Description
This Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs recipe offers a delicious twist on classic chicken meatballs by simmering them in rich marinara sauce and topping with generous amounts of parmesan and mozzarella cheese before broiling for a perfect golden finish. Ready in just 40 minutes, these savory meatballs are ideal for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 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)
- 1 cup (85 grams) grated parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce and Topping
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing 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, careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Cook the Meatballs: Pour the marinara sauce into a wide skillet or saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Gently drop portions of the meatball mixture into the simmering sauce. Cover with a lid and let the meatballs cook for 15 minutes, carefully flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and absorption of the sauce flavors.
- Broil the Meatballs: Preheat your oven broiler. Once the meatballs are cooked through, sprinkle the remaining parmesan and the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the meatballs and sauce. Place the pan under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the broiled meatballs from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, ideally with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep meatballs tender.
- Simmering meatballs in marinara sauce keeps them moist and flavorful.
- Broiling cheese at the end gives a lovely golden, bubbly topping.
- Fresh basil garnish adds a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Can be served with spaghetti or as a standalone appetizer.
