Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Name: Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; Marinara sauce; Cooked spaghetti; Additional grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs! They're not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor. The combination of lean ground chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering dish that my family adores. These meatballs are perfect for weeknight dinners or as a game-day snack, served with marinara sauce and spaghetti. The best part is that they come together in less than an hour, making them a go-to recipe in our household.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:36:44.716Z

When I first tried making these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, I was thrilled by how easy they were! The simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible for everyone, even if you're short on time. I like to bake them in the oven rather than frying, which keeps them tender and juicy without the extra oil. This method also allows me to prepare other dishes simultaneously.

One favorite tip I discovered is to let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures they stay moist when serving. Trust me, your family will think you're a culinary genius!

Why You'll Love These Meatballs
Juicy and flavorful, making every bite a delight
A healthier alternative without sacrificing taste
Perfect for both a family dinner and casual gatherings

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely

The quality of your ground chicken plays a significant role in the flavor and moisture of the meatballs. Opt for fresh, lean ground chicken from a trusted source. If you prefer a richer flavor profile, you can use ground chicken thighs instead of breast meat, which can yield juicier meatballs. Additionally, try using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated. The fresher cheese not only melts better but also contributes to a more robust taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Herbs can elevate the freshness of your meatballs dramatically. While fresh parsley is a staple in this recipe, consider substituting or adding other fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a twist. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, use dried versions but reduce the amount slightly, as dried herbs are more potent. A teaspoon of dried herbs should suffice for this recipe, which will still impart great flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Mastering the Meatball Technique

When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overwork the meat. Just blend until all ingredients are incorporated; this keeps the meatballs tender and prevents them from becoming dense. If the mixture feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind it together without taking away from moisture. It's better to err on the side of caution with moisture since baking will dry them out slightly.

Shaping the meatballs is another crucial step. Make sure to wet your hands slightly when rolling the meatballs to prevent sticking. This technique helps create a smooth surface, allowing them to retain moisture while baking. As you place them on the baking sheet, ensure they have some space between each one, which promotes even cooking and a nice exterior texture. Check them halfway through baking; if the edges begin to brown too quickly, rotate the pan for even heat distribution.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano

For Serving

Marinara sauce
Cooked spaghetti
Additional grated Parmesan cheese

Mix together all the ingredients thoroughly before forming into balls.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until just combined.

Shape Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake Meatballs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden on the outside.

Serve

Serve the meatballs with marinara sauce over cooked spaghetti, topped with additional Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture, or serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These meatballs are fantastic for meal prep! You can make the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before shaping and baking. If you want to prepare them further in advance, shape the meatballs and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container, and they'll keep well for up to three months. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating is straightforward, too. When you have leftovers, reheat meatballs in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If you want to add some crispiness to leftover meatballs, consider pan-searing them on the stovetop after reheating.

Serving Suggestions

For a classic serving approach, try tossing the meatballs with spaghetti and marinara sauce as suggested. However, feel free to get creative! These meatballs are delicious served in a sub sandwich with melted mozzarella and fresh basil for a tasty meatball sub, or even atop a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb version. The possibilities are endless, making this a versatile dish.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider garnishing the meatballs with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad will round out the meal perfectly. With various serving options, this dish can easily be transformed to fit any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to an exciting game-day gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a similar texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What sides go well with these meatballs?

They pair wonderfully with a salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.