Homemade Ground Chicken Meatballs for Dogs

Dogs make every day brighter—whether it’s the wagging tail that greets you at the door, the soft nudge when they want a treat, or the goofy spin they do when excited. Food is one of the most meaningful ways we connect with them, and that’s exactly how this recipe came to life.

For years, Bentley, my loyal companion, adored these homemade chicken meatballs. Every time I pulled them out of the oven, his eyes lit up and the happy dance began. After Bentley passed, I tucked this recipe away for a while—it held too many memories. Recently, I decided to try them again for Snickers, and to no surprise, he loved them just as much.

These meatballs aren’t just snacks—they’re a symbol of care. They’re simple, wholesome, and filled with nutritious ingredients most pet parents already keep in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a homemade way to spoil your dog while also knowing exactly what’s going into their food, this recipe is for you.

Why Homemade Dog Treats Matter

Commercial dog treats line the shelves with bright packaging and clever slogans, but many of them contain fillers, preservatives, or unnecessary additives. While these may be safe in moderation, nothing compares to the control you have when you prepare food at home.

• Transparency of ingredients: You know exactly what goes into each meatball.
• Better nutrition: Lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy binders mean you’re feeding your pup vitamins and fiber, not artificial flavors.
• Personalization: You can adjust the recipe to fit your dog’s size, energy level, or dietary needs.
• Bonding: There’s something deeply rewarding about cooking for your dog, watching them enjoy it, and knowing it came directly from your hands.

Homemade treats like these chicken meatballs aren’t just food—they’re a gesture of love.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe is straightforward, requires just a few steps, and can be baked in the oven or cooked in the air fryer. The base is lean ground chicken, boosted with vegetables, oats, and a touch of yogurt for gut health.

The result? Tender, nutrient-packed meatballs that are perfectly sized for dogs of all breeds. You can serve them as occasional treats, training rewards, or as a supplement to your dog’s regular meals. They also freeze beautifully, making them ideal for meal prepping.

Ingredients and Their Benefits

Each ingredient serves a purpose—not just to hold the recipe together, but to improve your dog’s health and well-being.

• Ground Chicken (1 lb.)
  A lean, high-protein option that supports muscle maintenance and overall strength without adding excess fat.
• Large Egg (1)
  Rich in protein and essential amino acids, eggs also contribute healthy fats for skin and coat health.
• Plain Low-Fat Yogurt (2 tbsp.)
  A natural source of probiotics, yogurt aids digestion, supports gut health, and strengthens the immune system.
• Rolled Oats (¼ cup)
  Provides gentle fiber for healthy digestion and steady energy release. Oats are especially good for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Grated Zucchini (¼ cup)
  Hydrating, low in calories, and packed with vitamins like vitamin C and potassium.
• Grated Carrots (¼ cup)
  A great source of beta-carotene, antioxidants, and vitamin A—supporting vision and immunity.
• Dried Parsley (1 tbsp., optional)
  Adds freshness, antioxidants, and can naturally improve breath.

How to make Ground Chicken Meatballs for Dogs

Making ground chicken meatballs for dogs is simple and wholesome. Combine lean ground chicken with egg, yogurt, oats, zucchini, and carrots for balanced nutrition. Shape into small balls and cook until golden and fully done, either by baking or air frying. Cool completely before serving, ensuring a healthy, tail-wagging treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Oven Method

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, the egg, and yogurt. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add oats, zucchini, carrots, and parsley. Stir until evenly combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape.

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs
Scoop out portions with a tablespoon or small cookie scoop. Roll gently between your palms to form even-sized balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake
Cook for 30 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow to cool fully on a wire rack before serving.

Air Fryer Method

Step 1: Prepare Meatballs
Follow the same mixing and shaping steps as above.

Step 2: Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook in Batches
Arrange meatballs in a single layer, leaving space for airflow.

Step 4: Air Fry
Cook for about 10 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the meatballs cool before offering them to your dog.

Storage Tips

One of the best parts about this recipe is its storage flexibility.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Lasts up to 3 months.

For best results, form the meatballs into portions before freezing. That way, you can thaw just what you need without waste.

Serving Guidelines

Every dog is unique—what’s right for one might be too much for another.

• Small breeds: 1 meatball as a treat.
• Medium breeds: 1–2 meatballs.
• Large breeds: 2–3 meatballs.

Always start small, especially if this is your dog’s first time trying homemade treats. Watch for any changes in digestion or energy and adjust portions accordingly.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of homemade dog food is flexibility. Try these variations:

• Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey or lean beef for chicken.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, peas, or sweet potato for extra nutrients.
• Grain-Free: Replace oats with coconut or almond flour.

Nutritional Benefits at a Glance

• Protein Power: Chicken and egg build muscle and provide essential amino acids.
• Digestive Health: Oats, zucchini, and yogurt support a healthy gut.
• Immune Support: Carrots and parsley deliver antioxidants and vitamins.
• Energy Balance: A perfect mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

FAQs

Recipe Card

Homemade Ground Chicken Meatballs for Dogs

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (oven) / 10 minutes (air fryer)
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: About 20–24 meatballs

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground chicken
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp. plain low-fat yogurt
• ¼ cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup grated zucchini
• ¼ cup grated carrots
• 1 tbsp. dried parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheet.
2. Mix chicken, egg, and yogurt.
3. Stir in oats, zucchini, carrots, parsley.
4. Shape into meatballs.
5. Bake 30 minutes (oven) or air fry 10 minutes at 400°F.
6. Cool fully before serving.

Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Bentley may no longer be here to enjoy these meatballs, but his memory lives on in every batch I make. Watching Snickers crunch happily into one reminded me why homemade treats matter. They’re not just food—they’re moments of love, connection, and care.

If you’re looking for a wholesome way to spoil your pup, these ground chicken meatballs are as good as it gets: simple to make, packed with nutrients, and guaranteed to bring a wagging tail to your kitchen.