One Pan Chicken Meatballs: Easy and Delicious Recipe for a Quick Dinner

One Pan Chicken Meatballs are not just a meal; they are a delightful experience that brings comfort and convenience to your kitchen. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, flavorful meatballs that are perfectly cooked and bursting with taste, all while being prepared in a single pan. This recipe has roots in various culinary traditions, showcasing the versatility of chicken as a protein that can be seasoned and paired with a myriad of ingredients.

What I love most about One Pan Chicken Meatballs is their incredible texture—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, the ease of cleanup makes this dish a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether served over pasta, in a sub, or alongside a fresh salad, these meatballs are sure to impress. Join me as we dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will quickly become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Meatballs

Let’s start by making the chicken meatballs. This is the fun part where you get to mix everything together!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Using your hands (I find this is the best way), mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Once everything is mixed, I like to take a small amount of the mixture and cook it in a skillet to taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
4. Now, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 20 meatballs from this mixture.

Cooking the Meatballs

Now that we have our meatballs ready, it’s time to cook them. This is where the one-pan magic happens!

1. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
2. Cook the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are browned on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point since they will finish cooking in the oven.
3. Once the meatballs are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Adding the Sauce

Now, let’s create a delicious base for our meatballs with marinara sauce.

1. In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; this adds great flavor!
2. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Once the sauce is simmering, return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Make sure they are mostly submerged in the sauce for even cooking.

Baking the Meatballs

Now it’s time to finish cooking the meatballs in the oven, which will also help meld all those wonderful flavors together.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Once the oven is preheated, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs and sauce.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Assembling and Serving

Now that everything is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve up this delicious dish!

1. Once the meatballs are out of the oven, let them sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. This will help the cheese set a bit.
2. Using a large spoon, carefully scoop out the meatballs along with some of the marinara sauce and place them on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. If you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
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Conclusion:

In summary, this One Pan Chicken Meatballs recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to simplify their weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor. The combination of juicy chicken meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce creates a delightful dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, the one-pan aspect means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book! For serving suggestions, I love pairing these meatballs with a side of fluffy rice or a fresh green salad to balance the meal. You can also switch things up by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even experimenting with various herbs and spices to suit your taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them in a sub roll with melted cheese for a delicious meatball sandwich! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this One Pan Chicken Meatballs recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

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