Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, flavorful meatballs that capture the essence of classic Italian cuisine—all without the fuss! Our Baked Caprese Chicken Meatballs are not just another dinner option; they’re a delightful twist on a beloved dish, combining the savory goodness of ground chicken with ooey-gooey mozzarella and fresh basil. Perfect for a family meal or a cozy gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded mozzarella, breadcrumbs, chopped basil, grated parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using clean hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently form the mixture into uniform meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. Aim to create about 12-14 meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each to ensure even heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan or microwave. Pour the sauce over the meatballs or serve on the side.
- Garnish with additional fresh chopped basil and serve hot, optionally with pasta, salad, or crusty bread.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh basil and high-quality mozzarella cheese. The freshness will really elevate the taste of your meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Uniform Size Matters: Aim for meatballs that are about
- 5 inches in diameter. This ensures they cook evenly and you get that perfect golden brown exterior.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they are cooked through while remaining juicy.
- Experiment with Sauces: While marinara is a classic pairing, don’t hesitate to try these meatballs with pesto or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Serve with Style: These meatballs are delicious on their own, but consider serving them over pasta, alongside a fresh salad, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 125mg
