These Cheddar Bay Chicken Meatballs are a fun and tasty twist on a classic. Packed with cheesy goodness and topped with buttery flavors, they’re sure to please your taste buds!
I love how juicy and delicious these meatballs are! They’re great with pasta or just on their own. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps these meatballs light and flavorful. If you prefer, turkey or lean ground beef can work as a substitute. Just be mindful of cooking times, as beef may take a bit longer to cook through.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for a milder cheese, Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses works nicely too!
Breadcrumbs: Seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor. If you don’t have any, plain breadcrumbs with a pinch of Italian herbs will work. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be swapped for those with dietary needs.
Old Bay Seasoning: This classic seasoning mix gives an amazing depth to the meatballs. If you can’t find it, create your own mix with a blend of celery salt, black pepper, cayenne, and paprika.
Milk: I usually use whole milk for added creaminess, but any milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can substitute, depending on your preference.
How Do You Avoid Tough Meatballs?
A common challenge is making sure meatballs stay tender and moist. Follow these tips:
- Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a rubbery texture due to the protein in meat.
- Form the meatballs gently using your hands, without packing them too tightly.
- Bake at the right temperature; 400°F helps them cook through while getting a nice browning on the outside.
Let them cool a few minutes after baking—I promise it’s worth the wait! Enjoy your deliciously tender meatballs!
How to Make Cheddar Bay Chicken Meatballs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Extras:
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 18-20 minutes to cook in the oven. So, you’ll have delicious Cheddar Bay Chicken Meatballs ready in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will help keep your meatballs from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, beaten egg, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This is where all the flavor comes from! Give it a good mix, but be careful not to over-mix, or your meatballs could be tough.
3. Add Milk and Butter:
Now it’s time to pour in the milk and melted butter. Mix everything together until combined nicely, ensuring all ingredients are well distributed.
4. Form the Meatballs:
With clean hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced out a bit.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the meatballs bake for 18-20 minutes. They should be cooked through and have a lovely golden brown color on the outside.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re done, take the meatballs out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle. Just before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, you’re ready to serve your Cheddar Bay Chicken Meatballs! Enjoy them warm, either on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice. They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a little extra milk or butter to keep the meatballs moist.
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
To make Cheddar Bay Chicken Meatballs gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also use almond flour or oat flour for a different texture, just ensure they are certified gluten-free!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage! To freeze, place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months!
Can I Prepare the Meatball Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance. Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, shape the mixture into meatballs and follow the baking instructions as usual!
