Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Instructions

Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Servings: 4

Flavorful and succulent chicken meatballs infused with parmesan and Italian spices served atop marinara sauce over pasta!

ingredients

For the meatballs:

• 1 pound ground chicken (or beef or turkey)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs (gluten-free for gluten-free) *
• 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese), finely grated
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (link) (or oregano)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (or to preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped (optional)

For the meal:

• 8 ounces pasta (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (link)

directions

For the meatballs:

1. Combine all ingredients thoroughly, shape into 2 tablespoon balls, arrange on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 400F/200C oven until fully cooked (165F) and lightly golden brown, approximately 25-30 minutes.

For the meal:

2. Prepare the pasta according to package instructions.
3. Heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan, add in the cooked meatballs, stir together, and serve over the cooked and drained pasta.

Note: * You may use standard breadcrumbs or panko bread crumbs, and regular or Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs are acceptable.
Option: Incorporate 1 small onion, grated, into the meatballs.
Option: Mix in 2 cloves garlic, minced/grated, with the meatballs.
Option: Include 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped, in the meatballs.
Option: Add 1 tablespoon basil, chopped, into the meatballs.
Option: Substitute the spinach with: 1 cup zucchini, shredded and squeezed to remove excess moisture.
Option: Top the meatballs and marinara sauce with 1 cup mozzarella, shredded, while still in the pan and allow it to melt prior to serving over the pasta!