Description
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic meatballs. Made with ground chicken, bright lemon zest and juice, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs, they’re perfectly tender and seasoned with just the right amount of black pepper. Cooked on the stovetop until golden and juicy, they make a versatile main dish or appetizer that’s quick to prepare and great for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt. Mix together gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
- Form the Meatballs: Use a scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs, aiming for about 16 total. This size helps them cook evenly while staying juicy.
- Heat the Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
- Cook the Meatballs: Add the meatballs in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve Warm: Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet. Optionally garnish with additional parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. These meatballs are delicious on their own or served over rice, pasta, or zucchini noodles.
Notes
- These meatballs are excellent served over rice, pasta, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
- If you prefer baking, cook the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatballs tender and moist.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption of ground chicken.
