This Michael Symon Chicken Meatballs recipe is a wonderful take on a classic homey “meat” dish.
The combo of ground chicken, fresh herbs, and a touch of Parmesan makes these meatballs oh-so flavorful!
I recommend baking the meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet for easy cleanup and even cooking.
These meatballs are not only easy to prepare, but they also pack a punch of flavor thanks to the addition of parmesan and fresh herbs.
To get the best results, always soak your breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes to help bind everything together and keep your meatballs perfectly soft.
How to Make Michael Symon Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- 1 Egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Nutmeg (grated)
- 1 Onion (grated)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with grated onion, ricotta, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Worcestershire.
Step 3:
Add the egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the mixture and combine everything until it’s well mixed.
Step 4:
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5:
Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Check the Seasoning
Taste the meat mixture before forming it into balls to check the seasoning level.
Remember that you can always add a little more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
Chill the Mixture
If you find the meat mixture is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes.
This will make shaping the meatballs much easier and less messy.
Use a Scoop
To achieve evenly sized meatballs, use a small ice cream scoop.
This method is faster and helps to ensure that the meatballs cook evenly in the oven.
Experiment with Herbs
Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like parsley or basil to the meat mixture.
You can include them to introduce fresh flavors and a little color to your dish.
Adjust Cooking Time
Keep an eye on the temperature of your oven since faster cooking can lead to drier meatballs.
It might require some adjustment to cook the meatballs perfectly golden brown.
What to Serve with Michael Symon Chicken Meatballs
Spaghetti
When it comes to Michael Symon Chicken Meatballs, spaghetti is a classic that never gets old.
The tender texture of the meatballs pairs wonderfully with al dente pasta and a rich tomato sauce.
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, and toss it gently with your favorite marinara sauce.
Garlic Bread
You can’t go wrong with garlic bread, offering a crisp and buttery texture.
Its warm, aromatic flavors perfectly round out your meal and provide a satisfying crunch on the side.
Slice a baguette, brush it with garlic butter, and toast it until golden brown.
Roasted Vegetables
For a healthier side, roasted vegetables complement the meatballs well by adding color and nutrients to your plate.
Choose your favorite seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions, and roast them with olive oil and herbs.
This also adds a beautiful array of colors to your meal, making it visually appealing.
Lemon Couscous
Lemon couscous is not only light and fluffy but also a surprising twist when you serve it with chicken meatballs.
Prepare the couscous with chicken broth, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped herbs to infuse it with flavor.
The citrusy notes of lemon couscous brighten up the meatballs beautifully.
Thai-Inspired Salad
A Thai-inspired salad can bring a refreshing zing when paired with chicken meatballs.
Use fresh ingredients like shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro, then add a light dressing made of lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar.
This salad introduces a fresh and exciting element.
Variations and Substitutions
Exploring Ingredient Swaps
You can experiment with different cheeses in the meatballs.
Try using feta or even a sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
Alternative Seasonings
Adding a dash of chili powder or cumin can bring a smoky heat to the dish.
Fresh herbs like basil or coriander also offer vibrant flavors.
Adjusting the Texture
If you prefer a softer texture, replace some of the breadcrumbs with cooked rice.
For extra moisture, consider incorporating some sautéed mushrooms.
Customizing with Additional Ingredients
Incorporate vegetables like finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini for added nutrition.
Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can infuse your meatballs with bold, delicious flavors.
How to Store Leftover Michael Symon Chicken Meatballs
I know what it’s like to have extra delicious chicken meatballs and the desire to keep them fresh for later.
Make sure you first let the cooked meatballs cool completely before storing.
Separate Components
If your meatballs are paired with sauce, store them separately.
Keeping them separate helps preserve their unique textures and flavors.
This simple step can make all the difference when you reheat them later.
Use Airtight Containers
Place your cooled meatballs in a shallow, airtight container.
Tightly sealing them prevents moisture and unwanted odors from altering their taste.
Proper container choice is essential for maintaining quality in the fridge.
Refrigeration Timeline
You can safely keep your meatballs in the refrigerator for three to four days.
Make sure to mark the date when storing for a helpful reminder.
Always prioritize freshness by consuming them within this timeframe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Keep It Juicy
You want to avoid using lean meats like ground turkey.
Lean meats can result in dry meatballs.
Go for ground chicken with some fat content to maintain juiciness.
Over-Mixing the Mixture
Over-mixing the ingredients can ruin texture.
You should mix until just combined.
This keeps them light and tender!
Skipping the Temperature Check
Checking the internal temperature is really important!
Always aim for 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken meatballs.
This way, you’ll know they’re safe to eat and delicious.
Michael Symon Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1 Egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Nutmeg grated
- 1 Onion grated
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with grated onion, ricotta, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Worcestershire.
- Add the egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the mixture and combine everything until it’s well mixed.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.