Description
These Pesto Chicken Meatballs are a delightful and flavorful dish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup additional basil pesto (for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s essential to get the oven nice and hot so that the meatballs bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden color. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will prevent sticking and make for an easier cleanup later on.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, plain breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, basil pesto, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; this can lead to tough meatballs. The mixture should be well-combined but still slightly loose.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on the lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each to allow for even cooking. If you want a little extra flavor, brush or drizzle a bit of olive oil over the meatballs before they go in the oven.
- With the oven set and the meatballs arranged, it’s time to bake! Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they are cooked through and have a lovely golden hue on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- While the meatballs are baking, take the extra pesto and warm it up in a small saucepan or microwave. This step is optional but adds a nice touch when serving. Once the meatballs are out of the oven, drizzle the warmed pesto over them for an added burst of flavor.
- Serve your Pesto Chicken Meatballs hot, drizzled with the additional basil pesto. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves and some extra grated Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds layers of flavor.
Notes
Be sure to use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor; homemade pesto can take these meatballs to the next level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Protein: 20 g