Looking for a mouthwatering twist on a classic dish? Look no further than Baked Cheesy Italian Chicken Meatballs! Bursting with flavor and ooey-gooey cheese, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering, these meatballs are as versatile as they are delicious.
**Ingredients:**
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Marinara sauce, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix until everything is evenly combined.
3. Take a small portion of the mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, then shape the mixture into a ball, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
6. Serve the meatballs hot with marinara sauce for dipping or spooned over pasta for a hearty meal.
**Tips:**
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs. Mix until everything is just combined.
- For extra flavor, you can sauté some finely chopped onions and garlic before adding them to the meatball mixture.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as basil or red pepper flakes.
- Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
**Conclusion:**
Baked Cheesy Italian Chicken Meatballs are a delicious and satisfying dish that will please even the pickiest of eaters. With their juicy chicken base, savory Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella center, these meatballs are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or snack, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!
