Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

If you’re a fan of Chicken Parmesan and love the convenience of bite-sized dishes, this cheesy Chicken Parmesan meatballs recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Juicy chicken meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs, stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, and smothered in rich marinara sauce.

Topped with melted Parmesan cheese, these meatballs offer all the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan in a fun, shareable form. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even a party dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor: Italian herbs, marinara, and cheese combine for a taste that’s both comforting and irresistible.
2. Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe weeknight-friendly.
3. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory goodness.
4. Versatile: Serve over pasta, as sliders, or with a side of garlic bread.

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
2. Combine Evenly: Use your hands or a spatula to mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Stuff the Meatballs

1. Form the Meatballs: Take a small portion of the chicken mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it into a disc.
2. Add Mozzarella: Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and fold the meat mixture around it, forming a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent it from oozing out during cooking.
3. Repeat: Continue until all the meatballs are formed. You should have about 18–20 meatballs.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

1. Heat a Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sear the Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the skillet, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. The meatballs don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
3. Set Aside: Remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a plate.

Step 4: Simmer in Marinara Sauce

1. Heat the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer.
2. Add the Meatballs: Carefully place the seared meatballs into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the top to coat them evenly.
3. Simmer Until Cooked: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the meatballs cook for 10–12 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil

1. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the meatballs.
2. Broil: Transfer the skillet to the oven under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

1. Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs over spaghetti or penne for a hearty meal.
2. As Sliders: Tuck them into toasted buns with a dollop of marinara for a fun slider option.
3. With Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread to scoop up the extra sauce.
4. On Their Own: Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Tips for Success

1. Use Cold Mozzarella: Keep the cheese cubes chilled before stuffing the meatballs to prevent melting too quickly.
2. Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meatball mixture can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
3. Broil for Extra Flavor: The broiler step adds a golden, bubbly finish that elevates the dish.

Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

• Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Use a spicy marinara sauce for extra heat.

2. Gluten-Free Meatballs

• Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

3. Turkey or Beef Option

• Swap ground chicken with ground turkey or beef for a different protein.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Cheese-Stuffed Perfection: The gooey mozzarella center ensures every bite is indulgent and flavorful.
2. Classic Flavors: The combination of marinara, Parmesan, and mozzarella delivers that beloved Chicken Parmesan taste.
3. One-Skillet Convenience: Minimal cleanup makes this dish a winner for weeknight meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes! Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes. Then simmer them in the marinara sauce.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use vegan cheese substitutes and omit the Parmesan.

3. What can I serve with these meatballs for a low-carb meal?

Pair them with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a simple side salad.

Yield: 4

Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

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If you’re a fan of Chicken Parmesan and love the convenience of bite-sized dishes, this cheesy Chicken Parmesan meatballs recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Juicy chicken meatballs are seasoned with Italian herbs, stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, and smothered in rich marinara sauce. Topped with melted Parmesan cheese, these meatballs offer all the comforting flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan in a fun, shareable form. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even a party dish!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 oz (115g) mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (for stuffing)
• For the Sauce and Topping:
• 1½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Make the Meatball Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

3. Form and Stuff the Meatballs

1. Take about 1½ tablespoons of the meat mixture and flatten it slightly in your hand.
2. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and fold the meat mixture around it, rolling it into a ball.
3. Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Meatballs

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

5. Add Sauce and Cheese

1. Remove the meatballs from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over them.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

6. Bake Until Cheesy

1. Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. For extra browning, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end.

7. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the meatballs from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil if desired.
2. Serve hot with spaghetti, over garlic bread, or as an appetizer.

Notes

Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and adds extra creaminess.

Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender and moist.

Chill the Mixture: If the meat mixture feels sticky, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before shaping.

Homemade Marinara: For maximum flavor, use a homemade marinara sauce or your favorite high-quality jarred version.