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 breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Homemade Bliss

I absolutely love making these Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs as they're not only simple to prepare but are also bursting with flavor. The combination of ground chicken and Parmesan cheese creates the perfect balance of tenderness and taste. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be served with spaghetti, in a sandwich, or simply enjoyed on their own. Whether I'm hosting a dinner party or just whipping up a weeknight meal, these meatballs never fail to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:45:35.368Z

When I first experimented with ground chicken for meatballs, I was surprised by how moist and flavorful they turned out. The addition of Parmesan cheese not only enhances the taste but also helps bind the meatballs for the perfect texture. I recommend letting the mixture rest for a few minutes before rolling them to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

My secret tip? I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, which complements the richness of the chicken and cheese. Serving them with a homemade marinara sauce elevates the dish even further and makes it a family favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy and flavorful bites enhanced with Parmesan cheese
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile dish enjoyed by kids and adults alike

Meatball Mastery

The key to achieving juicy Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs lies in the balance of moisture from the ground chicken and the binding agents like breadcrumbs and egg. Ground chicken can be leaner than other meats, which means it’s essential to not overwork the mixture while combining ingredients. Mixing gently just until combined ensures the meatballs retain their tender texture. If you notice the mixture is too dry, adding a splash of milk or an extra egg can help maintain tenderness.

When forming the meatballs, using a cookie scoop can help achieve uniform sizes, which is important for even cooking. If your hands are sticky, wetting them lightly with water or oil can make the process smoother. Aim for 1-inch meatballs for optimal cooking time; this size will allow them to cook evenly and thoroughly in 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end—they should be golden brown and reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Perfecting the Sauce

While the meatballs bake, preparing the marinara sauce is a great way to elevate the overall dish. You can use store-bought sauce for convenience, but enhancing it with additional herbs like basil or a hint of red wine can deepen the flavor. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes before adding the meatballs to infuse the flavors, making sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as salt levels can vary between brands of marinara sauce.

Consider using homemade marinara sauce if you have the time. Combining crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and basil in a slow cooker allows for a rich flavor that complements the meatballs beautifully. Letting your sauce simmer on low can lead to a well-rounded base, full of flavor—ideal for soaking into the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These meatballs shine when served with al dente spaghetti, but they’re also delicious on crusty bread as a meatball sub with melted mozzarella. For a lighter meal, consider serving them over a bed of zucchini noodles or with a side of roasted vegetables. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil just before serving can brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.

If you're looking for variations, try adding different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pecorino, into the meatball mixture for unique flavor profiles. For a kick, swap grassy parsley with fresh basil or cilantro, which bring a different herbal note. Additionally, you can freeze leftover meatballs; simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze before transfering to a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months and be reheated in a sauce or oven directly from frozen!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

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

Form the Meatballs

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

Bake the Meatballs

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in oregano and salt.

Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are done, add them to the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve hot with spaghetti or on crusty bread.

Enjoy these delicious meatballs with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, you can also add grated lemon zest to the mixture for a fresh twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. The role of breadcrumbs is to absorb moisture and create a tender meatball; thus, any substitute should serve a similar purpose. You can also use crushed cornflakes or oats as a binder, offering a unique flavor twist while keeping the meatballs together.

For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan. Use about 1/4 cup per pound of meat unless you want a strong flavor, in which case adjust to your preference. If you're avoiding eggs, consider using a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water set to thicken), achieving similar binding results without the egg.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing these meatballs ahead of time is a great strategy for busy weeknights. You can assemble the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. They can also be frozen raw; just remember to space them out on a baking sheet before storing in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook them from frozen, adding to your sauce to extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.

Leftover meatballs can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat them gently in the microwave, or for the best texture, place them in a baking dish with sauce and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes. This will ensure they stay moist and flavorful while being evenly heated through.

Cooking Troubleshooting

If your meatballs fall apart during cooking, it often indicates insufficient binding or moisture. Ensure you’re using enough breadcrumbs and egg, and mix just until combined to maintain the structure. Adding a touch of grated cheese can enhance both flavor and binding if needed. If they're too dense, you may have mixed too vigorously—gentleness maintains tenderness, so remember to handle the mixture lightly.

Watch the meatball’s cooking time carefully. If they’re overcooked, they might turn tough. Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without going beyond, preserving their juicy nature. If your oven tends to cook unevenly, rotating the baking sheet halfway through cooking can help achieve consistent browning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of ground chicken?

Yes, ground turkey or beef can also be used for this recipe.

→ How do you store leftover meatballs?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.