Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs: Cheesy Goodness Made Easy. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, cheesy meatball that bursts with flavor and is perfectly baked to golden perfection. quick chicken enchiladas recipe The aroma wafting through the kitchen will make you feel like a culinary wizard, even if you just followed a simple recipe.

These meatballs are not just food; they’re a hug on a plate, ready to brighten your dinner table or impress friends at a gathering. Picture them nestled in marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and fresh basil—pure bliss! Whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive gathering, these Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs make every occasion special and delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The flavor is rich and savory, with a delightful cheesy finish
Their golden-brown appearance adds visual appeal to any meal
Perfect for serving over pasta or enjoying as an appetizer for gatherings

I remember the first time I made these meatballs; my kids practically tackled me at the dinner table, asking for seconds before they even finished their firsts!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Chicken: Lean and flavorful, ground chicken keeps these meatballs tender without being greasy. ginger steamed chicken dish.
Breadcrumbs: Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture in your meatballs.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty depth that enhances every bite.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the mixture together; use large eggs for optimal results.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick without the chopping hassle.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade; it’s the perfect bed for your meatballs.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella on top creates that gooey goodness we all crave.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. mini cinnamon sugar doughnuts.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven : Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures an even bake and helps achieve that golden brown crust we all love.

Mix the Ingredients : In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.

Form the Meatballs : Scoop out portions of the mixture using a cookie scoop or spoon and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a greased baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake Until Golden : Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Add Marinara Sauce : Once baked, remove from the oven and add marinara sauce on top of each meatball. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over each one to create that mouthwatering cheesy layer.

Bake Again : Return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. The aroma will have everyone eagerly waiting at the dinner table!

Now you have scrumptious Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs ready to be devoured! Enjoy them over pasta, in sandwiches, or straight off the tray—no judgment here! For more inspiration, check out this Cajun chicken pasta recipe recipe.

You Must Know

Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are not just cheesy; they’re also a clever way to sneak in veggies!
The aroma of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, making it inviting
Plus, they freeze beautifully for easy meals later

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the meatball ingredients while preheating the oven. Form the meatballs and bake them until golden brown before adding marinara sauce and cheese.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground chicken for turkey or add spinach for an extra health boost. Rotel pasta with ground beef Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for varied flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your meat is not too wet; it helps form perfect meatballs that hold together well
Letting them rest briefly after baking allows flavors to meld beautifully
Always taste your mixture before baking to adjust seasoning as needed!

I remember the first time I made these meatballs; my friends devoured them at a dinner party and begged for the recipe. It felt great to impress everyone!

FAQ

Can I use lean ground chicken for this recipe?

Yes, lean ground chicken works well but may require extra binding ingredients.

How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and freeze them before baking for quick meal prep later on.