Cheesy Chicken Meatballs Recipe 🧀🍗
These Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and loaded with gooey cheese inside! They’re perfect as an appetizer, served over pasta, or stuffed into a sandwich. With the option to make them spicy or not, these meatballs are versatile and sure to be a hit at your next meal!
Ingredients (Makes About 20 Meatballs)
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Sauce (Optional):
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (or any preferred sauce)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, mozzarella, egg, garlic, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls. Continue until all the mixture is used.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Stovetop Method:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Once browned, remove the meatballs and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
Step 3: Simmer in Sauce (Optional but Recommended!)
- In a separate pan, heat marinara sauce (or any sauce of your choice) over medium heat.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for about 5 minutes, spooning sauce over them to coat evenly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Sprinkle the meatballs with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty garlic bread. You can also use them as a filling for sandwiches or sliders. 🍝🥖
Optional: Spice It Up!
Want a little extra heat? Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the sauce for a spicier version. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your food!
Q&A Section
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken in this recipe! The flavor and texture will be similar, and the cooking time will remain about the same.
Q: Can I freeze these meatballs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the meatballs! After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or simmer them in sauce until heated through.
Q: How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
A: Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use almond flour as a substitute. The texture will be just as delicious!
Q: Can I add more cheese for a cheesier inside?
A: Absolutely! You can add extra shredded cheese inside the meatballs for an even gooier bite. Try mozzarella or cheddar, depending on your preference.
Q: What should I do if my meatball mixture is too dry?
A: If your mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon or two of milk or water to moisten it. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until it reaches a moldable consistency.
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before cooking for longer storage.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone. Each cheese will add a unique flavor and texture to the meatballs.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are a simple yet delicious meal, whether you’re making them as an appetizer, serving them over pasta, or turning them into a hearty sandwich. With gooey cheese on the inside and a crispy golden exterior, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Add some extra spice or adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences! Enjoy! 🍽️