Warm up with a comforting bowl of Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite. This dish combines tender, oven-baked chicken meatballs with rich marinara sauce and creamy polenta, offering a satisfying meal perfect for cozy evenings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken (preferably dark meat)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Creamy polenta, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Form the meatballs: Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake: Place the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Simmer in sauce: While the meatballs are baking, warm the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the skillet, spooning sauce over each to coat.
6. Add cheese and broil: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Spoon the meatballs and sauce over creamy polenta and garnish with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg

A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Chicken Parmesan is one of the most popular Italian-American dishes, loved for its crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese. However, while the traditional version is usually made with breaded and fried chicken cutlets, this baked chicken version with meatballs offers an equally flavorful and slightly lighter alternative.

The baked meatballs are less oily than the deep-fried version, and their small size makes them incredibly convenient to serve. They’re perfect for meal prepping, making them ideal for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal in less time.

The dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. While the recipe suggests creamy polenta, it can be paired with pasta, salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple crusty bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce. These baked chicken Parmesan meatballs are versatile enough to be a standalone dish or a part of a larger spread at a dinner party.

The Health Benefits of Using Chicken

One of the main reasons this recipe stands out is the use of ground chicken instead of beef or pork. Chicken, particularly lean cuts like chicken breast or thighs, is known for being a healthier alternative to red meat due to its lower fat content. It’s a great source of protein and other essential nutrients like B-vitamins and selenium.

Ground chicken is also incredibly versatile and can easily be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes. While ground beef or pork tends to be higher in fat, ground chicken offers a lighter yet still flavorful option that holds up well when combined with herbs, spices, and sauces.

In addition to the benefits of using chicken, the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese also contribute a delightful texture and flavor. Panko breadcrumbs, known for their light and crispy texture, help the meatballs maintain a golden, slightly crunchy exterior without being greasy.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

What makes Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs so irresistible is the perfect balance of savory flavors. The ground chicken itself is mild, allowing the seasonings—garlic, oregano, and fresh parsley—to shine through. Parmesan cheese, with its sharp, nutty flavor, adds richness, while the mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.

The marinara sauce ties it all together, infusing the meatballs with a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory seasonings in the meatballs. By broiling the meatballs after adding the mozzarella cheese, you create a slightly caramelized, crispy top that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

The dish is an example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The key to making this recipe stand out is not just the quality of ingredients but the thoughtful combination of flavors and textures that make it comforting yet fresh.

How to Serve and Pair

Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. The traditional way is to place them on a bed of creamy polenta, which provides a smooth and rich base that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce. The creamy texture of the polenta contrasts beautifully with the crispy meatballs and melted cheese.

However, you can also serve the meatballs with other sides to suit your taste. For a lighter meal, pair them with a fresh, vibrant salad, such as a Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The fresh greens will provide a crunchy contrast to the rich, saucy meatballs.

If you prefer something more traditional, serve the meatballs over pasta—spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni would work wonderfully. The pasta soaks up the marinara sauce and complements the meatballs, making for a satisfying meal. You can even add a side of garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

Meal Prep and Storage

One of the great advantages of Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs is their suitability for meal prepping. These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy dinner.

To meal prep, simply make the meatballs, bake them, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the meatballs in a skillet with a bit of marinara sauce or bake them again in the oven until heated through. You can even freeze the meatballs before baking them. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze them for a few hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to pull out the amount you need for any given meal and bake them fresh.

Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved

These Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are also a hit with kids and families. The meatballs are small, making them easy for children to eat, and they are less messy than traditional breaded chicken cutlets. The cheesy, saucy meatballs have a mild flavor that is sure to please even picky eaters.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a fantastic alternative to the traditional Chicken Parmesan, offering all the comfort and flavor with a modern twist. The use of lean ground chicken makes this dish a healthier option without compromising on taste. The perfect balance of savory chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese makes this recipe a winner for dinner time or any occasion.