Name: Easiest Baked Cheesy Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground chicken; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; ¼ cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing); Cooking spray (for baking sheet); Marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce for dipping or serving

Baked Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are a deliciously easy and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. These meatballs are tender, moist, and loaded with melted cheese inside, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. Unlike traditional fried meatballs, these are baked to golden perfection, making them lighter without sacrificing any flavor. Serve them with pasta, stuff them into sandwiches, or enjoy them as a protein-packed snack. This easy recipe ensures you get cheesy goodness without the hassle, and it’s perfect for both adults and kids. Let’s dive into how you can make these tasty meatballs effortlessly!

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground chicken
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
¼ cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
Cooking spray (for baking sheet)

Optional:

Marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce for dipping or serving

Preparation:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3:
Using a small ice cream scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each meatball.

Step 4:
Lightly brush the tops of the meatballs with olive oil. This helps them develop a golden-brown crust as they bake.

Step 5:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can broil them for an additional 2 minutes at the end for extra browning, if desired.

Variation:

Cheddar-Stuffed Meatballs: Add a small cube of cheddar inside each meatball for a gooey surprise in every bite.
Spicy Meatballs: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-friendly.
Asian-Inspired Meatballs: Swap the Italian seasoning for soy sauce and ginger for a different flavor profile, and serve with sweet chili sauce.

COOKING Note:

Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture; doing so will make the meatballs dense and tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to keep the meatballs light and tender. If the mixture feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs for better binding.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these cheesy chicken meatballs over spaghetti or your favorite pasta with marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal. You can also use them in meatball subs with melted mozzarella or toss them with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a decadent dish. For a lighter option, serve them with a side salad or over zoodles (zucchini noodles). They also make great appetizers when paired with toothpicks and a dipping sauce.

Tips:

Meal Prep Friendly: These meatballs freeze beautifully. Make a double batch, bake them, and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Adjust the Size: You can make smaller meatballs for appetizers or larger ones for a main course. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like sharp cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack to change the flavor profile.
Avoid Dryness: To prevent dry meatballs, avoid overbaking. Check the internal temperature to ensure they are just cooked through.
Reheating Tip: To reheat frozen meatballs, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 250
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to use a combination of dark and white meat to keep the meatballs moist.

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can form the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinner prep even quicker!

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Q: What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
A: Crushed crackers or even rolled oats can be used as a substitute for breadcrumbs in a pinch.

Q: Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking?
A: Yes, you can pan-fry them in a little olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. However, baking is easier and less messy.

Conclusion:

The Easiest Baked Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, cheesy meal without the fuss of frying. These meatballs are tender, moist, and full of flavor with the perfect cheesy touch. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, tossing them in pasta, or enjoying them as a quick snack, this recipe is sure to impress. The versatility of these meatballs allows you to experiment with flavors and sauces to suit your taste. Plus, they are great for meal prep and freezing, making them a go-to option for busy days. Enjoy these cheesy delights, and don’t forget to get creative with your favorite variations!