Save Experience the perfect fusion of comfort and heat with these Baked Spicy Chicken Parm Meatballs. Inspired by the bold flavors of a classic spicy chicken sandwich, these juicy meatballs are nestled in a rich marinara sauce and blanketed with bubbly, golden mozzarella cheese for a satisfying twist on an Italian-American favorite.
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By incorporating smoked paprika and cayenne directly into the ground chicken mixture, every bite offers a warming spice that is perfectly balanced by the tangy marinara and creamy mozzarella. It is a hearty main dish that brings excitement to the dinner table.
Ingredients
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- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 cups (480 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne, onion powder, oregano, and hot sauce. Mix until just combined.
- Step 3: Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch (4 cm) meatballs and brown them in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Step 4: Spread half the marinara sauce in the baking dish. Arrange meatballs on top and spoon over the remaining sauce.
- Step 5: Bake for 15 minutes, then top with mozzarella and bake for another 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
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To ensure the best results, use damp hands when rolling your meatballs to keep the mixture from sticking. For a different lean protein option, you can swap the ground chicken for ground turkey. You can also adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne and hot sauce.
Save Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these Baked Spicy Chicken Parm Meatballs are a flavorful crowd-pleaser that reimagines the chicken parmesan you know and love.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works as a direct substitute for chicken in this preparation.
- → How spicy are these meatballs?
The heat level comes from cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Adjust the amounts to your preference—reduce cayenne to 1/4 tsp for mild heat or increase for extra spice.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Prepare and brown the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Store refrigerated, then complete baking with sauce and cheese when ready to serve.
- → What should I serve with these meatballs?
These pair well over spaghetti, with garlic bread, or inside toasted hoagie rolls for a sandwich variation.
- → How do I make them gluten-free?
Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
