Easy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

There’s something universally comforting about a well-prepared meatball, and our easy chicken parmesan meatballs recipe brings together beloved flavors with minimal fuss. Perfectly seasoned ground chicken combined with gooey mozzarella and tangy marinara sauce creates a delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone around your table. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a home cook, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without stepping out of your kitchen.

Growing up, Sunday dinners were always a special occasion in our household. One dish that my grandmother often made was chicken parmesan. Over the years, as our family grew and schedules got busier, I started experimenting with more convenient versions of this classic, and that’s how our beloved chicken parmesan meatballs came to be. It’s a recipe that maintains the comforting essence of my grandmother’s cooking while being quick enough for even the busiest weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Our chicken parmesan meatballs are a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and minimal prep time, perfect for taking the stress out of dinner preparations.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile: Serve them with pasta, in a sandwich, or as a standalone appetizer. The possibilities are endless!
• Kid-Friendly: With their cheesy, saucy goodness, these meatballs are a hit with younger eaters, making them an excellent choice for family meals.

Ingredients Notes

Here are a few tips and substitutions for our ingredients:

• Ground Chicken: Look for ground chicken with a good balance of white and dark meat for extra juiciness. Ground turkey is a fine substitute.
• Bread Crumbs: Use Italian seasoned bread crumbs for additional flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
• Marinara Sauce: A high-quality store-bought marinara works great if you’re short on time, or you can make your own for added depth of flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Consider using fresh mozzarella balls for an oozy, delicious center.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, bread crumbs, grated parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Step 3

Using a tablespoon, scoop out mixture and roll into balls. Press a mozzarella cube into the center of each ball and seal carefully.

Step 4

Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Step 5

Transfer baked meatballs to a skillet, pour marinara sauce over them, and simmer for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Storage Options

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a pot on the stove or microwave.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an aromatic lift.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground chicken with minced mushrooms and zucchini for a meatless delight.

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs are highly versatile and can be served:

• On a bed of spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.
• Stuffed into a sub roll, topped with extra cheese for a delicious sandwich.
• As an appetizer served with toothpicks at your next gathering.
• Alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meatballs up to Step 3 and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply proceed with baking them once you’re ready to cook.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? If you’re out of bread crumbs, try using crushed crackers, panko, or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.

How can I ensure my meatballs stay moist? Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, as this can make them tough. Incorporating ingredients like egg and cheese adds moisture and flavor, while sealing the mozzarella inside helps retain juiciness.

Easy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

This Easy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe combines the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in a fun and simple meatball form. Perfect for a cozy dinner!

No ratings yet

Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 lb ground chicken
• ▢ 0.5 cup breadcrumbs preferably Italian seasoned
• ▢ 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 1 egg lightly beaten
• ▢ 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ▢ 0.5 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.25 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 2 cups marinara sauce
• ▢ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
• In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Form mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.
• Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.
• Remove meatballs from oven and add them to a skillet with marinara sauce. Top with mozzarella cheese.
• Simmer on medium-low heat for an additional 10 minutes or until meatballs are fully cooked and cheese is melted.

Notes

Serve these delicious meatballs with pasta or as a sandwich for a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh basil for extra flavor.