These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a fun twist on a classic dish! They are juicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a hit for dinner or as a party snack.
Let’s be real, who can resist a meatball covered in warm marinara and melty cheese? I love to serve them with spaghetti or as tasty bites on toothpicks. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of our meatballs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey works great too! You can also use ground beef or pork if you prefer a richer flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I like Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but plain breadcrumbs are just fine. For a gluten-free version, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan really enhances the flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a tasty substitute. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option for a cheesy flavor.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a nice freshness. If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can work in a pinch—just use less since it’s more concentrated.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade is always best, but store-bought can save you time. Look for a brand with natural ingredients and no added sugars for a healthier choice.
What’s the Best Way to Shape and Cook Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs can be tricky, but here’s how to get perfect ones every time. Remember to keep your hands moistened; this helps prevent the meat from sticking.
- Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the meatballs, aiming for about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- To brown meatballs evenly, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Give them space to cook properly.
- Cook until golden brown on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. This adds flavor, but they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
With these tips, your meatballs will come out deliciously every time! Enjoy making them your own!
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll be enjoying these delicious Chicken Parmesan Meatballs in about 45 minutes total. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help ensure the meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden brown color.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, milk, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are well combined but be careful not to overmix!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs that are about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased lightly. This will prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze!
4. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd the skillet!). Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning to brown on all sides. This step adds flavor and texture!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a baking dish and pour your marinara sauce evenly over the top. This will help keep them juicy while they bake!
6. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be sure to check with a meat thermometer to be safe!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and sliced fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the meatballs warm, ideally over pasta, with garlic bread, or as delightful appetizers that everyone can enjoy!
These meatballs are not just tender and cheesy but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy every bite! 🍽️
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield similar results. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be a bit leaner, so you may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or some extra cheese for moisture.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What Should I Do with Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of marinara sauce so they don’t dry out.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Moist?
To keep your meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture, which can make them dense. Additionally, using fresh ingredients like herbs and cheeses enhances the flavor and moisture. Cooking them in marinara sauce also helps keep them juicy!
