Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Imagine sinking your teeth into a meatball that’s not just any meatball but a mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Meatball. Juicy ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and rich Parmesan cheese come together in a symphony of flavors that beckons every bite. As the gooey mozzarella cheese melts over the savory meatballs, you can almost hear the delightful ooze of comfort food that fills the kitchen. This recipe is the perfect overlap of childhood nostalgia and adult indulgence, making it a go-to weeknight dinner that even the pickiest eaters will devour. Quick and easy to prepare, these meatballs promise to bring joy to your table in under an hour!
Have You Ever Longed For a Cozy Family Meal That Takes You Back in Time?
Picture this: a bustling family kitchen, laughter echoing, and the aroma of baked chicken meatballs wafting through the air. Have you ever craved that warm and comforting feeling of being home, possibly while sprawled on the couch watching your favorite show? That is the kind of experience Chicken Parmesan Meatballs offer. Every bite brings back those carefree days of childhood where food tastes like love and brings families together. Wouldn’t you love to indulge in something that not only satisfies your cravings but also evokes those sweet memories?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Parmesan Meatball recipe checks all the boxes for a beloved family dish. With its easy prep and minimal ingredients, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Not to mention, everyone from kids to adults will find themselves craving these tender, cheesy bites.
These meatballs are:
- Quick and Easy: Most of the prep takes less than 15 minutes, meaning more time to enjoy with your loved ones.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Who can resist meatballs topped with warm, melted cheese and marinara?
- Nutritious: Ground chicken offers a lean option without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile: Serve them alone, in a sub, or even over pasta for a more filling meal.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 14 ounces pizza sauce
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella
- Grated Parmesan for garnish
Each ingredient plays a role in elevating the taste and texture of these Chicken Parmesan Meatballs. The breadcrumbs and egg come together to create that perfect binding, ensuring that each meatball holds its shape. The herbs and spices? A harmonious bouquet that dances with every bite, freshening up the palate. And let’s not forget the bravado of the melted mozzarella cheese, oozing and stretching to create that "wow" factor at serving time. Who needs takeout when you can whip up this lovely dish with fresh ingredients right in your kitchen?
Timing
Why settle for a long, drawn-out affair when cooking can be an indulgence that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle? This Chicken Parmesan Meatball recipe is here to promise:
- Fast and Indulgent: With prep taking just 15 minutes and baking another 15, you could be enjoying these cheesy wonders in under 30 minutes.
- Delicious and Satisfying: Ideal for those busy weeknights when the last thing you want to do is overthink dinner but still crave something heartwarming and delicious.
Step-by-Step
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Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, basil, onion powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix thoroughly until the herbs are well incorporated.
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Add in the ground chicken, and gently mix until everything is evenly combined, taking care not to overmix.
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Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion the mixture into 16-18 meatballs and lightly roll them in flour to create a nice crust.
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Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
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Carefully pour pizza sauce around the meatballs, ensuring they’re well coated, then transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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After the meatballs are done baking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and return to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
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Once out of the oven, garnish with extra grated Parmesan, serve immediately, and relish the glorious sight of this mouthwatering dish!
As you scoop out the meatballs onto a plate, the smell of melted cheese and savory marinara wafting up is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Every bite is a delightful burst of flavor, making it hard to stop at just one!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of these Chicken Parmesan Meatballs contains about 290 calories, making it an indulgent choice without going overboard. Packed with protein and flavor, these meatballs offer a rewarding treat that can satisfy cravings without the guilt of extra calories.
Healthier Alternatives
Want to lighten up the dish a bit? Here are some easy swaps:
- Swap Ground Chicken for Ground Turkey: Even leaner and just as tasty!
- Use Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: For a fiber boost and a hint of nuttiness.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: Opt for a plant-based mozzarella alternative if you’re looking to make it dairy-free.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs can be truly versatile! Serve them with:
- Pasta: Create a decadent meal by tossing them with spaghetti and extra marinara.
- Sub Sandwiches: Stuff them into crusty Italian rolls, smother with sauce, and toast for a delightful cheese pull.
- Salads: Top a fresh garden salad with warm meatballs and your favorite dressing for a well-rounded meal.
Even during gatherings or holidays, these meatballs will steal the show and create unforgettable moments around the table!
Common Mistakes
While making these Chicken Parmesan Meatballs can be easy, a few pitfalls can happen:
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the meatballs for the perfect texture—overbaking can lead to dryness.
- Texture Issues: Mixing too much can lead to dense meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients.
- Messy Cooking: Rolling meatballs can be messy; using a cookie scoop can help keep things tidy!
Storing Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though unlikely), these Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are easy to store:
- Freezing Portions: Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container or bag and freeze them for up to three months, perfect for quick future meals!
- Reheating Instructions: Thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave—add a splash of water or extra sauce to retain moisture.
Temptation to Bake it ASAP
Now that your culinary juices are flowing and the tempting visuals of Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are dancing in your mind, there’s only one thing left to do: make this wonder dish! Perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or simply to satisfy a craving, this recipe promises comfort and joy in every bite. Dare you take the delightful plunge and bake it asap?
FAQs
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Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatballs and keep them in the refrigerator for a day before cooking them. -
Can I substitute ground chicken with beef or pork?
Absolutely! Ground beef or pork will work, but make sure to adjust the cooking times slightly. -
Is there a gluten-free option?
Certainly! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version of this dish. -
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture for a delightful kick! -
Can I use a different sauce?
While pizza sauce is amazing, marinara or pesto sauces can add a different flavor profile that still complements the meatballs beautifully.
Now, grab those ingredients and let the cooking adventure begin! Your taste buds are in for a real treat!
Print
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Delicious and easy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, combining ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 14 ounces pizza sauce
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella
- Grated Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, basil, onion powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Add in the ground chicken, and gently mix until everything is evenly combined.
- Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, portion the mixture into 16-18 meatballs and lightly roll them in flour.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour pizza sauce around the meatballs, ensuring they’re well coated, and then transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for about 10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and return to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and serve immediately.
Notes
These meatballs are versatile and can be served with pasta, in a sub, or over a salad. For lighter options, swap ground chicken for turkey or use whole wheat breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
