Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dinner option, you’ve landed in the right place. These Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs are not just bursting with flavor; they are also packed with nutritious ingredients that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, these meatballs are a fantastic choice that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs. First off, the combination of ground chicken with fresh vegetables like zucchini and carrot adds a nutritious twist to a classic dish. The vibrant basil pesto brings a burst of flavor that elevates the meatballs to gourmet status without any fuss. Plus, they are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier option that still delivers on taste and texture. You can serve them with pasta, in a salad, or even as a party appetizer. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredient Rundown

To make these delectable Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken – The base of the meatballs, lean and flavorful.
• 1 cup grated zucchini – Adds moisture and nutrition without altering the flavor.
• 1 medium carrot, grated – A touch of sweetness and extra vitamins.
• 1/4 cup basil pesto – The star ingredient that brings everything together.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the mixture for perfect meatballs.
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs – Provides structure and texture.
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese – Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – A subtle kick to the meatballs.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses the meatballs with aromatic goodness.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes – A hint of heat to balance the flavors.

Equipment & Tools

To whip up these Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

• Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
• Baking sheet – To bake the meatballs evenly.
• Parchment paper – Optional, but it makes for easy cleanup.
• Grater – To grate the zucchini and carrot.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.

Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs, Made Easy

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Grate the zucchini and carrot using a box grater or food processor. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent the meatballs from being too wet.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, grated carrot, basil pesto, egg, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture and form it into meatballs. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter for even cooking. Place the meatballs on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half – it should be no longer pink inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them with your favorite pasta, salad, or on their own as a tasty snack. Drizzle with extra pesto or top with more parmesan if desired!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, you can still enjoy these meatballs with a few simple substitutions:

• Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a lower-carb option.
• Swap out the grated zucchini for grated cauliflower to reduce carbs further.
• Serve with zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
• Make a creamy pesto sauce with heavy cream to pair with the meatballs for added richness.

Cook’s Commentary

• If you find the mixture too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help with the binding.
• These meatballs freeze beautifully. Just make sure to cool them completely before storing.
• Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
• For a more intense flavor, use homemade pesto instead of store-bought.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Planning ahead? These Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs are perfect for meal prep!

• You can make the meatball mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
• Cooked meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen.
• Reheat cooked meatballs in the oven or microwave before serving for a quick meal.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut one meatball in half to ensure no pink remains inside.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair beautifully with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as appetizers with toothpicks and some extra pesto for dipping!

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for more quick and delicious dinner ideas, check out these recipes:

• One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken – A simple yet flavorful dish.
• 30-Minute Vegetable Stir-Fry – Packed with fresh veggies.
• Creamy Tuscan Salmon – An elegant meal in no time.
• Sheet Pan Fajitas – Easy and full of flavor.

See You at the Table

These Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs are not only a delightful dish but also a wonderful way to sneak in some extra veggies into your meals. With their rich flavor and tender texture, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your loved ones around the table, serve up these meatballs, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. Happy cooking!