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 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Marinara sauce; Spaghetti or your favorite pasta (optional); Additional grated parmesan for topping

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely adore making these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs! They are perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The combination of lean ground chicken, rich parmesan, and a touch of Italian herbs creates a flavorful and juicy meatball that pairs beautifully with spaghetti or simply enjoyed on their own. I love how quickly they come together—dinner is ready in no time and the smell that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try these, they'll become a staple in your home too.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-28T05:33:34.739Z

When I first created these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, I was looking for a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. Ground chicken turned out to be the perfect solution, delivering the same comforting feel but with a lighter touch. I made sure to incorporate freshly grated parmesan and Italian herbs, ensuring each bite is flavorful and savory.

One of my favorite tips is to mix the ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Also, baking them in the oven instead of frying makes cleanup easier while still yielding perfectly moist and delicious results. Once you try these, you’ll realize they are as easy to make as they are delightful to eat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy and flavorful chicken meatballs infused with Italian spices
Baked, not fried, for a healthier twist on a classic dish
Pairs wonderfully with pasta or as a savory snack

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The star of these meatballs is definitely the ground chicken. Its lean nature ensures a healthier dish compared to traditional beef or pork, while still retaining moistness when properly cooked. A key tip is not to overmix the ground chicken; combine the ingredients just until they are incorporated for the most tender result. Adding an egg helps bind everything together, providing structure and moisture that prevents the meatballs from becoming dry.

Parmesan cheese not only brings a savory depth to the meatballs but also contributes to their umami flavor. I recommend using freshly grated parmesan as it melts and integrates into the mixture more effectively than pre-grated varieties. The breadcrumbs serve a dual purpose: they absorb moisture and help with the texture, creating a delightful bite. For a gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with ground oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Baking Tips for Perfect Meatballs

Baking the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving that golden brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy. To ensure even cooking, space the meatballs about an inch apart on your baking sheet. Feel free to use a cooling rack placed over the baking sheet; this method enables hot air to circulate around the meatballs for a more uniform cooking process. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes; they should be golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

If you prefer a bit of a crispy texture, you can broil the meatballs for the last couple of minutes of baking. Just make sure to stay vigilant, as broiling can quickly turn from crispy to burnt. Another tip is to rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to promote even browning, especially if your oven has hot spots.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Marinara sauce
Spaghetti or your favorite pasta (optional)
Additional grated parmesan for topping

Mix all meatball ingredients in a large bowl and form into balls.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

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

Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Meatballs

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

Serve with Sauce

Warm marinara sauce in a pan and serve over cooked spaghetti or alongside the meatballs. Sprinkle with extra parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade ground chicken parmesan meatballs!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or using homemade marinara sauce for serving. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs for a quick dinner option later.

Serving Suggestions

These Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs shine when paired with marinara sauce. To elevate the dish, consider simmering your sauce with fresh basil or a splash of red wine for added depth. You can serve the meatballs alongside the sauce as an appetizer or on top of a bed of spaghetti for a satisfying meal. For a fun twist, try serving them as meatball subs on toasted bread with extra marinara and melted cheese–it’s a fantastic way to change up your usual pasta night.

For a lighter option, serve them alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. I often enjoy them as snacks, dipped in marinara or a zesty garlic aioli. Leftovers also make a delightful addition to a grain bowl–simply layer them over quinoa or brown rice with your favorite veggies for a quick lunch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These meatballs store beautifully, making them great for meal prep. After they've cooled completely, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you’d like to make them ahead, you can also freeze them. Arrange the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

When reheating, placing them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes works well. If you're in a hurry, microwaving them is also an option, but be cautious as they can dry out; try covering them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Always check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken and will yield equally delicious meatballs.

→ What should I serve these meatballs with?

These meatballs are fantastic served with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad.

→ Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.