Stuffed Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Meatballs have long held a cherished place in culinary traditions across the globe, serving as a versatile dish that adapts beautifully to a variety of cuisines. From the classic Italian spaghetti and meatballs to the savory Swedish meatballs, these delightful morsels offer a comforting blend of flavors and textures. While traditional meatball recipes often rely on beef or pork, today we’re introducing a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative: Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs.

Discover the mouthwatering delight of Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, a scrumptious twist on a classic favorite. This recipe showcases tender ground chicken stuffed with gooey mozzarella, perfectly complemented by a rich marinara sauce. Learn the secrets to achieving the ideal texture and flavor, along with easy serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends. Elevate your mealtime with this comforting and healthier option that everyone will adore!

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Stuffing:

1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed

For the Marinara Sauce:

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)

To Garnish:

Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Additional grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

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

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, parsley, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but be careful not to over-mix.

Stuff the Meatballs:

Take a small portion of the chicken mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and encase the cheese by rolling the meat around it into a ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Bake the Meatballs:

Place the stuffed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Prepare the Marinara Sauce:

While the meatballs are baking, combine marinara sauce, dried oregano, and chili flakes (if using) in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Serve:

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. In a serving dish, pour the marinara sauce and place the meatballs on top. Garnish with fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy:

Serve hot with your choice of pasta, on sub rolls as meatball sandwiches, or simply with a side salad!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6