Description
Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs feature tender ground chicken meatballs baked to perfection, smothered in a rich natural tomato sauce, and topped with melted plant-based cheese. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, these juicy, flavorful meatballs offer a comforting and wholesome meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free option: gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing and drizzling)
Tomato Sauce (natural)
- 2 cups tomato sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Additional garlic or fresh herbs, optional for seasoning
Topping
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (such as mozzarella-style (plant-based))
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, finely chopped parsley and basil, minced garlic, beaten egg, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix just until evenly combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatballs for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through and beginning to turn golden.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce (natural): While the meatballs bake, warm the tomato sauce (natural) over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir in the natural gelling agent for perfect texture and season with extra garlic or herbs if desired.
- Combine and Top with Plant-Based Cheese: Once the meatballs are baked, transfer them into the warmed tomato sauce and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle plant-based cheese over the top and return to the oven for 5 more minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
Notes
- Ensure all meatballs are the same size for even cooking.
- Mix ingredients just until combined to prevent tough meatballs.
- Use fresh parsley and basil for brighter flavors instead of dried herbs.
- Let meatballs rest a few minutes after baking for juice redistribution.
- Watch the cheese during the final bake to avoid over-browning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: baked chicken meatballs, plant-based cheese, gluten-free, chicken parmesan, comfort food, homemade meatballs