Chicken Meatballs & Green Peas

Chicken Meatballs & Green Peas – A Clean, Healthy Dinner Idea for Babies 8-9 months of age

Finding dinner ideas that work for babies, especially ones that aren’t just purées or bland finger foods can be a real challenge. You want something soft, nourishing, and easy to chew, but also flavorful enough for older kids and adults. That’s why this chicken meatballs and green peas recipe is such a win. It’s incredibly simple, yet the result is so satisfying. The mild spices, tender meatballs, and sweet peas come together in a dish that babies genuinely enjoy, and the fact that it’s one meal the whole family can share makes it even more special. When something this easy also tastes this good, it’s an instant keeper.

Why Chicken Meatballs & Green Peas?

• Delicious – Mildly seasoned with natural sweetness from the peas, it’s a hit with babies, toddlers, and adults alike.

• One-pan meal – Less mess and minimal cleanup mean more time to enjoy dinner as a family.

• Healthy – Made with lean ground chicken, fiber-rich peas, and anti-inflammatory turmeric, it’s packed with nutrition.

• Great for meal prep – Cook a big batch and reheat throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

• Freezer-friendly – Freeze extra meatballs in sauce and just warm when needed – perfect for busy days.

With protein, iron, fiber, and essential vitamins all in one dish, you’re getting a complete and balanced meal in every bite. It’s the kind of go-to dinner that makes feeding the family feel simple, nourishing, and stress-free.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Ground chicken is a lean source of protein and iron, essential for babies’ growth and brain development.

• Egg adds protein, choline, and healthy fats.

• Peas are high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and provide plant-based protein.

• Turmeric offers anti-inflammatory benefits while still being safe for young children.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish is soft in texture, mild in flavor, and easy to chew, making it especially well-suited for:

• Babies 8-9+ months: Mash or cut the meatballs and peas into small pieces and spoon-feed with a little broth.

• Toddlers: Serve with rice, quinoa, or soft bread for a complete meal.

What You Need:

Deep Frying Pan with lid (oven-safe)- I used stainless steel for this recipe.

Ingredients & Substitutions:

This simple dish uses everyday ingredients that are easy to keep on hand. Here’s what you’ll need, plus some ideas for substitutions if you’re working with what you’ve got:

• Ground Chicken – You can use either ground chicken breast or thigh meat. Thigh tends to be juicier and more flavorful, while breast is leaner. You could also substitute with ground turkey if needed.

• Onion – Finely chopped onion adds depth and natural sweetness to the sauce. For picky eaters or younger babies, you can grate the onion for a smoother texture. Shallots or leeks work too.

• Green Peas – Fresh or frozen peas are both great options. They’re naturally sweet and soft, making them perfect for babies and toddlers. I don’t recommend substituting the peas in this recipe.

• Breadcrumbs – These help bind the meatballs and keep them tender. You can use regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free breadcrumbs depending on dietary needs.

• Egg – Essential for binding the meatballs. If you’re avoiding eggs due to allergies, try using a flax egg or mashed potato with a little oil as a binder instead.

• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the onions. You can substitute with avocado oil or butter based on your preference.

If you enjoyed this recipe, here are some more healthy baby dinner ideas you should check out:

Healthy Salmon Dinner 

Turkey Meatballs

Frozen Peas & Carrots Meal

Easy Chicken Drumsticks