30 Minute Baked BBQ Chicken Meatballs

With a perfect blend of ground chicken, spices and tangy sauce, these Baked BBQ Chicken Meatballs are guaranteed to be a hit for any occasion! Serve with your favorite side dishes for a weeknight meal or as an easy party appetizer!

These baked BBQ chicken meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic meatball recipe, offering a leaner protein option without sacrificing flavor. Ground chicken is lower in fat compared to beef or pork, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a healthier option. It’s a fantastic way to lighten up your meals without compromising on taste!

The natural juiciness of chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet BBQ sauce. The chicken absorbs the flavors of the sauce, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful meatballs. The addition of garlic powder, paprika, and breadcrumbs adds depth and texture, which compliments the overall flavor.

I fell in love with these meatballs after making these BBQ Chicken Burgers over and over again. But sometimes I don’t feel like the whole burger – so, hello meatballs! Don’t want a burger or meatballs? Check out this BBQ Chicken Kale Salad!

Not only do these baked BBQ chicken meatballs taste fantastic, but they are also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious protein-packed meal on the table in no time. Simply mix the ground chicken with spices, breadcrumbs, and BBQ sauce, shape them into golf ball-sized meatballs, and bake until golden brown. No complicated techniques or lengthy cooking times are required! Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof.

What to serve with meatballs

There are so many ways to enjoy these easy chicken meatballs. Serve them as an appetizer at your next party, complete with toothpicks for easy snacking, or pair them with a simple caesar salad or sweet grilled corn for a satisfying lunch or dinner. For a more substantial meal, place them in a soft bun, slathered with extra BBQ sauce, and topped with crunchy coleslaw.

These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can even be frozen for future use, making them a convenient option for meal prep. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these baked BBQ chicken meatballs are sure to become a new family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ground chicken meatballs offer a lighter alternative to traditional meatballs, using ground chicken instead of beef or pork.
• The combination of chicken and BBQ flavor is a match made in heaven. The natural juiciness of the chicken, infused with the tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet BBQ sauce, creates mouthwatering meatballs that are packed with flavor.
• With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful protein-packed meal ready in no time!
• Whether you choose to serve them as an appetizer, incorporate them into a salad, or create a chicken meatball sandwich, the options are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Chicken – Serves as the lean protein base for the meatballs, providing a lighter alternative to beef or pork. It adds moisture and texture to the meatballs while absorbing the flavors of the seasonings and BBQ sauce.
• Seasoning (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika) – Salt enhances the overall taste and helps to bring out the natural flavors of the meat. Pepper adds a subtle spiciness and depth to the meatballs. Garlic powder infuses a savory aroma and taste, while paprika contributes a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
• Breadcrumbs – Used as a binder in the meatball mixture, helping to hold the ingredients together and prevent them from becoming too dense. They also add a slight texture to the meatballs.
• BBQ Sauce – Provides a tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile to the meatballs. The sauce not only acts as a glaze for the meatballs but also infuses them with its rich and distinctive taste.

How To Make Baked BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Mix the meatball ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the ground chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, ¼ cup BBQ sauce, and breadcrumbs with your hands until well combined without over-mixing.

Form the meatballs: Wet your hands lightly with water. Form the meatballs with your hands rolling golf ball sized shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.

Toss in the sauce: Toss the meatballs in the remaining BBQ sauce until coated. Serve while hot, and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• To ensure moist and tender meatballs, avoid over-mixing the ground chicken mixture. Over-mixing can result in a tougher texture, so gently combine the ingredients until just evenly incorporated.
• Dampening your hands with water before rolling the meatballs will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands. This makes shaping the meatballs easier and less messy.
• For even cooking and a nicely browned exterior, space the meatballs evenly on the baking sheet, leaving some room between each one. This allows hot air to circulate around them, promoting browning and preventing them from steaming.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that the meatballs are fully cooked. Insert the thermometer into the center of a meatball, and it should register 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to ensure safe consumption.

Variations

• For those who crave some heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture. This will give the meatballs a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ sauce.
• Enhance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce by incorporating a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the meatball mixture. This addition will bring a touch of sweetness and balance out the tanginess of the sauce.
• Amplify the smoky flavor by using smoked paprika. This will intensify the barbecue essence and add smokiness to every bite.
• For a gooey and cheesy surprise, insert a small cube of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, into the center of each meatball before shaping.
• Give the meatballs an Asian twist by substituting the BBQ sauce with a teriyaki glaze. Instead of breadcrumbs, mix in some panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: Allow leftover meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: Once baked and cooled, arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It will yield similar results, providing a lean protein option with a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows for convenient meal planning or party preparations. Simply follow the recipe instructions up until baking, cover the meatballs, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. Choose your favorite brand or flavor to customize the taste according to your preferences.

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