These Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken meatballs are baked until golden and topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese. Yum!
I love these for a quick weeknight dinner! Just serve them with spaghetti, and you’ve got a hearty meal. Plus, they’re so tasty that even picky eaters can’t resist! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! You can also use ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option. For a richer flavor, try ground beef or pork.
Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs: These add flavor and texture. If gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Plain breadcrumbs work too, but add a bit of Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for a slightly sharper taste. Skip the cheese if you want a dairy-free version!
Egg: This acts as a binder. If egg-free, you can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to help hold the meatballs together.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is quick and easy! If you have time, homemade sauce is fantastic. You can replace it with barbecue sauce for a twist!
How Do You Ensure Your Meatballs Are Juicy and Tender?
Mixing the meatball ingredients properly is crucial! Here are tips to keep them juicy:
- Mix gently: Combine ingredients until just mixed to avoid dense meatballs.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on them; overcooking can lead to dryness. Check at 15 minutes!
- Add moisture: If your mixture feels dry, a splash of milk or chicken broth can help moisten it.
If you can, let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps redistribute juices. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at a total time of around 40 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the meatballs cook evenly and get that lovely golden color. While the oven heats up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix gently, just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix, or your meatballs might be tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, take a small handful of the mixture and shape it into a meatball about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet or dish. Try to make them all about the same size so they cook evenly!
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. They should be cooked through and have a slight golden color on the outside. Just keep an eye on them!
5. Add Marinara Sauce:
Once the meatballs are out of the oven, carefully spoon some marinara sauce over each meatball. You can be generous here; the more, the merrier!
6. Top with Cheese:
Next, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce on each meatball. This will melt into gooey deliciousness as they finish baking.
7. Bake Again:
Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The smell will be amazing!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you wish, sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for that extra pop of flavor and color. Serve the meatballs hot, with extra marinara sauce on the side. They’re perfect over pasta or in a sub sandwich for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make Chicken Parmesan Meatballs! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well. It may be slightly leaner, so you might want to add a little extra moisture, like a splash of chicken broth, if desired.
Can I Make These Meatballs in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and shape them, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What Should I Do If My Mixture Is Too Wet?
If your meatball mixture feels too wet or loose, add a bit more bread crumbs until you reach a consistency that holds together well. A little adjustment can make a big difference!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months for a quick meal later on!
