Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken (92/8 lean; ground turkey or ground pork may be substituted)
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning mix (1 standard packet)
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely minced (or dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon minced dried onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil or other favorite oil)
Instructions
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, ranch seasoning mix, parsley, dried onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a wooden spoon or clean hands to gently mix the ingredients together, being careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the Meatballs: Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter), scoop out even portions of the mixture. Roll each portion between lightly oiled or moistened palms to form uniform meatballs. Aim for roughly 18-20 meatballs total, depending on size.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for approximately 10 minutes total, turning and rotating them every 5 minutes to ensure all sides brown evenly and the meatballs cook through.
- Check Doneness: Use a digital thermometer to verify the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Avoid undercooking or overcooking to keep them juicy and safe.
- Serve: Serve the ranch chicken meatballs immediately with bottled ranch dressing or prepare a homemade ranch dip using an additional ranch seasoning packet for dipping.
Notes
- Ground turkey or a ground pork mixture can be used instead of chicken; pork may be less lean.
- To make ahead, double the batch and freeze half for a quick future meal.
- Use a digital thermometer to ensure meatballs reach 165°F internally for food safety.
- Fresh parsley enhances flavor but dried parsley is an acceptable substitute.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on dietary preferences.
- Uniform meatball size is important for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
