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- 1 lb ground chicken - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup marinara sauce - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish When making Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, the right ingredients make all the difference. First, I use ground chicken as my base. It is lean and perfect for meatballs. Next, I add breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. I prefer Italian-seasoned ones for extra flavor. Parmesan cheese is a must for that rich taste. I also chop fresh parsley to add freshness. For seasoning, I use garlic and onion powder for depth. Italian seasoning adds a classic touch. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors. For toppings, marinara sauce is essential. It brings everything together. I then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. It melts beautifully and adds creaminess. Finally, I garnish with fresh basil for that pop of color and flavor. With these ingredients, your Chicken Parmesan Meatballs will be a hit! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the meatballs from sticking and makes clean-up easy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well, but be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Now, using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on the lined baking sheet. Make sure they have space between them for even cooking. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through. While they bake, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it warms through. Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully move them to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Spoon some sauce over each meatball to coat them well. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the meatballs. You can melt the cheese by covering the pot and simmering on low for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, place the skillet in the oven for an extra 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for extra flavor and a pop of color. Enjoy your tasty chicken Parmesan meatballs! Avoiding Overmixing When you mix the meatball ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can make them tough. Combine everything just until it holds together. This keeps the meatballs juicy and tender. Ensuring Even Cooking Make sure your meatballs are uniform in size. Aim for 1.5 inches in diameter. This helps them cook evenly. If some are larger, they may take longer to cook. Use a scoop for consistent sizing. Recommended Pairings These meatballs shine when served with spaghetti or on a sub roll. You can also pair them with a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Serve with crusty bread to soak up that delicious marinara. Tips for Garnishing Fresh basil adds great flavor. Sprinkle some on top just before serving. You can also add extra Parmesan for a tasty touch. A drizzle of olive oil enhances the dish beautifully. Gluten-Free Options To make these meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well. Always double-check the marinara sauce for hidden gluten. Alternative Protein Sources If you want a different flavor, try ground turkey or pork. Both will give a nice twist to the dish. You can even go plant-based with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty option. Pro Tips Don't Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure a tender texture. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley enhances the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs, making your meatballs more vibrant. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Let Them Rest: Allow the meatballs to sit for a few minutes after baking to help retain their juices and flavors. {{image_2}} You can make Chicken Parmesan Meatballs even more exciting. Here are two easy ways: - Adding Spices or Herbs: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also add fresh oregano or thyme for extra flavor. These herbs bring depth and freshness to the dish. - Using Different Cheese: While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic, try using provolone or fontina. Each cheese adds a unique taste and texture. You can even use a blend for more complexity. How you serve these meatballs can change the whole meal. Here are some fun ideas: - Meatball Sub Sandwiches: Place the meatballs in a soft sub roll. Top them with extra marinara and cheese. Toast the sandwich for a crispy finish. This makes a great lunch or casual dinner. - Serving Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or penne. The pasta soaks up the sauce, making every bite tasty. This classic combo is sure to please everyone at the table. You can switch up how you cook the meatballs too. Here are two methods to try: - Air Frying the Meatballs: If you want a healthier option, air fry them. This method cooks the meatballs evenly and gives them a nice crisp without frying in oil. Cook them at 375°F for about 12 to 15 minutes. - Slow Cooking in Sauce: For a hands-off method, slow cook the meatballs in marinara sauce. Just place them in a slow cooker with the sauce and let them simmer on low for 4 to 6 hours. This makes them tender and full of flavor. To keep your Chicken Parmesan Meatballs fresh, use these methods: - Refrigeration Methods: Place the meatballs in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to separate them from the sauce if you want them to stay firm. - Freezing Tips: If you have more than you can eat, freeze them! Place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together. - Best Ways to Reheat Meatballs: The best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in a baking dish with a bit of marinara sauce. Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes. - Avoiding Dryness: To keep them moist, add a splash of water or broth before reheating. This helps the meatballs stay juicy and tender. - How Long They Last in the Fridge: In the fridge, your meatballs will last for about three days. Check for any off smells before eating. - Freezing Duration: If stored correctly, the meatballs can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to label the bag with the date! Chicken Parmesan meatballs are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check. The meatballs should also be golden brown on the outside. If they look firm and not pink inside, they are ready to eat. This ensures they are safe and tasty for you. Yes, you can make Chicken Parmesan meatballs ahead of time. Prepare the meatballs and bake them as directed. After baking, let them cool. Then, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them before reheating. You can serve Chicken Parmesan meatballs with a variety of sides. Some great options include: - Spaghetti or any pasta - Garlic bread for dipping - A fresh green salad - Steamed vegetables for extra crunch These sides add taste and balance to your meal. Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before mixing it into the meatball mixture. It’s best to thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or use the microwave on the defrost setting. This helps ensure even cooking and tasty meatballs. You’ve learned how to make tasty Chicken Parmesan Meatballs. First, gather simple ingredients like ground chicken, herbs, and cheese. Then, follow the steps to mix, bake, and serve. Remember, you can adjust flavors and try different cooking methods to match your taste. Store leftovers properly to enjoy them later. I hope these tips make your meal fun and delicious. Now, get cooking and savor every bite!

Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Delicious meatballs made with ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings, baked and served in marinara sauce with melted mozzarella.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.
  • Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
  • While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
  • Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and carefully place them into the marinara sauce. Gently spoon some sauce over each meatball.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the meatballs and allow it to melt in the sauce, either by covering and simmering on low for about 5 minutes or by placing the skillet in the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves on top for added flavor and color.

Notes

For extra flavor, use freshly grated cheese and homemade marinara sauce if possible.
Keyword cheesy, chicken, Italian, meatballs, parmesan