Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Name: Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; Fresh basil for garnish

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I love making these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs for a quick and satisfying dinner! They’re so flavorful and juicy, thanks to the combination of fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and tender ground chicken. I enjoy pairing them with a simple marinara sauce and pasta for a classic Italian meal that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, they're easy to make, and I can have dinner ready in just about 30 minutes. These meatballs are my go-to for busy weeknights when I want comfort food without a lot of fuss.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-28T00:29:35.069Z

Every time I whip up a batch of these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, I’m reminded of my childhood dinners spent around the table with family. The combination of tender chicken and savory cheese creates a dish that's both comforting and satisfying, perfect for any occasion. One tip I’ve found is to bake the meatballs instead of frying them; it keeps them light, yet they still develop a beautiful golden crust.

One evening, I decided to serve them over a bed of zucchini noodles for a healthier twist, and it turned out to be a hit! The fresh basil sprinkled on top added a burst of flavor that took these meatballs to the next level. It's all about experimenting with what you have and making it your own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy meatballs bursting with flavor from herbs and cheese
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy nights
Versatile dish that pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies

Perfecting Your Meatballs

When making these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, the key is to avoid overmixing the meat. Overworking the mixture can lead to dense meatballs rather than the light and tender texture you’re aiming for. Mix the ingredients gently until just combined, ensuring that the breadcrumbs don’t absorb too much moisture. This will keep your meatballs juicy and flavorful.

A good meatball should have a balanced flavor, with each ingredient adding something special. The Parmesan not only enhances the taste but also helps to bind the meatball together, while the garlic and parsley add a fresh, aromatic quality. If you're out of fresh herbs, dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning can serve as a substitute, but remember to reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Saucing It Up

While the meatballs bake, heating your marinara sauce on medium heat is crucial for the best flavor. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If time allows, simmering the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes will deepen its flavor, creating a more cohesive dish. I prefer using homemade sauce when available, as it can elevate the dish significantly.

You can easily customize the marinara by adding red pepper flakes for heat or fresh vegetables like diced bell peppers and onions for added nutrition. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider a tomato basil sauce or a homemade pesto drizzle instead of marinara. These variations can make the meal feel new each time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal.

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to prepare these ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your meatballs.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.

Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

Heat the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.

Serve

Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the warm marinara sauce and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also use a combination of ground chicken and ground turkey for a tastier twist.

Storing and Reheating

These Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are excellent for meal prep. Once cooked, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days if properly stored. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Always label your bags with the date to keep track.

For reheating, you can thaw them overnight in the fridge or directly microwave on low to avoid drying them out. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), cover them with aluminum foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain their moisture and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these flavorful meatballs with your favorite pasta for a classic Italian dish, or serve them over a bed of zucchini noodles for a lighter option. They also work great in a sandwich with marinara and melted cheese for a delectable meatball sub. Alternatively, serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy sharing at gatherings or game nights.

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling fresh grated Parmesan and chopped basil over the top before serving. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an unexpected twist, bringing a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory meatballs beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, but the dish will be richer in flavor.

→ How do I store leftover meatballs?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What should I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or as a sub sandwich filling.