There’s something special about a dish that feels both cozy and exciting at the same time—and baked chicken Parmesan meatballs deliver exactly that. They combine the comfort of classic Italian flavors with the ease of a modern, family-friendly recipe. Each meatball is tender, juicy, and packed with Parmesan, herbs, and garlic, then baked until golden and finished in warm marinara sauce with melted cheese on top.
These meatballs bring all the flavors of chicken Parmesan into a bite-sized, fuss-free form. They’re perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, potlucks, or even game nights. With just simple ingredients and smart cooking techniques, you can serve a dish that tastes like it came from a cozy Italian kitchen.
Why These Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Are So Good
Every element of this recipe works together to create a flavorful and memorable meal:
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Baking instead of frying keeps the meatballs light but still tender and golden.
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Chicken makes them leaner yet still satisfying.
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Parmesan and herbs add rich, savory depth.
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Marinara sauce brings warmth, acidity, and classic Italian flavor.
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Melted cheese makes everything feel indulgent and comforting.
The result is a dish that feels familiar yet fresh, and easy enough for busy weeknights.
Equipment You’ll Need
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Large mixing bowl
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Baking sheet or rimmed tray
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Parchment paper or aluminum foil
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Small bowl (for egg mixture)
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Cookie scoop or spoon (for shaping meatballs)
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Oven
Ingredients List
For the Meatballs
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1 lb ground chicken
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned works best)
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1 egg
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for extra tenderness)
For Baking and Finishing
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2 cups marinara sauce
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1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
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2 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
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Fresh basil, for serving
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Extra Parmesan, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: 40–45 minutes
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Servings: 4–5 servings
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
These steps keep the process simple while guaranteeing juicy, flavorful meatballs every time.
Step 1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Mix gently with your hands or a fork until the mixture comes together. Avoid overmixing—this helps the meatballs stay soft and tender.
Tip for Texture: A splash of milk prevents the meat from becoming dense and ensures a moist interior.
Step 2. Shape the Meatballs
Scoop the mixture using a cookie scoop or spoon and roll into evenly sized balls, about 1–1½ inches wide.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or lightly greased pan.
Step 3. Bake Until Golden
Drizzle the meatballs lightly with olive oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden on top.
Baking instead of pan-frying keeps them healthier and easier to cook evenly.
Step 4. Add Marinara and Cheese
Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce around the meatballs, then sprinkle mozzarella over the top. Return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a browned topping, broil for 1–2 minutes.
Step 5. Finish and Serve
Top with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
These meatballs taste incredible right out of the oven, but they’re also great for meal prep—they reheat beautifully.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
These meatballs pair well with a variety of sides, depending on whether you want a hearty meal or something lighter.
Great Pairing Ideas
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Spaghetti or penne pasta
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Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
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Roasted vegetables
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Caesar salad
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Mashed potatoes
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Zucchini noodles for a lighter option
Helpful Tips for Perfect Meatballs Every Time
Use Parmesan for Flavor and Texture
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a deeper, saltier flavor than pre-grated varieties.
Don’t Overmix the Meat
Gentle mixing helps the meatballs stay tender instead of tough.
Adjust Consistency if Needed
If the mixture feels too wet, add a small amount of breadcrumbs. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or olive oil.
Bake on a Hot Sheet
Preheating your sheet pan gives the meatballs a better sear on the bottom.
Let Them Rest Before Serving
Resting for 2–3 minutes helps the juices redistribute, keeping the interior moist.
Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion
Baked chicken Parmesan meatballs are versatile and easy to adapt:
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Great for families: Kids love them, adults love them, and they’re easy on the wallet.
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Perfect for meal prep: They store and reheat well for busy weeks.
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Ideal for gatherings: Serve as appetizers or as part of a larger Italian-style meal.
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Customizable: Change the sauce, cheese, or herbs based on your taste.
They offer the familiar comfort of chicken Parmesan in a faster, simpler, and more portable form.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container with marinara sauce for 3–4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked meatballs separately on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Add sauce after thawing. They keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Warm in a skillet with sauce over low heat, or microwave in short intervals with a splash of water or sauce to keep them juicy.
Nutritional Facts (Approx. per Serving)
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Calories: 330–380
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Protein: 28–32g
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Fat: 16–20g
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Carbohydrates: 14–18g
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Fiber: 1–2g
Values vary depending on cheese amount, breadcrumbs, and sauce.
This dish pairs well with other weeknight favorites like Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet, Sheet Pan Greek Chicken and Veggies, and Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach and Toasted Pine Nuts.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Mix gently with your hands or a fork until the mixture comes together. Avoid overmixing—this helps the meatballs stay soft and tender.
- Tip for Texture: A splash of milk prevents the meat from becoming dense and ensures a moist interior.
- Scoop the mixture using a cookie scoop or spoon and roll into evenly sized balls, about 1–1½ inches wide.
- Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or lightly greased pan.
- Drizzle the meatballs lightly with olive oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden on top.
- Baking instead of pan-frying keeps them healthier and easier to cook evenly.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce around the meatballs, then sprinkle mozzarella over the top. Return to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a browned topping, broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Top with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
- These meatballs taste incredible right out of the oven, but they’re also great for meal prep—they reheat beautifully.
Conclusion
Baked chicken Parmesan meatballs take all the best parts of classic chicken Parmesan—crispy edges, tender meat, rich marinara, and melty cheese—and turn them into an easy, one-pan dish. They’re flavorful enough for guests and simple enough for a quick family dinner.
Whether served over pasta, tucked into a sub roll, or enjoyed straight from the pan, these meatballs bring comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a regular part of your weeknight rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make baked chicken Parmesan meatballs ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare and shape the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
2. How do I keep chicken meatballs from drying out?
Avoid overmixing and don’t overbake. Adding breadcrumbs and cheese helps keep the meatballs moist.
3. Can I freeze chicken Parmesan meatballs?
Yes. Freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
4. What sauce works best with these meatballs?
Classic marinara sauce pairs best, but arrabbiata or tomato basil sauce also work well.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the sauce and cheese are gluten-free.