Hello food lovers! 🌟 Are you ready to take your weeknight dinners to a whole new level? Let me introduce you to a dish that’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor—Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella. This recipe will become a family favorite in no time, blending the rich, cheesy goodness of Chicken Parmesan with the fun and ease of meatballs. Get ready to wow your taste buds and those of your loved ones!
Introduction
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish loved for its rich, comforting flavors. But what if we took everything you adore about Chicken Parmesan—the crispy coating, the savory sauce, the melted cheese—and turned it into a fun and convenient meatball form? That’s exactly what this recipe does! These Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella are the perfect fusion of two beloved dishes, making them ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they’re also easier to prepare and serve than traditional Chicken Parmesan. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults!
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of Sunday dinners with my family, where Chicken Parmesan was often on the menu. Transforming it into meatballs has made it more accessible for weeknight meals while still keeping that nostalgic flavor intact.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting recipe for Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella, you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground chicken
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about ½ cup), optional
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup (85 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. If you’re looking for substitutions, consider using ground turkey instead of chicken or panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture. For a dairy-free version, swap the Parmesan and mozzarella with your favorite plant-based alternatives.
How to Make Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella:
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine all of the meatball ingredients: ground chicken, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, ½ cup Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Heat the Sauce: In a pan, gently heat the marinara sauce over low heat until it begins to simmer. This will be the base in which your meatballs cook, infusing them with rich tomato flavor.
- Shape the Meatballs: Use a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the meatballs, then roll them between your hands to make them round. If the mixture is sticky, wet your hands with a little water to help with shaping.
- Cook the Meatballs: Immediately drop the meatballs into the simmering marinara sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through to ensure even cooking. The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
- Broil with Cheese: Preheat your broiler. Once the meatballs are cooked, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over them, followed by all of the shredded mozzarella. Place the pan under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from the broiler and garnish with fresh basil. Serve the meatballs over pasta, rice, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil can elevate the flavor of the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried can be used, but reduce the amount by about half.
- Avoid Sticking: If your meatball mixture is sticking to your hands while shaping, wet your hands with a little water. This makes the process easier and helps form perfect meatballs.
Cooking Tips
For the best results when making Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella, consider the following cooking tips:
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for evenly cooking the meatballs in the marinara sauce.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F/74°C. This ensures they’re cooked through without being overdone.
- Broiling for Crispiness: Broiling the cheese-topped meatballs gives you that perfect crispy cheese layer that’s reminiscent of traditional Chicken Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella, the possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to complement your meal:
- Over Pasta: Serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta—spaghetti, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- On Garlic Bread: Make an open-faced sandwich by placing the meatballs on slices of garlic bread and topping with extra sauce and cheese.
- With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the meatballs and makes for a balanced meal.
- Pair with Wine: A glass of Chianti or a bold red wine pairs beautifully with the rich tomato sauce and cheesy meatballs.
Nutritional Information
This recipe not only tastes great but also provides a balanced nutritional profile. Here’s a quick overview of the Nutritional Information for Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella:
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Protein: 28 grams
- Fat: 24 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 grams
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Potassium: 500 mg
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 8% DV
- Calcium: 25% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
These meatballs are high in protein and calcium, making them a nutritious choice for dinner. The dish also provides a good source of iron, which is essential for energy production, and vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health.
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella fresh and delicious for later, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave.
- Freeze: These meatballs freeze well! Place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It has a similar texture and absorbs the flavors of the sauce well.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so this swap is all you need.
3. What should I do if the meatballs are falling apart?
If your meatballs are falling apart, try adding a little more breadcrumbs to the mixture. This will help bind the ingredients together.
4. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs up to the point of cooking, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also cook the meatballs and store them in the sauce, reheating when you’re ready to serve.
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out these related dishes:
-
Creamy Chicken Feta Spinach Delight
-
Swedish Meatballs Recipe: The Best Comfort Food
These recipes are just as flavorful and satisfying, making them perfect for adding to your meal rotation.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating these Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella as much as I do! This dish is a wonderful blend of comfort food and easy weeknight cooking, with a flavor that’s sure to impress. I’d love to hear how your meatballs turn out, so please feel free to share your experience in the comments. And don’t forget—cooking is all about creativity, so don’t hesitate to add your own twist to the recipe!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
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Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella
Description
Hello food lovers! 🌟 Are you ready to take your weeknight dinners to a whole new level? Let me introduce you to a dish that’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor—Savory Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with Mozzarella. This recipe will become a family favorite in no time, blending the rich, cheesy goodness of Chicken Parmesan with the fun and ease of meatballs. Get ready to wow your taste buds and those of your loved ones!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 grams) ground chicken
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about ½ cup), optional
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup (85 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. If you’re looking for substitutions, consider using ground turkey instead of chicken or panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture. For a dairy-free version, swap the Parmesan and mozzarella with your favorite plant-based alternatives.
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine all of the meatball ingredients: ground chicken, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, ½ cup Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Heat the Sauce: In a pan, gently heat the marinara sauce over low heat until it begins to simmer. This will be the base in which your meatballs cook, infusing them with rich tomato flavor.
- Shape the Meatballs: Use a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the meatballs, then roll them between your hands to make them round. If the mixture is sticky, wet your hands with a little water to help with shaping.
- Cook the Meatballs: Immediately drop the meatballs into the simmering marinara sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through to ensure even cooking. The meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
- Broil with Cheese: Preheat your broiler. Once the meatballs are cooked, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over them, followed by all of the shredded mozzarella. Place the pan under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from the broiler and garnish with fresh basil. Serve the meatballs over pasta, rice, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil can elevate the flavor of the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried can be used, but reduce the amount by about half.
- Avoid Sticking: If your meatball mixture is sticking to your hands while shaping, wet your hands with a little water. This makes the process easier and helps form perfect meatballs.
