Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Imagine biting into a juicy, cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatball coated in a rich marinara sauce, with just the right amount of seasoning to make your taste buds dance. That’s exactly what you get with this Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe – an easy, delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly option, these baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs deliver on all fronts.

You won’t need any fancy ingredients or advanced cooking skills to make these meatballs. They come together in minutes and bake up to golden perfection, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering dish that will have your family asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy, flavorful meatballs.
Healthy Alternative: Baked instead of fried, making them lighter without compromising taste.
Versatile: Serve with pasta, rice, or a low-carb option like zucchini noodles.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients & Substitutions for Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Here’s everything you need to make these delicious Chicken Parmesan Meatballs:

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken (or substitute ground turkey)
½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or use panko for extra crispiness)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup whole milk (or a dairy-free alternative)

For the Coating:

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, for topping
Fresh basil, for garnish

Substitutions:

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if avoiding gluten.
Swap dairy-free cheese and almond milk for a lactose-free version.
Prefer turkey? Ground turkey works just as well!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and parsley. Pour in the milk and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.

3. Shape & Bake

Roll the mixture into 1-inch Chicken Parmesan Meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

4. Add Sauce & Cheese

Transfer the baked meatballs to a baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over them, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

5. Broil to Perfection

Set your oven to broil and place the dish back in for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

6. Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot!

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Don’t Overmix: Overworking the mixture can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil enhance the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Broil: It adds that classic crispy, cheesy finish that makes this dish irresistible.
Try Air Frying: Instead of baking, air-fry the meatballs at 375°F for 12-15 minutes for an extra crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Classic: Over spaghetti or angel hair pasta with garlic bread.
Low-Carb: Serve with roasted vegetables or zucchini noodles.
Sub Sandwich: Load into a toasted hoagie roll with extra cheese for a Chicken Parmesan Meatball sub.
Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and extra marinara sauce for dipping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Stovetop: Simmer in marinara sauce over low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and bake the meatballs in advance. When ready to serve, add sauce and cheese, then broil for a fresh, melty finish.

What’s the best way to make them gluten-free?

Simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a grain-free option.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and has a similar texture.

How do I prevent dry meatballs?

Using whole milk and not overbaking helps keep them moist and juicy.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g

(Values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.)

More Delicious Meatball Recipes

Love this Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe? Try these next:

Classic Italian Meatballs
Turkey Zucchini Meatballs
BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Conclusion + Call to Action

There you have it – an easy, flavorful, and satisfying Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving this over pasta, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Now it’s your turn! Try this baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe and let us know how it turned out. Leave a rating and comment below, and don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest to save it for later!

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe