Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs (Easy & Healthy)
These Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a lighter, easier version of the classic chicken parmesan — baked instead of fried for a healthier twist. They’re juicy on the inside, golden and crispy on the outside, and smothered in marinara sauce with melted mozzarella on top.Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings, this recipe is a satisfying comfort food that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Prepare the meatball mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, egg, milk, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Form the meatballs:
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Add sauce and cheese:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each meatball and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake again:
- Return to the oven for another 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.
Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy with pasta, a salad, or crusty bread.