Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
If you love the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan but want something fun, modern, and easy to serve, then Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Juicy ground chicken, savory Parmesan, and Italian herbs come together to form tender meatballs stuffed with melty mozzarella and simmered in rich marinara sauce. They deliver all the comfort of the beloved Chicken Parm but in bite-sized, family-friendly portions that are perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to casual gatherings.
Whether you’re cooking for kids, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, these cheesy meatballs are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible Chicken Parmesan Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup flour (for dredging)
- Bocconcini mozzarella balls (for stuffing)
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- Handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Meatball Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Use clean hands to gently mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form and Stuff the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into golf ball–sized meatballs. Gently press a bocconcini mozzarella ball into the center of each, then reform the meatball around the cheese to fully enclose it.
3. Dredge in Flour
Lightly coat each meatball in flour. This step creates a golden crust when pan-seared and helps lock in the juices.
4. Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the meatballs and brown them on all sides for 3–4 minutes. Remove and repeat with the remaining batch.
5. Bake with Sauce
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet and nestle the browned meatballs on top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese centers are melted.
6. Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly torn basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and even extra bocconcini if desired. Serve hot with pasta, crusty bread, or a crisp green salad.
About the Recipe
The Inspiration Behind Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American classic, but making the traditional version can be time-intensive with breading, frying, and layering. These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs simplify the process while keeping all the signature flavors—savory chicken, melty mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and fresh basil.
Variations You Can Try
- Make it Lighter: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.
- Gluten-Free: Swap panko and flour for gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix shredded mozzarella into the chicken mixture for double the cheesiness.
- Spicy Twist: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t overmix the chicken mixture—it can make the meatballs tough.
- Ensure the cheese is fully sealed inside each meatball to prevent it from leaking during cooking.
- Browning before baking not only creates flavor but also keeps the meatballs moist.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are versatile:
- Serve over spaghetti or penne for a hearty Italian-inspired dinner.
- Pair with garlic bread for a cozy comfort meal.
- Turn them into a sub sandwich by layering in a toasted hoagie roll with extra marinara and melted mozzarella.
- Add them to an appetizer platter—just skewer with toothpicks for an easy party snack.
Nutrition Insights
Each serving is hearty and satisfying, with a balance of protein from chicken, calcium from Parmesan and mozzarella, and flavor from the herbs and spices. If you’re mindful of calories, pair them with zucchini noodles or a fresh side salad instead of pasta.
Conclusion
These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are the perfect combination of comfort food and convenience. With juicy chicken, gooey mozzarella centers, and tangy marinara, they bring everything you love about Chicken Parmesan into a fun, family-friendly recipe.
Whether you serve them over pasta, tucked into a sub, or straight from the skillet, they’re bound to become a regular on your dinner menu. Try this recipe for your next weeknight meal and let the flavors of Italy fill your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your delicious results with friends and family!
