Name: Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/3 cup grated yellow onion; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 egg; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil, for garnish

Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe

This recipe transforms the traditional Chicken Parmesan into fun, handheld meatballs packed with juicy ground chicken, Parmesan, and a gooey mozzarella center. They’re seared for flavor, baked in marinara, and finished with fresh basil — delivering big, comforting flavors with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground chicken
½ cup grated parmesan
⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 egg
¾ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ cup flour
12 bocconcini mozzarella balls
¼ cup olive oil
24 ounces marinara sauce
Handful of basil leaves, torn

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Parmesan, panko, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Mix until evenly combined.
Form the mixture into golf ball–sized meatballs and insert a mozzarella bocconcini into the center of each, sealing the chicken mixture fully around the cheese.
Dredge each meatball lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat olive oil in a large heavy‑bottom skillet over medium‑high heat. Add half the meatballs and cook 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Repeat with the remaining meatballs.
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and nestle the browned meatballs on top.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
Remove from the oven, top with torn basil, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Baking only: Skip searing and bake meatballs at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, then simmer with sauce.
Sauce twists: Use vodka sauce or arrabbiata for a different flavor profile.
Cheese variants: If bocconcini isn’t available, use small cubes of fresh mozzarella instead.
Protein swap: Ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked or sautéed meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet; transfer to a freezer bag and store up to three months.
Reheat: Warm gently in the oven, microwave, or stovetop with sauce until heated through.

FAQs

What size should the meatballs be?

Aim for golf ball-sized meatballs so they cook evenly and have a good ratio of filling to sauce.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, you can prepare and shape the meatballs up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Do I have to brown the meatballs first?

Browning adds flavor and texture, but you could skip it and bake them directly — though the crust won’t be the same.

What can I serve these with?

They’re great over pasta, inside sub rolls, or on their own with crusty bread.

Can I use a different cheese center?

Yes, small cubes of fresh mozzarella or string cheese pieces work well.

How do I keep them from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well combined and don’t skip the breadcrumbs — they help bind the meatballs.

Can I bake these without a skillet?

Yes, you can bake them on a baking sheet in sauce, but use an ovenproof dish to keep sauce and meatballs together.

Are these gluten-free?

To make gluten‑free, swap panko breadcrumbs and all‑purpose flour for gluten‑free alternatives.

How can I make them spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes to add heat.

Can I use homemade marinara?

Absolutely — homemade marinara adds a fresh flavor boost.

Conclusion

These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic favorite, combining juicy seasoned chicken and oozing mozzarella with rich marinara sauce. Easy to prepare, versatile, and crowd‑pleasing, they’re perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With simple ingredients and satisfying results, this recipe earns a spot in your regular rotation.