Description
Looking for a healthier take on classic meatballs? These chicken and zucchini meatballs are the perfect blend of juicy ground chicken, nutrient-packed zucchini, and flavorful spices. They’re easy to make, versatile, and ideal for everything from weeknight dinners to meal prep. Serve them with marinara sauce, in a sub, or as a quick and delicious appetizer!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 small or 1 large zucchini)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ¼ cup milk (any type)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for the zucchini)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for greasing the pan)
- 1 lb. ground chicken (or turkey)
Optional for Serving:
-
- Marinara sauce
- Cooked pasta or sub rolls
- Fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini onto a clean kitchen towel or cloth napkin using a box grater.
- Spread the grated zucchini into a thin layer and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out the moisture.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and grease it lightly with olive oil.
- Make the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix until evenly combined.
- Wring out the zucchini in the towel over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible, then add it to the bowl.
- Add the ground chicken and mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls about 1 ½ inches in diameter (makes approximately 20 meatballs).
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For extra browning, broil the meatballs for the last 3–5 minutes of cooking.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over pasta, in a sub, or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to add Italian seasoning, chili flakes, or fresh herbs to the meatball mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
- Storage Tips: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: Pan-fry the meatballs in olive oil for a crispier exterior or air-fry them for a quick alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American