When I made these Chicken Parmesan Meatballs for the first time, I couldn’t stop smiling. The smell of Italian herbs filled my kitchen, and when I cut into one, that gooey melted mozzarella was absolute perfection. These meatballs aren’t just flavorful, they’re crispy, tender, and packed with cheesy goodness.

Whether you want a weeknight dinner that feels special or a dish to wow your guests, this recipe has got you covered. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll see why these are a family favorite at my house!

Ingredients to Gather

Here’s what you need to make this flavorful, cheesy dish. Each ingredient works perfectly to build layers of taste and texture.

ground chicken (1 lb): Tender, lean meat gives the meatballs their base.
egg (1 large): Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
grated parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a tangy, savory depth to the mixture.
Panko breadcrumbs (¾ cup): Ensures a light and crispy bite.
garlic powder (1 tsp): Boosts flavor with a hint of garlic in every bite.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A perfect blend of herbs for that classic Italian flair.
Kosher salt (1 tsp): Brings out all the flavors of the dish.
black pepper (½ tsp): Adds just the right amount of warmth.
crushed red pepper flakes (¼ tsp, optional): For a little extra kick, if you love spice.
Marinara sauce (1 ½ cups): Tangy and rich, it’s the perfect saucy pairing.
shredded mozzarella cheese (⅓ cup): Melts on top to add a creamy finish.
fresh basil (¼ cup, chopped): Bright, fresh garnish to tie everything together.

Note: This recipe yields approximately 18 meatballs, serving 4-6 people.

Variations to Make It Your Own

Get creative with these adjustments to suit your taste or dietary needs:

Gluten-Free Option: Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones for a celiac-friendly dish.
Add Hidden Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped zucchini or spinach for a nutritional boost.
Spicy Twist: Double the crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat, or sprinkle cayenne pepper.
Switch Up the Cheese: Try stuffing the meatballs with provolone or even spicy pepper jack cheese.

Cooking Time Needed

Making these flavorful meatballs is quicker than you think!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Essential Equipment for this Recipe

Set yourself up for success by gathering these tools:

Mixing bowls: To combine the meatball mixture evenly.
Skillet: For browning the meatballs to crispy perfection.
Oven-safe dish or skillet: To bake everything together with marinara sauce.
Tongs or spatula: For flipping the meatballs without breaking them.

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs?

Making these meatballs is as fun as it is easy! Here’s a step-by-step guide to get it just right.

Mix the Ingredients

Start by combining the ground chicken, egg, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and all the seasonings in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to bring everything together until it’s well mixed but not overworked. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so be gentle!

Stuff and Shape the Meatballs

Scoop the mixture and roll it into golf-ball-sized portions. Press a small cube of mozzarella into the center of each ball, then seal it completely so no cheese leaks out. This step gives you that delicious cheesy surprise in every bite.

Coat for a Golden Crispy Exterior

Roll each stuffed meatball in a plate of extra breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for that satisfying, crispy crust you’ll love. Make sure the meatballs are fully coated on all sides.

Brown the Meatballs

Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs. Cook them in batches, turning gently until they’re golden brown and crisp on all sides. This step gives the meatballs their initial texture and seals in the juices.

Bake with Marinara Sauce

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Pour marinara sauce into the skillet or a baking dish and arrange the meatballs over the sauce. Bake for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. During the final 5 minutes, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs and return to the oven until it melts.

Serve and Garnish with Love

Once the meatballs are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese. Serve them over a bed of pasta or with garlic bread on the side for an unforgettable meal.

Tips for Making These Better Than Ever

Here’s how I take my Chicken Parmesan Meatballs to the next level:

Don’t skimp on the cheese center! It’s the heart of this recipe, so make sure to add those mozzarella cubes.
Use fresh herbs for garnishing. Fresh basil adds an unbeatable aroma and flavor.
Brown with care. Keep the heat at medium to crisp the crust without burning it.
Baking together with sauce enhances flavor. This keeps the meatballs juicy and tender.
Use an ice cream scoop. It’s the easiest way to get evenly sized meatballs quickly!

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs?

Serving these meatballs is just as enjoyable as eating them. Lay them gently over your favorite type of pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, with a ladle of extra marinara sauce. Want something different? They pair well with creamy polenta or can be turned into sliders for a party. Garnish with fresh parmesan and basil for that restaurant-style presentation. Don’t forget a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad!

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you’re getting in every satisfying serving:

Calories: 589
Protein: 29g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fat: 42g

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Want to save some for later? These meatballs store beautifully, so you’re always one step ahead.

Refrigeration

Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with marinara sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.

Freezing

Place uncooked or cooked meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer bag, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking or reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are hard not to fall in love with! Here’s what makes them stand out:

Simple Yet Impressive: With minimal prep and basic ingredients, anyone can make them!
Cheese-Filled Surprise: Melty mozzarella centers make every bite special.
Perfectly Crispy: Rolled in breadcrumbs, these meatballs are irresistibly golden.
Customizable and Versatile: Adjust the ingredients to fit your taste or occasion.
Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

These Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are truly a nod to comfort food with an elevated touch. With gooey cheese, crispy coating, and mouthwatering flavors, this recipe is destined to become your new dinner favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this dish with your loved ones!