If you’re craving a delightful twist on a classic favorite, the Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe is exactly what you need to impress your family and friends. These meatballs are juicy, packed with fresh herbs, and boasting that irresistible Parmesan crust that adds a perfect layer of savory crunch. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with bold Italian flavors in a way that’s easy, fun, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the foundation for any standout dish, and this recipe shines because it uses straightforward, fresh components that each play a special role in building flavor, texture, and that classic Parmesan appeal.
- 1 lb. ground chicken: The lean and tender base of the meatballs providing a lighter alternative to beef or pork.
- ½ cup bread crumbs (Italian): Adds structure and soaks up moisture to keep the meatballs perfectly tender.
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Brings salty, nutty richness—part goes in the mixture, part coats the outside for a scrumptious crust.
- 1 large egg (whisked): Acts as a binder, making sure your meatballs hold their shape while cooking.
- ¼ cup basil (chiffonade): Fresh herbs add a fragrant, sweet, and slightly peppery note.
- 2 cloves garlic (finely minced): Garlic infuses deep savory flavor throughout every bite.
- ½ tsp. lemon zest: A zesty brightness that lifts the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds classic Italian warmth and aroma.
- 1 tsp. salt (to taste): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ tsp. black pepper (to taste): Adds a subtle kick of spice for balance.
- ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes: Optional heat that adds a little personality to each meatball.
- 2-3 Tbsp. oil (avocado or olive): For cooking, helping the meatballs get that golden, crisp finish.
How to Make Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by placing the ground chicken, bread crumbs, ½ cup of the grated Parmesan, whisked egg, basil, garlic, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes into a large bowl. Mix everything together with your hands or a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly combined, ensuring the flavors are well distributed throughout the meat mixture.
Step 2: Measure and Shape Meatballs
Scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture per meatball and gently roll it between your palms to form smooth, even balls. If the mixture feels sticky, lightly spray your hands with non-stick cooking spray or rub a touch of oil on them. This will make shaping the meatballs easier and less messy. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, resulting in about 20 perfectly portioned meatballs.
Step 3: Coat in Parmesan Cheese
Pour the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into a medium bowl. Toss each meatball in the cheese, fully coating the exterior. This step is crucial as it creates a luscious, crispy Parmesan crust when the meatballs hit the skillet, delivering that iconic Italian crunch with every bite.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of your preferred oil in a large skillet over medium heat, making sure the bottom is thoroughly coated. Once the oil shimmers and starts sizzling lightly, gently place the cheese-coated meatballs in a single layer. Let each side cook for about 1-2 minutes before using tongs to rotate, browning almost every side over a total of 7 to 8 minutes. This process seals in the juices and gives the meatballs an irresistible crispy shell.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these golden beauties right away, optionally garnished with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. The moment you take your first bite, the combination of tender, flavorful chicken and melty, crunchy Parmesan will make you a lifelong fan of this Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe.
How to Serve Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional grated Parmesan cheese are simple garnishes that elevate the dish’s aroma and visual appeal. A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a gourmet touch to these rustic meatballs.
Side Dishes
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them atop spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a traditional Italian meal, alongside a crisp Caesar salad for a lighter pairing, or even with garlic bread and a side of roasted vegetables to balance the flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the meatballs on skewers with cherry tomatoes and basil for an elegant appetizer. Alternatively, tuck them inside soft hoagie rolls with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a delightful meatball sub. Their handsome shape and rich flavor make them crowd-pleasers no matter the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This ensures they remain moist and flavorful, ready for a quick reheat when you need a tasty meal on the fly.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe later, freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their taste or texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat refrigerated or thawed meatballs in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through to maintain their crisp exterior and juicy interior. Alternatively, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook.
FAQs
Can I use regular chicken instead of ground chicken?
Ground chicken is ideal because it provides the perfect texture and binds efficiently with the other ingredients. If you have chicken breasts or thighs, pulse them in a food processor until finely ground, but avoid large pieces to keep the texture consistent.
Is it possible to bake these meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes. Baking is a great hands-off method that still results in juicy meatballs with a lovely crust.
What can I substitute for bread crumbs if I’m gluten-free?
Gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers work wonderfully in place of Italian bread crumbs. Almond meal or ground oats can also add great texture while keeping the meatballs moist and delicious.
Can these meatballs be made in advance for a party?
Yes! Prepare and roll the meatballs up to a day ahead, then keep them covered in the fridge. You can either cook them fresh on the day of your event or pre-cook and gently warm them just before serving.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
To turn up the heat, add extra red pepper flakes into the mixture, or serve them with a spicy marinara sauce or a drizzle of chili-infused olive oil. Freshly cracked black pepper will also heighten the overall spice level.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe that makes it an instant favorite in any kitchen. Simple ingredients combine with straightforward techniques to deliver a meal that is bursting with flavor and crunch. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—trust me, once you do, these meatballs will become your go-to comfort food that friends and family keep asking for again and again.
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Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 meatballs (serves approximately 20 as appetizer or 6-8 as main)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Ground Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a quick and delicious twist on classic Italian flavors, featuring tender ground chicken mixed with Parmesan, basil, and garlic, then pan-fried to crispy perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish served with your favorite pasta or salad.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- ½ cup Italian bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, whisked
- ¼ cup basil, chiffonade
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ tsp. lemon zest
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp. salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp. black pepper (to taste)
- ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes
Coating
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Cooking
- 2–3 Tbsp. oil (avocado or olive oil)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add ground chicken, bread crumbs, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, whisked egg, basil chiffonade, minced garlic, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a spatula until the mixture is well combined.
- Measure and Shape Meatballs: Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per meatball, scoop and roll into balls. If the mixture sticks to your hands, lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray or rub a small amount of oil on your hands. Prepare 20 meatballs.
- Coat Meatballs in Parmesan: Place the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a medium bowl. Roll each meatball individually in the cheese until fully coated, then set aside.
- Cook in Skillet: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it starts to sizzle. Arrange meatballs in a single layer in the skillet. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes, then use tongs to rotate the meatballs to ensure all sides get crisped over 7-8 minutes in total.
- Serve: Once cooked through and golden on all sides, serve meatballs immediately. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy these flavorful meatballs as an appetizer or alongside your favorite pasta or salad.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh Parmesan cheese for coating as it crisps up nicely in the skillet.
- You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil depending on preference.
- To keep meatballs moist, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
- If you prefer baking instead of frying, bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- These meatballs can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
