Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked spaghetti or pasta of your choice
Procedure:
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk or chicken broth, lightly beaten egg, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the chicken mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, depending on your preference.
- Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the meatballs for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet or a saucepan, add the crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Once the sauce is simmering, add the cooked meatballs back to the skillet or saucepan, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Cheese: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Once the meatballs have simmered, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs in the skillet or saucepan.
- Broil: Place the skillet or saucepan under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the Chicken Parmesan Meatballs from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
- Enjoy: Serve the Chicken Parmesan Meatballs hot and enjoy this delicious and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in meatball form!
These Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve them with pasta, a side salad, or crusty bread for a complete and delicious dinner!
