in for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try mozzarella or cheddar if parmesan isn’t your favorite.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian herbs for an extra kick.

How to Make Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important because a hot oven helps the meatballs cook evenly and gives them a nice golden color.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken, panko crumbs, milk, kosher salt, garlic powder, beaten egg, olive oil, and grated parmesan cheese. Mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender meatballs!

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls—about the size of golf balls. This size is perfect for little hands to hold! Place them on a lightly greased baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Pop those meatballs into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until they’re cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. These meatballs are delicious on their own or served with marinara sauce. Enjoy watching your kids gobble them up!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids

Making meals that kids will love can be a fun challenge, and these tips will help you create delicious ground chicken meatballs that they won’t resist!

• Choose lean ground chicken – Using lean ground chicken not only keeps the meatballs healthier but also ensures they remain tender and juicy without excess fat.
• Mix ingredients gently – Over-mixing can lead to tough meatballs. Stir the mixture just until combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Use a cookie scoop – This handy tool helps you portion out the meatballs evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly and are the perfect size for little hands.
• Bake instead of fry – Baking the meatballs creates less mess and allows for even cooking, plus it keeps them healthier than frying.
• Get kids involved – Letting your children help shape or season the meatballs not only makes cooking fun but also encourages them to try new foods.

How to Serve Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids

Presentation can make a world of difference when it comes to getting kids excited about dinner. Here are some fun ways to serve those tasty meatballs!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil – A sprinkle of chopped herbs adds color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing.
• Grated cheese – A light dusting of grated cheese right before serving gives an extra layer of flavor that kids adore.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli – This nutritious green veggie is quick to prepare and complements the flavors of the meatballs beautifully.
• Mashed sweet potatoes – Creamy and naturally sweet, mashed sweet potatoes are both comforting and packed with vitamins. They can also be seasoned with a bit of cinnamon for added flavor.
• Whole-grain pasta with marinara sauce – A classic pairing, whole-grain pasta provides fiber and pairs perfectly with meatballs, especially if you drizzle some homemade marinara on top!
• Carrot sticks with hummus – Crunchy carrot sticks served with a side of hummus make for a healthy finger food option that’s fun to dip into.

With these serving ideas, your Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy mealtime together!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids are not only a hit at the dinner table but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week, making healthy eating a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For easy access, consider portioning them out into single servings.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat your meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids that might help you out!

Can I make Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids ahead of time?

Absolutely! These meatballs can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above for best results.

What can I serve with Ground Chicken Meatballs for Kids?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with spaghetti, rice, or even a fresh salad. Serve with marinara sauce or your kids’ favorite dipping sauces!

How do I keep Ground Chicken Meatballs moist?

To ensure your Ground Chicken Meatballs remain juicy, don’t skip the milk and olive oil in the recipe. They add moisture and flavor that your kids will love!

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want to switch things up while keeping it healthy and kid-friendly.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your family dinner time! These Ground Chicken Meatballs are not just delicious; they’re also packed with goodness that kids will enjoy. Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers, they’ll quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy making these with your little helpers, and don’t forget to have fun along the way! Happy cooking!