RecipeCastle

Chicken Parm Meatballs: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food

Chicken Parm Meatballs: A Delicious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Serves
12

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 poundsground chicken: The base of our meatballs (providing a leaner alternative to beef.)
  • 1/2 cupbreadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together while adding a subtle crunch.
  • 2 tablespoonschopped onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and texture.
  • 1 tablespoonchopped parsley: Brings a fresh (herbal note to the mix.)
  • 1/2 cupPecorino (or Parm: Infuses the meatballs with a salty, umami flavor.)
  • —Salt to taste: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • —Pepper to taste: Adds a slight kick and depth.
  • 1 clovegarlic (minced: A key ingredient for its aromatic qualities.)
  • 1 teaspoonfennel seeds: Introduces a slight anise flavor (complementing the chicken.)
  • 1egg (whisked: Acts as a binder, holding the meatballs together.)
  • —Zest of half a lemon: Provides a bright (citrusy lift to the meatballs.)
  • 3 tablespoonsolive oil: Used for mixing with pizza sauce to brush on meatballs for added moisture and flavor.
  • 1 14- ouncecan storebought pizza sauce: Coats the meatballs (adding a rich, tomatoey base.)
  • —About 4 ounces fresh mozzarella: Tops the meatballs (melting into a gooey, cheesy layer.)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 400°F, ensuring the rack is in the upper third of the oven for optimal cooking.

  2. 2

    Mix the meatball ingredients in a large bowl. Combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, Pecorino (or Parm), salt, pepper, minced garlic, fennel seeds, whisked egg, and lemon zest. Do this gently with your hands to keep the mixture light.

  3. 3

    Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a lacrosse ball, and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet, spaced a few inches apart.

  4. 4

    Prepare the sauce mixture by combining a spoonful of pizza sauce with olive oil in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over each meatball.

  5. 5

    Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven. Top each meatball with a spoonful of pizza sauce and a slice of fresh mozzarella.

  6. 6

    Broil for 3 to 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Meanwhile, heat the remaining pizza sauce in a small saucepan.

  7. 7

    Serve the meatballs with a dollop of the warmed sauce, accompanied by a side of your choice, such as a raw Tuscan kale salad.