The aroma of Chicken Parm Meatballs wafts through the kitchen, filling the air with a savory promise that’s hard to resist. Picture this: perfectly seasoned chicken, enveloped in a blanket of rich marinara and gooey mozzarella, all nestled atop a bed of spaghetti. It’s a comforting dish that makes you feel like you’re being embraced by a warm hug on a chilly evening. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood, where every Sunday was a family feast day. My grandma would whip up her famous Chicken Parm Meatballs, and the entire neighborhood could smell it! Everyone knew when Grandma was cooking, and they’d find themselves at our doorstep, all hoping for an invitation to join us. This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in—one bite and you’ll be transported back to those cherished moments.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chicken Parm Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a weeknight hero.
- The flavor is an unforgettable blend of herbs and spices that will dance on your taste buds.
- Visually appealing with their golden crust and vibrant sauce, they make any dinner table look gourmet.
- Perfect for pasta lovers but versatile enough to enjoy on their own or in sandwiches.
Ingredients for Chicken Parm Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Chicken: Use lean ground chicken for juicy meatballs without excess fat.
- Breadcrumbs: Choose plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil brightens up the meatball mixture with its aromatic qualities.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch gives these meatballs a delicious depth of flavor without overpowering them.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping hold the meatballs together while keeping them moist.
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade; either way, it should be rich and flavorful for best results.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that gooey cheese pull we all love in chicken parm dishes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Parm Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab your favorite baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so those meatballs don’t stick like they owe you money.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped basil, and eggs. Mix everything together with your hands until it’s fully combined—yes, I said hands! It’s more fun that way.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using clean hands (no sticky fingers here), form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on your baking dish—they need personal space too!
Step 4: Bake Those Bad Boys
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen smells like heaven.
Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce
Once baked, pour marinara sauce over each meatball generously. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top like confetti at a party—it’s time to celebrate!
Step 6: Melt That Cheese
Return your masterpiece to the oven for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Trust me; this is worth every second of waiting.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your Chicken Parm Meatballs with pasta or alone; either way, they’ll leave you wanting seconds!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken parm meatballs recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for family gatherings but versatile enough for weeknight dinners.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken meatballs first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook your pasta while preparing the marinara sauce. Timing is everything—multitask like a culinary ninja for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or add spices like red pepper flakes for a kick. You could even throw in some veggies to sneak in nutrition without anyone noticing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken parm meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, ensuring they remain moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your chicken parm meatballs are perfect every time, keep these tips in mind: Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor, avoid overmixing the meat to keep them tender, and let them rest after cooking to retain juiciness.
Making these chicken parm meatballs reminds me of that time my friends declared it “the best dish ever.” It felt great knowing I nailed the recipe and made everyone’s taste buds dance!
FAQs :
What are Chicken Parm Meatballs?
Chicken Parm Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, combining ground chicken with Italian herbs and spices. They are typically baked or pan-fried, then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, mimicking the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan. Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad This dish is perfect for serving over pasta or in a sub sandwich. Zesty Caesar Salad Dressing Homemade Caesar Salad.
How do you make Chicken Parm Meatballs?
To make Chicken Parm Meatballs, start by mixing ground chicken with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs. Form the mixture into balls and bake them until cooked through. After baking, place the meatballs in a baking dish, cover them with marinara sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden for a mouthwatering finish.
Can I freeze Chicken Parm Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Parm Meatballs for later use. Once cooked and cooled, place the meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What can I serve with Chicken Parm Meatballs?
Chicken Parm Meatballs pair well with various sides. Consider serving them over spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a light option. You can also enjoy them as part of a meatball sub sandwich, topped with extra marinara sauce and melted cheese. A fresh salad or garlic bread makes excellent accompaniments as well.
Conclusion for Chicken Parm Meatballs :
In conclusion, Chicken Parm Meatballs offer a delightful blend of flavors that elevate any meal. Combining tender ground chicken with savory herbs and topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese creates a comforting dish loved by many. Whether served over pasta or as a sandwich filling, these meatballs are sure to impress family and friends alike. Try making this easy recipe at home for a satisfying dinner option that everyone will enjoy! For more inspiration, check out this Mushroom Swiss Cheese Meatloaf recipe.
Chicken Parm Meatballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Parm Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite. Juicy ground chicken meets aromatic herbs and spices, enveloped in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, delivering nostalgia and flavor with every bite. Easy to prepare, these meatballs make any meal feel like a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chopped basil, and egg; mix until fully combined.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place evenly in the baking dish.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Pour marinara sauce over each meatball and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve with extra sauce for drizzling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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