Cheesy Chicken Meatballs: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic favorite that never fails to impress. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I can assure you that these meatballs are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Originating from various culinary traditions, meatballs have been a staple in many households around the world, often served with pasta, in sandwiches, or simply enjoyed on their own. What makes Cheesy Chicken Meatballs so irresistible is their perfect combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a medley of spices that create a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

People adore this dish for its incredible taste and texture; the cheesy center melts in your mouth while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
• Olive oil (for frying)

Preparing the Meatball Mixture

Let’s get started on these delicious cheesy chicken meatballs! First, I like to gather all my ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. The cheese is what makes these meatballs extra special, so don’t skimp on it!
2. Add the chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the egg to the mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together.
3. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. I love a little heat, but it’s totally optional!
4. Using your hands (I find this is the best way to mix), gently combine all the ingredients until they are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Shaping the Meatballs

Now that we have our mixture ready, it’s time to shape the meatballs!

1. With clean hands, take a small amount of the mixture (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and roll it into a ball. I usually aim for a size that fits comfortably in the palm of my hand.
2. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup later on!
3. Continue shaping the rest of the mixture into meatballs until all of it is used up. You should have around 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size you choose.

Cooking the Meatballs

Now comes the fun part—cooking these cheesy delights!

1. In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, but not so much that the meatballs are swimming in it.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches. I usually cook about 8-10 meatballs at a time.
3. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes on one side until they are golden brown. Then, gently flip them over using tongs or a spatula.
4. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes on the other side until they are cooked through and have a nice golden crust. You can check for doneness by cutting one in half; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
5. Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Serving the Meatballs

Now that our meatballs are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up!

1. In the same skillet, you can add the marinara sauce to warm it up. This step is optional, but I love the flavor it adds to the meatballs.
2. Once the sauce is heated, gently add the meatballs back into the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Let them simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Serve the cheesy chicken meatballs hot, garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. They’re perfect on their own, over pasta, or even in a sub sandwich!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cheesy Chicken Meatballs are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a medley of spices creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can serve them over a bed of pasta, nestled in a sub roll with marinara sauce, or even as a delightful appetizer with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce. Feel free to get creative with variations too! You can swap out the chicken for turkey or add in your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating different types of cheese, like feta or pepper jack, for an extra kick. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made these Cheesy Chicken Meatballs, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this fantastic dish together! Happy cooking! Print