Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Name: Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp oregano; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; Marinara sauce; Cooked spaghetti; Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

I love preparing Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs for a cozy family dinner. The combination of savory ground chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and vibrant herbs creates a mouthwatering balance that the whole family enjoys. I often serve them with marinara sauce and pasta, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and I appreciate how quick and easy they are to prepare. They’re perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for any gathering.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:40:50.523Z

When I first tried making these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, I was amazed by how tender they turned out. Using ground chicken instead of beef or pork gives them a lighter texture that pairs beautifully with the Parmesan cheese. I discovered that mixing the ingredients by hand instead of using a processor really helps keep the meatballs fluffy and moist, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

I love experimenting with different herbs and spices, but the classic combination of parsley and oregano never disappoints. In my experience, letting the meatballs rest for a few minutes after cooking helps them hold their shape and enhances the flavors even more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy and tender meatballs packed with flavor
A healthier twist using ground chicken
Pairs perfectly with pasta or as appetizers for parties

Understanding Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is a fantastic alternative to traditional beef or pork in meatball recipes. It's leaner, making it a healthier option while still delivering a satisfying texture. When using ground chicken, the key is to add moisture and flavor, which is why I include ingredients like Parmesan cheese and egg. These not only bind the meatballs together but also enhance the overall taste and juiciness, ensuring each bite is flavorful.

Another important aspect of working with ground chicken is being mindful of cooking times. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This cooking precision will ensure your meatballs remain tender and succulent. A reliable meat thermometer can be your best friend in achieving perfect results.

Perfecting the Meatball Form

When forming the meatballs, try to keep them uniform in size, around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, to ensure even cooking. Using an ice cream scoop can be particularly helpful for this task, making the process not only easier but also faster. A little light oil on your hands can prevent the mixture from sticking as you roll the meatballs, making them easy to shape.

If you find that the mixture is too sticky, don’t hesitate to adjust the consistency by adding a bit more breadcrumbs. Conversely, if it feels too dry, a splash of milk or an extra egg can help. These adjustments ensure that your meatballs maintain the perfect texture – juicy on the inside with a delightful exterior.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients listed below before you begin for a smoother cooking process.

Meatball Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp oregano
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Marinara sauce
Cooked spaghetti
Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start making the meatballs!

Instructions

Follow the steps below to create these delicious meatballs.

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Mixture

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

Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the meatballs with heated marinara sauce and cooked spaghetti. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes into the meatball mixture. To keep them extra moist, don't overmix the meat when forming the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs with marinara sauce and spaghetti is a classic choice, but don’t hesitate to get creative! These meatballs also shine as a stand-alone appetizer with toothpicks, making them perfect for parties. You could even serve them on a sub roll with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich that’s sure to please a crowd.

For a different twist, consider pairing the meatballs with zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option. This combination maintains the heartiness of the dish while adding fresh flavors from the vegetables. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can elevate the dish with a touch of heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These meatballs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a perfect solution for meal prepping. You can also freeze them before cooking; simply arrange the rolled meatballs on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months, allowing for quick dinners whenever you need them.

To reheat the frozen meatballs, bake them directly from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes until they are heated through. Adding a splash of marinara sauce on top while they bake can enhance moisture and flavor, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready straight from the freezer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and works well in this recipe.

→ How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use almond flour.

→ 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 should I serve with these meatballs?

They are delicious with marinara sauce and spaghetti, but can also be served on their own as appetizers.