Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

There’s something incredibly comforting about enjoying a plate of Chicken Parmesan Meatballs after a long day. I remember the first time I made these meatballs; the aroma filled my kitchen and drew everyone in. My family gathered around the table, eyes wide as the rich tomato sauce bubbled away, waiting for the first taste. Each meatball was so tender and packed with flavor, all the while being draped in melted cheese that just made it all the more delightful. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? You can easily whip them up, and they’re a hit with everyone!

Ingredients Overview for Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

The ingredients of Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are simple yet essential for creating a dish bursting with flavor. The key players include ground chicken, which forms the base of our meatballs, and Parmesan cheese, which adds a savory depth. Combined with garlic, bread crumbs, and a mix of herbs, these flavors meld together beautifully to deliver a comforting, satisfying meal.

• 1 pound ground chicken: Tender and juicy, ground chicken is the star of this dish, providing a lighter alternative to beef.
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs or panko: These help bind the meatballs and give them a lovely texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring your meatballs hold together while cooking.
• 8 cloves garlic, minced, divided: Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor; you can never have too much!
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley or 2 tablespoons minced fresh: Fresh or dried, parsley adds a hint of freshness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the meatballs.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Used for cooking the meatballs, providing flavor and helping them brown nicely.
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the sauce that brings everything together.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: A classic Italian herb that complements the flavors beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds depth and earthiness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, optional: A pinch of heat for those who like it spicy.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top of the meatballs, creating a gooey finish.
• Minced fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color before serving.

The Process for Making Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Making Chicken Parmesan Meatballs is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. The steps are simple, and each one builds on the last, leading you to a mouthwatering end result. Let’s dive into the process!

1. In a medium bowl, add the ground chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, 1 teaspoon of the minced garlic, parsley, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until combined. I often find that using my hands works best to ensure everything is well incorporated.
2. Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time, roll the mixture into balls and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate. I like to use a medium scoop for uniformity, which usually yields around 20 meatballs, each about 1 ounce.
3. In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs in a single layer. Cook them until they are browned all over, which takes about 2 minutes per side. If your skillet can’t fit all the meatballs at once, feel free to do this in batches. Once browned, transfer them to a bowl, leaving the oil in the skillet.
4. Add the remaining minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
5. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Be cautious as the tomatoes might splatter when they hit the hot oil. Give everything a good stir and bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat.
6. Once boiling, return the meatballs to the skillet and gently stir to coat them with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let them simmer until they are cooked through. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You can check that they are done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
7. After simmering, uncover the skillet and taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese, cover again, and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with minced fresh parsley if desired, and prepare to serve this delicious creation!

Recipe Tips about Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Here are some tips to help you create the best Chicken Parmesan Meatballs possible!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatballs for up to a month. Make sure to let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
• Slow Cooker: To make these in a slow cooker, brown the meatballs first, then add the sauce and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Serving Chicken Parmesan Meatballs can be as creative as you like! Here are some great ideas:

• Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs on a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic dish.
• In a Sandwich: Place meatballs in a crusty roll with marinara sauce and extra cheese for a hearty meatball sub.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair with toasted garlic bread for perfect dipping.
• On a Salad: Top a fresh salad with warm meatballs for a lighter meal option.
• Garnish: Always consider garnishing with more fresh parsley or basil to add a beautiful touch before serving.
• Seasonal Pairings: These meatballs are perfect for any season. Serve them in the winter with a side of roasted vegetables or in the summer as part of a picnic spread.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are truly a delicious and comforting dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your home. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next family dinner or meal prep; the flavors are sure to impress! Whether you’re serving them over pasta, in a sandwich, or simply on their own, they are a wonderful treat that everyone will love.

Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are tender, cheesy, and smothered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. You won't want to miss out on making these tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 370

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 each egg
• 8 cloves garlic minced, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley or 2 tablespoons minced fresh
• Salt to taste
• freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes optional (only if you like the spice)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• minced fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Saucepan

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, add the ground chicken, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, 1 teaspoon of the minced garlic, parsley, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until combined. I often find that using my hands works best to ensure everything is well incorporated.
2. Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time, roll the mixture into balls and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate. I like to use a medium scoop for uniformity, which usually yields around 20 meatballs, each about 1 ounce.
3. In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs in a single layer. Cook them until they are browned all over, which takes about 2 minutes per side. If your skillet can't fit all the meatballs at once, feel free to do this in batches. Once browned, transfer them to a bowl, leaving the oil in the skillet.
4. Add the remaining minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
5. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Be cautious as the tomatoes might splatter when they hit the hot oil. Give everything a good stir and bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat.
6. Once boiling, return the meatballs to the skillet and gently stir to coat them with the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let them simmer until they are cooked through. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You can check that they are done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
7. After simmering, uncover the skillet and taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese, cover again, and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with minced fresh parsley if desired, and prepare to serve this delicious creation!

Notes

• Tip 1: Wet your hands before rolling the meatballs to prevent sticking.
• Tip 2: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for even richer flavor.
• Tip 3: For cheese-filled meatballs, wrap small cubes of mozzarella in the chicken mixture.
• Tip 4: Substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
• Tip 5: For faster cooking, use a slow cooker and add the meatballs directly to the sauce.

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Meet Nora Wells

The Hearth Keeper For me, cooking is about hospitality. I want every recipe we create to make people feel welcome and safe. I love the old ways of cooking cast iron skillets, wooden spoons, and recipes passed down through generations. I work with the team to add that touch of nostalgia to our dishes. Whether we are making a modern pasta or a vintage cake, I’m there to ensure it tastes like home.