Sometimes, after a long day, you just want something comforting without feeling weighed down. These low calorie chicken meatballs are that quiet answer. Simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor, they slip effortlessly into your routine, whether it’s for a quick dinner or a snack that won’t derail your goals.
The first time I made these, I was juggling work emails and dinner plans, feeling a bit scatterbrained. I remember the scent of garlic and parsley filling the kitchen, a small comfort amid the chaos. I wasn’t precise about the size of the meatballs—some were a little bigger than others—but that just made each bite a surprise. By the time they came out of the oven, golden and tender, I was ready to sit down and savor something that felt both nourishing and indulgent. It wasn’t perfect, but it was real, and that day, it was exactly what I needed.
- Leans into fresh, simple ingredients without fuss.
- Light enough to enjoy as a snack yet satisfying enough for dinner.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point.
- Great for batch cooking, though reheating can sometimes dry them out a bit if you’re not careful.
If you’re worried about the texture, these meatballs hold together nicely even if you skip the breadcrumbs—though they do add a subtle chewiness that’s hard to beat.
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Low Calorie Chicken Meatballs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
These low calorie chicken meatballs are a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or snack. Made with lean ground chicken and simple ingredients, they are easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground chicken
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, whole wheat breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly spray the meatballs with cooking spray to help them brown.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Kitchen Notes: No fancy equipment needed here—just your hands or a scoop to shape the meatballs. They pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a light dinner. Sometimes I toss a few into a sandwich or wrap for a quick lunch on the go, though that means the meatballs get a bit smooshed. You could swap the parsley for cilantro or add a pinch of chili flakes if you want a little kick, but honestly, the classic herbs work perfectly well.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely. They keep well in the fridge for a couple of days and freeze nicely too. Just reheat gently to avoid drying out.
What’s the best way to reheat? Oven reheating works best to keep the outside from getting rubbery. Microwaving is faster but can compromise texture.
Can I use ground turkey instead? You can, but the texture might be a bit drier; I usually add a touch more moisture if I do.
Are these spicy? Not as written, but you can add spices to suit your taste.
Give these meatballs a try when you need something simple but satisfying. They might not be fancy, but they’re honest, tasty, and exactly what a low-key evening calls for.