Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

These Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a healthy and delicious twist on a classic Italian-American dish! Imagine tender and juicy chicken meatballs, coated in a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Choice: Made with ground chicken and almond flour, these meatballs are a lighter and healthier alternative to traditional meatballs.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian herbs creates a delicious and satisfying meatball that’s packed with flavor.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Versatile: Serve these meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks or skewers, or enjoy them as a main course with your favorite pasta, zucchini noodles, or a side salad.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: A lean and healthy protein source for the meatballs.
• Egg: Binds the meatball ingredients together.
• Almond flour: A gluten-free and grain-free alternative to breadcrumbs, it adds a light and slightly nutty flavor to the meatballs.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the meatballs.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory kick.
• Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Season the meatballs to perfection.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy stretch.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated and adds a salty and umami flavor to the topping.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with your favorite sides or as an appetizer with toothpicks or skewers.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use parchment paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Evenly sized meatballs: Roll the meatballs into uniform shapes and sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

These Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Appetizer: Serve them hot with toothpicks or skewers for an easy and delicious appetizer.
• Main Course: Pair them with your favorite pasta, zucchini noodles, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Sandwiches: Use the meatballs to make delicious meatball subs or sliders.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey or a mixture of ground chicken and turkey?

Yes, you can! Ground turkey or a mixture of ground chicken and turkey would also work well in this recipe.

2. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can! However, almond flour is a healthier and gluten-free option.

3. Can I make this recipe without the marinara sauce?

Yes, you can! The meatballs are still delicious on their own, but the marinara sauce adds a wonderful flavor and moisture.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the meatballs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms, to the meatball mixture.

This Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a classic Italian-American dish. With its easy preparation, versatile serving options, and lighter ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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