Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! Made from ground chicken, cheese, and tasty herbs, they are perfect for a family dinner or a fun party snack.
These meatballs pair great with spaghetti or just on their own! I can’t resist sneaking one right off the baking tray. Who can blame me? 🍝
Plus, they are super easy to make. Just mix everything, shape the balls, and bake. They always make me smile, especially when I see everyone enjoying them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This recipe uses ground chicken for a lighter meatball. If you want more flavor, turkey is a good substitute. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use mashed chickpeas or even plant-based ground meat.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan version. Just remember to adjust the salt, as some substitutes can be saltier.
Breadcrumbs: I like using seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Panko breadcrumbs will give the meatballs more crunch, or you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything. If you’re vegan, use a flax seed or chia seed egg. Just mix 1 tablespoon of seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let sit to thicken.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works great, but I often make my own for fresher flavors. You can also substitute it with a creamy tomato sauce or a simple olive oil and garlic sauce for variety.
How Do You Ensure the Meatballs Are Tender?
Getting tender meatballs is key! Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Mix ingredients just until combined—overmixing can make them tough.
- Use moist ingredients like milk or egg to keep them soft.
- Shape them gently; don’t pack too tightly.
- Let them rest for a few minutes before baking to hold their shape.
And finally, bake them at the right temperature. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice golden color without drying out.
Enjoy cooking your Chicken Parmesan Meatballs!
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
Time Estimate
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20-25 minutes for cooking, giving you a total time of about 35-40 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden brown. Grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the meatballs don’t stick.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, milk, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Stir everything gently until well combined, but be careful not to overmix, as that can make your meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into medium-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly on the prepared baking dish, ensuring they’re not touching each other.
4. Bake the Meatballs
Pop the meatballs into the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes or until they are cooked through and lightly golden. You can check they are done when they have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Heat the Marinara Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. You want it to be hot and bubbly by the time the meatballs are done!
6. Combine and Serve
Once the meatballs are cooked, take them out of the oven. Spoon the warm marinara sauce generously over the top of each meatball. Then, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top and return the dish to the oven for another 5 minutes to melt the cheese slightly.
7. Final Touches
After baking, remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Parmesan Meatballs as a hearty meal or a scrumptious appetizer!
Enjoy your tasty Chicken Parmesan Meatballs! 💖
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can sometimes be a bit drier, so you may want to add a little extra moisture, like an additional tablespoon of milk.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze very well! Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Parmesan Meatballs?
They are delicious served over spaghetti, zoodles (zucchini noodles), or even in a sub sandwich. Add a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal!
