In cartilage research, three-dimensional (3D) culture models are pivotal for assessing chondrogenic differentiation potential. Standard pellet cultures, despite their utility, pose challenges like uneven differentiation and handling difficulties. This study explores the use of Matrigel, an extracellular matrix-based hydrogel, to encapsulate fibronectin adhesion assay-derived chondroprogenitors (FAA-CPs) and evaluate their chondrogenic differentiation potential.