30-minute Cheesy Pesto Chicken Meatballs

These 30-minute Cheesy Pesto Chicken Meatballs are a must-make for dinner this week! A meal prep dream for a juicy, tender and flavorful chicken meatballs. Made with gluten-free and grain-free ingredients for a delicious healthy dinner idea!

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor, these pesto chicken meatballs are the perfect solution. Made with juicy ground chicken, aromatic pesto, and a touch of Parmesan cheese, these oven-baked meatballs are easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal-prep staple. Not to mention they are totally kid-friendly over here!

Why You’ll Love These Pesto Chicken Meatballs

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these meatballs are easy to whip up.

• Healthy and Protein-Packed: Ground chicken is a lean protein option that pairs beautifully with nutrient-rich pesto.

• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them over pasta, on a salad, or enjoy them on their own.

• Baked to Perfection: No need for frying—just pop them in the oven for a hands-off cooking method.

Let’s get started on this simple and flavorful recipe!

Ingredients You Need

• Ground chicken – A lean and mild protein that pairs well with pesto.
• Egg – Helps bind the meatballs together.
• Almond flour or breadcrumbs – Adds structure and helps absorb moisture.
• Shallot – Brings a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor.
• Pesto – Use homemade or store-bought for that herby, garlicky goodness.
• Grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami-rich depth to the meatballs.
• For serving: spaghetti or pasta of choice! Traditional spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or even mashed potatoes work great to switch things up.

How to Make Pesto Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, almond flour (or breadcrumbs), minced shallot, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Using clean hands or a spoon, mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into 1-inch meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the meatballs to the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you want a slightly crispier exterior, broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Toss the cooked meatballs with extra pesto or serve them over your favorite pasta. For added flavor, sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Ways to Serve Pesto Chicken Meatballs

These pesto chicken meatballs are super versatile! Here are a few serving ideas:

• Classic Pasta Dish: Serve them over spaghetti with a drizzle of extra pesto or marinara sauce.

• Zucchini Noodles: A lighter, low-carb option that still tastes amazing.

• On a Salad: Toss them on a fresh green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic dressing.

• As an Appetizer: Stick toothpicks in them and serve with a side of marinara or extra pesto for dipping.

• In a Sandwich: Make a meatball sub with toasted bread and melted mozzarella.

Tips for the Best Pesto Chicken Meatballs

1. Use High-Quality Pesto

If using store-bought pesto, choose a high-quality brand with fresh basil, nuts, and real Parmesan. Alternatively, make your own by blending basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. I usually make my Kale Pesto recipe!

2. Don’t Overmix the Meat Mixture

Overmixing the ingredients can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix just until combined for tender, juicy meatballs.

3. Bake Instead of Frying

Baking keeps the meatballs lighter and requires less oil while still achieving a nice golden-brown exterior.

4. Make Ahead and Freeze

These meatballs freeze beautifully! After baking, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

5. Add Extra Cheese for a Gooey Twist

If you love cheesy meatballs, try stuffing each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella for a melty surprise inside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe and has a similar texture and flavor profile.

How Can I Make These Meatballs Dairy-Free?

Omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free pesto alternative. Nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for that cheesy flavor.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat These Meatballs?

To keep them moist, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them in short intervals.

Can I Air Fry These Meatballs?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

In Summary

These pesto chicken meatballs are an easy, delicious, and versatile dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you’re serving them over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, they deliver bold flavors with minimal effort.

Next time you’re in need of a quick, protein-packed meal, give these meatballs a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Have you made these pesto chicken meatballs? Let me know in the comments how you served them!

A Few Other Meatball Recipes to Try

30-minute Chicken Shawarma Meatballs

Delish Broccoli Cheddar Meatballs (gluten-free)

Oven-Baked General Tso’s Meatballs

DELISH One-pot Enchilada Meatballs (gluten-free)