These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a fun twist on the classic dish! Juicy chicken is mixed with cheese and herbs, then baked until golden and bubbly.
They’re perfect for a cozy dinner or as a tasty appetizer. I love slathering them in marinara sauce and melting mozzarella cheese on top. Yum! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! Ground chicken is lean and juicy. For a richer flavor, try using ground turkey or even a mix of beef and pork if you’re feeling adventurous.
Italian-style Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and texture. You can use plain breadcrumbs with added Italian herbs if you don’t have the seasoned variety. Gluten-free breadcrumbs also work if you’re avoiding gluten.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. Pecorino Romano can be a great substitute, offering a sharper taste. Or, if you want a more mild cheese, use grated cheddar.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a nice freshness to the meatballs. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, but use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the taste but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just remember that 1/8 tsp of garlic powder equals about 1 clove of fresh garlic.
How Do I Get the Meatballs to Hold Together?
Getting meatballs to hold their shape can be tricky! Follow these tips to keep them perfect:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Gently combine the ingredients just until everything is incorporated.
- Chill the formed meatballs in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps them firm up.
- If pan-frying, make sure your oil is hot enough to sear the outside without cooking them through.
Whether you’re baking or frying, aim for even sizes; it ensures they cook uniformly. Enjoy making these delicious meatballs! 🍽️
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Additional Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Olive oil for frying (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake. You can enjoy these tasty chicken Parmesan meatballs in just about 45 minutes total! Perfect for a quick family dinner or a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your meatballs cook evenly and turn out nice and crispy. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps the meatballs stay tender!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Try to make them uniform so they cook evenly. Place the meatballs on a plate or tray as you go.
4. (Optional) Brown the Meatballs:
If you want extra flavor, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and lightly brown them on all sides for about 2 minutes per side. This step is optional; you can bake them straight away if you prefer a lighter option.
5. Assemble in the Baking Dish:
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. This keeps the meatballs moist as they cook.
6. Place the Meatballs:
Carefully place the meatballs in the sauce. Spoon more marinara sauce over the top, making sure they are well covered.
7. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and some extra Parmesan cheese evenly over the meatballs. This will make them cheesy and delicious!
8. Bake:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs should be cooked through, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly with some golden spots.
9. Garnish:
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. It also makes the dish look nice!
10. Serve:
Enjoy these meatballs hot, either alone or paired with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. They’re sure to be a hit!
Bon Appétit! Enjoy your delightful Chicken Parmesan Meatballs! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground chicken. It has a slightly different flavor but will work well in this recipe. Just ensure that it’s lean to keep the meatballs moist!
How Can I Freeze Leftover Meatballs?
To freeze leftovers, allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use store-bought pasta sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce. Alfredo sauce can also be an interesting twist if you’re in the mood for something creamy!
How Do I Know When the Meatballs Are Done?
The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check, or cut one open to ensure it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
