These Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a tasty twist on a classic! Made with ground chicken, cheese, and herbs, they’re baked to golden perfection.
Who can resist meatballs covered in marinara and melty cheese? They’re great for dinner or as a fun snack. I love pairing them with spaghetti for the ultimate comfort meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for the meatballs. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Some folks even use ground beef if they want a heartier flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a shakeable option, go for the powdered kind, but reduce it slightly to avoid overpowering the meatball mixture. Pecorino Romano can also be a tasty alternative!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs are ideal for extra flavor. If you need a gluten-free version, swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed nuts for a unique texture. I sometimes use oats as a binder, which works well too!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works great, but if you have time, making your own can make a big difference. You can also use any tomato-based sauce if marinara isn’t on hand. Homemade pesto could work for a different twist!
How Do I Bake the Perfect Meatballs Without Them Falling Apart?
Getting the meatballs to hold together is key for great texture and flavor. Here are some tips:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until they are combined. Overworking can make the meatballs tough.
- Use Binder Wisely: The egg and breadcrumbs are essential. They can prevent them from falling apart while keeping moisture in.
- Even Sizing: Roll the meat into even-sized balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. This helps them cook evenly.
- Chill Before Baking: If you’re having trouble, chilling them in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before baking can help them firm up and hold their shape.
Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, if browning before baking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the meatballs and then let them bake for 20-25 minutes. In total, you can have these delicious meatballs ready in about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, minced garlic, fresh parsley, egg, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, so the meat stays tender!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into even-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. This will help them cook evenly. Place the meatballs in the prepared baking dish as you go.
4. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Once all the meatballs are in place, pour the marinara sauce evenly over them. Make sure they’re all nicely covered to keep them juicy and flavorful!
5. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each meatball. This will give them that lovely cheesy topping everyone loves!
6. Bake Them Up:
Now, pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and make sure they’re fully cooked through. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when done, with the cheese melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let them cool for a minute. Garnish your meatballs with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that extra flavor and presentation!
8. Enjoy:
Serve these delicious baked chicken Parmesan meatballs warm. They pair wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
These chicken Parmesan meatballs are sure to be a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy the comforting taste and ease of this delightful recipe.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and works just as well in this recipe. It’s leaner, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, such as an extra tablespoon of olive oil or some additional cheese.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of marinara sauce to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze These Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze them! After baking and cooling, place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Parmesan Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. You could also serve them in a sandwich or with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option!