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Meatballs have long held a cherished place in cuisines around the world, from the Italian classic served with spaghetti to the Swedish variety enjoyed with lingonberry sauce. These versatile morsels can be adapted to suit a wide range of flavors and dietary preferences, making them a favorite for many home cooks. Among the myriad of meatball recipes, the Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs stand out as a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork meatballs. These chicken meatballs are not only lighter but are packed with flavor and a delightful cheesy twist that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Discover a delicious twist on a classic favorite with these Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs! Made with lean ground chicken, flavorful Parmesan, and a blend of herbs and spices, these meatballs are not only healthier than traditional ones but also irresistibly tasty. Bake them to perfection and enjoy them on pasta, in subs, or as appetizers for gatherings. This simple recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground chicken

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, minced garlic, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined but be careful not to overmix.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each meatball.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.

          Add Marinara and Cheese: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each meatball, then sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.

            Broil for Perfection: Return the meatballs to the oven and switch the oven setting to broil. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, watching closely to prevent burning.

              Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the meatballs from the oven, let them cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping or over pasta.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings