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Homemade Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs photo

Baked Chicken Pesto Meatballs

Juicy baked chicken meatballs flavored with basil pesto and Parmesan, ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 cup grated zucchini
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup basil pesto
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • box grater
  • Large mixing bowl
  • spatula or hands
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon
  • Baking Sheet
  • parchment paper or nonstick spray
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick spray.
  2. Grate the zucchini and carrot using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini on a paper towel and gently pat to remove excess moisture.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, grated carrot, basil pesto, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until evenly combined, taking care not to overwork the meat.
  5. Scoop heaping 1.2 tablespoon (about 2-inch / golf ball size) portions and roll into balls. Place meatballs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. You should get about 22 meatballs.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, until the meatballs are golden on top and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Serve the meatballs immediately plain or toss with additional pesto or tomato sauce and pasta, if desired.

Notes

  • Patting the zucchini dry prevents soggy meatballs.
  • Do not overmix to keep meatballs tender.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure 165°F internal temp.
  • Make evenly sized meatballs for uniform cooking.