Name: Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 large egg; 3 cloves garlic, grated; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoon olive oil; 1 jar marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella; 2 tablespoon parsley to serve

Craving a cozy, satisfying Italian classic without all the fuss? Let me introduce you to Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs, an irresistible one-skillet wonder that’s equal parts cheesy comfort and weeknight ease. Tender chicken meatballs are quickly seared for a golden crust, then bathed in luscious marinara and smothered with bubbling mozzarella — all in just half an hour. This is the kind of meal that wows on the busiest nights, yet feels hearty and special enough for a family Sunday sit-down. You truly can’t beat the flavors and convenience of Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs!

Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This flavorful dish is built on just a handful of staple ingredients, each handpicked for maximum flavor and perfect texture. You likely have most of them already, but every element plays a starring role in making these Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs memorable.

Ground chicken: Lean, juicy, and perfect for soaking up the bold Italian flavors.
Large egg: Acts as the binding agent to hold the meatballs together for the perfect tender bite.
Garlic (grated): Adds a punch of aromatic depth and layers every bite with classic Italian flavor.
Grated parmesan cheese: Lends nuttiness and a salty, umami-rich kick that takes the flavor over the top.
Fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens up the savory flavors and adds a splash of fresh, herby color.
Italian breadcrumbs: Soaks up moisture and gives the meatballs their irresistibly tender texture.
Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors and brings all the seasonings together harmoniously.
Black pepper: Offers the perfect subtle hint of warmth and earthiness.
Olive oil: Ensures a beautifully golden sear and a touch of Mediterranean richness.
Marinara sauce (jarred): The shortcut hero that keeps things quick while supplying loads of classic, tangy tomato flavor.
Shredded mozzarella: Melts into gooey goodness, forming that signature cheesy cap on every meatball.
Fresh parsley (for serving): Sprinkled on just before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. This step is key because it means your skillet can go straight from stovetop to oven, ensuring the meatballs finish off perfectly melted, bubbly, and cooked throughout. Grab an oven-safe skillet — cast iron really shines here!

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, grated garlic, parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, Italian breadcrumbs, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands or a sturdy fork to gently mix everything just until it comes together. Overmixing can make the meatballs tougher, so keep it light and easy.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Scoop up the chicken mixture and form it into 8 to 10 large, evenly sized meatballs. If you have a cookie scoop, it makes this step super quick and keeps everything uniform for even cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, gently nestle the meatballs in and sear each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until golden all over. This step builds a tasty crust and locks in all those savory juices for the ultimate Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the marinara sauce all around and over the meatballs, taking care not to splash yourself with hot oil. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over everything, making sure each meatball gets its fair share of that melty cheesy magic.

Step 6: Bake to Finish

Slide the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. The meatballs should reach an internal temp of 165℉. Once out, shower the dish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright finishing touch. Your Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds just the right hint of color and freshness, and if you’re feeling extra, a little more grated parmesan never hurts. Sometimes a light drizzle of good olive oil gives everything a glossy, inviting finish.

Side Dishes

These meatballs are absolute stars over spaghetti, but they also shine with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty garlic bread. The saucy, cheesy combination begs for something hearty to mop up all the tomatoey goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs slider-style on toasted brioche buns for a fun party twist. Or, spoon them over polenta or creamy mashed potatoes if you want to mix things up from the usual pasta pairing — both options soak up the sauce beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover meatballs and sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate. Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs keep well for up to three days, making leftovers a lunchtime favorite.

Freezing

To freeze, let the meatballs and sauce cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-friendly container or bag, and freeze for up to two months. You can freeze them with or without the cheesy topping, but adding fresh mozzarella after reheating makes them extra tasty.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or extra sauce as needed. The microwave works too, but the oven or stove gives you that fresh-out-of-the-skillet flavor and keeps the cheese gooey.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for these meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this recipe, keeping things lean and tender. Just like chicken, it soaks up the Italian flavors and bakes up just as juicy and delicious.

Do I need to use fresh breadcrumbs or will store-bought work?

Store-bought Italian breadcrumbs work great here, offering plenty of flavor and ease. If you have homemade, even better, but don’t stress — the pre-seasoned kind adds just the right mix of texture and taste.

Can I make these Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best way to tell if the meatballs are cooked through?

The most reliable way is to check that the internal temperature of the thickest meatball reaches 165℉. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one open and make sure there’s no pink left inside and the juices run clear.

Can I prepare Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs ahead of time?

You certainly can! Form the meatballs and keep them chilled until you’re ready to cook, or sear in advance and finish in the oven later. It’s a great time-saver for busy nights.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both comforting and quick, give Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs a place on your weekly menu. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, and your kitchen will be filled with the most inviting, cheesy aroma. I hope you enjoy sharing these with your loved ones as much as I do — happy cooking!

Skillet Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe