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Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 5 people
Course: dinner
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs Italian seasoned works best
  • 1 egg
  • 3 –4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 –2 tbsp milk optional, for extra tenderness
For Baking and Finishing
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for drizzling
  • Fresh basil for serving
  • Extra Parmesan for garnish

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or rimmed tray
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Small bowl (for egg mixture)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cookie scoop or spoon (for shaping meatballs)
  • Oven

Method
 

Mix the Meatball Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  2. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until the mixture comes together. Avoid overmixing—this helps the meatballs stay soft and tender.
  3. Tip for Texture: A splash of milk prevents the meat from becoming dense and ensures a moist interior.
Shape the Meatballs
  1. Scoop the mixture using a cookie scoop or spoon and roll into evenly sized balls, about 1–1½ inches wide.
  2. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or lightly greased pan.
Bake Until Golden
  1. 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.
  2. Baking instead of pan-frying keeps them healthier and easier to cook evenly.
Add Marinara and Cheese
  1. Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a baking dish.
  2. 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.
  3. For a browned topping, broil for 1–2 minutes.
Finish and Serve
  1. Top with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
  2. These meatballs taste incredible right out of the oven, but they’re also great for meal prep—they reheat beautifully.