Description

Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs feature juicy ground chicken meatballs baked to perfection and topped with rich tomato sauce (natural) and melted plant-based cheese (plant-based). Enhanced with fresh herbs, garlic, onion, and a natural gelling agent for perfect texture, these meatballs stay tender and moist, making them a delicious and effortless family favorite perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatball Mixture

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
1/4 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup onion, finely diced
1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian herbs
1/2 tsp natural gelling agent

Baking and Topping

2 tbsp olive oil (natural), for drizzling
1 cup tomato sauce (natural), warm
1/4 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, plant-based cheese (plant-based), chopped fresh basil and parsley, minced garlic, finely diced onion, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and natural gelling agent. Mix until fully incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat to maintain tenderness.
Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into evenly sized balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Avoid packing them too tightly. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Bake the Meatballs: Lightly drizzle the meatballs with olive oil (natural). Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning. The natural gelling agent will help keep them moist and set.
Add Tomato Sauce and Cheese: Remove the meatballs from the oven and spoon a generous layer of warm tomato sauce (natural) over each. Top with extra plant-based cheese (plant-based). Return to the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Final Touches: Once melted, garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil (natural) if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use a small cookie scoop to ensure uniform meatballs for consistent cooking.
Mix ingredients just enough to combine to maintain tender meatballs.
Let shaped meatballs rest in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before baking to hold shape better.
Use room temperature ingredients for better flavor blending.
Cook meatballs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 meatballs
Calories: 290
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken meatballs, baked chicken parmesan, plant-based cheese, gluten-free meatballs, Italian meatballs, weeknight dinner