Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan Meatballs bring the beloved flavors of Chicken Parmesan to a more convenient and fun-to-eat form. The chicken meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and coated with the same savory, cheesy goodness you love in the classic dish. They’re baked to perfection, so they’re healthier than frying, yet still deliver that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, meal prep, or a party appetizer, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For topping:

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overmix.

3. Form the meatballs: Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should have about 16-18 meatballs.

4. Bake the meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

5. Top with sauce and cheese: Remove the meatballs from the oven. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce over each meatball, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

6. Melt the cheese: Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with extra marinara sauce or over a bed of pasta.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 (about 4-5 meatballs per serving)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add some heat: Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or marinara sauce to give the meatballs a spicy kick.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs to make the meatballs gluten-free.

• Make them mini: For bite-sized appetizers, make smaller meatballs and adjust the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes.

• Vegetarian version: Replace the ground chicken with a plant-based meat substitute, such as crumbled tofu or lentils, to make the dish vegetarian.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Parmesan Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave them for 1-2 minutes or heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, adding a bit of extra marinara sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken. The flavor and texture will be very similar.

2. Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs before baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to cook, bake from frozen for about 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

3. How do I prevent the meatballs from being dry?

The breadcrumbs and egg help keep the meatballs moist. If you’re using lean ground chicken, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk or olive oil to the mixture for extra moisture.

4. Can I fry these meatballs instead of baking them?

Yes, you can pan-fry the meatballs. Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then fry the meatballs in batches for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the baked meatballs for up to 3 months.

6. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce is a convenient option, but feel free to use homemade sauce for a more personalized touch.

Conclusion 

Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful. They take the best parts of Chicken Parmesan and turn them into bite-sized, juicy meatballs that are easy to prepare and great for any meal. Whether you serve them with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. This simple yet tasty dish is a great way to bring a fresh twist to a classic favorite!

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