Description
This Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe combines tender ground chicken meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, then broiled to golden perfection for a comforting, flavorful Italian-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground chicken
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about ½ cup) – optional
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup (about 42 grams) grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Cooking and Topping Ingredients
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
- ½ cup (about 43 grams) grated parmesan cheese (remaining)
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, half of the grated parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Bring the marinara sauce to a simmer in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the shaped meatballs directly into the simmering sauce, cover with a lid, and cook for 15 minutes, carefully flipping the meatballs halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Broil the Meatballs: Preheat the broiler. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese and all of the shredded mozzarella evenly over the simmered meatballs in the sauce. Place the pan under the broiler for 3–5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot alongside your favorite sides such as pasta or a crisp salad.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a similar flavor and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Ensure the marinara sauce is simmering gently before adding meatballs to cook them evenly and keep them moist.
- Watch the broiler carefully to prevent burning the cheese topping.
