Some nights, you want dinner to feel comforting but not heavy. That’s exactly what these low calorie chicken meatballs deliver. Their golden exterior and tender inside make you forget they’re actually pretty light. I remember one evening, juggling a busy day and barely noticing that I had leftovers of these meatballs waiting in the fridge. The aroma of garlic and herbs still lingering made it impossible to resist reheating them for a quick bite. I didn’t time it perfectly, so a few meatballs got a little crispier than planned but honestly, that added a nice texture contrast I hadn’t expected. There’s something about the way the fresh parsley and subtle Parmesan blend together that keeps you coming back for just one more.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a fast dinner solution, these meatballs are surprisingly versatile. They’re easy to pair with whatever you have on hand—maybe a side salad, roasted veggies, or even tucked inside a sandwich if you’re feeling a bit indulgent. I usually keep some olive oil handy for a quick brush before baking; it helps them brown just right and stay moist, but you can skip it if you’re in a rush. The balance of lean chicken and whole wheat breadcrumbs makes them filling without weighing you down, perfect for those evenings when you want to feel good about your meal.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Light and flavorful—filling without the heaviness that comes with traditional meatballs.
- Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners less stressful.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Easy to customize if you want to swap herbs or add a touch more spice.
If you’re new to cooking with ground chicken, don’t worry—these meatballs come together smoothly, and the oven does most of the work. You can feel confident even if you haven’t made them exactly like this before.
PrintLow Calorie Chicken Meatballs
These low calorie chicken meatballs are a healthy and flavorful option for a light meal or appetizer. Made with lean ground chicken and simple seasonings, they are easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4
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
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing 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 spoon.
Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil to help them brown and keep moist during baking.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Kitchen Notes: I usually bake these meatballs on parchment paper to keep cleanup easy, and it helps prevent sticking without extra mess. Sometimes I’ll add a splash of lemon juice after baking to brighten the flavors, but that’s just me. If you want a little twist, mixing in a bit of finely grated zucchini or swapping parsley for cilantro can change the vibe without much fuss. Leftovers reheat well, though I find reheating in the oven preserves their texture better than the microwave. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, serving them over zoodles or a bed of quinoa gives a fresh take on a classic.
FAQ:
Can I freeze these meatballs? Yes, they freeze well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight before reheating.
What if I don’t have whole wheat breadcrumbs? Regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers can work—just watch the moisture balance.
Are these meatballs spicy? Not at all. They’re mild but flavorful, so you can add chili flakes if you want some heat.
Ready to bring something light and tasty to your table tonight? Give these low calorie chicken meatballs a try—you might just find your new favorite quick dinner.