Not knowing what to give a dog for a special treat can feel a bit like staring into an empty fridge—uninspiring. But this simple homemade recipe is such a game-changer.
These chicken cranberry meatballs are soft, healthy, and made with just a few wholesome ingredients. They’re filled with lean protein, nutrient-rich greens, and a burst of antioxidants from fresh cranberries—basically, a bite-sized ball of goodness.
What’s great is how simple they are to prep, even on a busy afternoon. And if there’s a picky pup in the house, these meatballs still tend to get tail wags of approval.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- ½ cup fresh cranberries, finely chopped
- 1½ cups coconut flour
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
Pro Tips
- Chop cranberries finely This helps avoid large tart pieces and makes each bite even more pup-friendly.
- Use a cookie scoop for shaping Keeps all the meatballs the same size so they bake evenly and look extra neat.
- Cool completely before serving It’s tempting to hand one over fresh from the oven, but a cooled meatball is a safe meatball.
- Start slow with new ingredients Even healthy ingredients can be new to a dog’s diet. Testing one or two meatballs first is a safe way to go.
- Store in single-serve portions This makes grabbing a treat or snack way quicker on busy days—and prevents overfeeding.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Oven
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground chicken can be swapped for ground turkey or lean ground beef
- Spinach can be replaced with chopped kale (just be sure it’s cooked down and drained)
- Coconut flour can be subbed with oat flour or almond flour if needed
- Want to add more nutrition? Try mixing in shredded carrots or zucchini
Make-Ahead Tip
Form the meatballs and freeze them raw on a lined baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them into a zip-top freezer bag. When ready to bake, add 3–5 extra minutes to the cook time—no need to thaw.
How to Make Chicken Cranberry Meatballs
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix everything together in a large bowl: ground chicken, spinach, cranberries, coconut flour, and flaxseed. Stir until fully combined.
- Scoop and roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs using a cookie scoop or spoon. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden.
- Cool completely before serving to avoid any hot centers.
Nutrition Facts (Per Meatball – Approximate)
- Calories: 83
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 34mg
Leftovers and Storage
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- In the freezer: Freeze cooled meatballs in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months
- To reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly before serving (room temperature is best for dogs)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can dried cranberries be used instead of fresh? Fresh cranberries are best. Dried ones often contain added sugars and preservatives that aren’t ideal for dogs.
- Are these meatballs safe for puppies? Yes, just be sure to introduce new ingredients slowly and watch for any sensitivity.
- Can eggs be added? Yes, a single egg can help with binding if needed, especially if the mixture feels a little dry.
- How many meatballs should be given at once? Treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories. Always adjust based on size, age, and activity level.
Final Words
These chicken cranberry meatballs are a simple, fun, and healthy way to treat a furry friend. Whether it’s a reward after a long walk or a “just because” moment, they’re sure to be a hit.
Try them out and feel free to drop a comment with any questions or thoughts—sharing how it went might just help another pet parent too.