Description
Baked Chicken Parmesan Meatballs combine lean ground chicken with savory herbs, plant-based cheese, and a natural gelling agent to create tender, flavorful meatballs. Baked to golden perfection and topped with natural tomato sauce and melted plant-based cheese, this recipe is perfect for a healthy, comforting meal or appetizer that pleases family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free panko/almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 egg substitute mixed with 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 1 cup tomato sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (natural)
Optional Variations
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for spicy kick)
- Additional plant-based mozzarella (plant-based) and parmesan (plant-based) for extra cheesiness
- Fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley
- 1/4 cup finely grated zucchini or carrots (vegetable boost)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded plant-based cheese, breadcrumbs (or gluten-free substitute), chopped parsley, garlic powder, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), Italian seasoning (natural), and the egg substitute mixed with a small amount of natural gelling agent. Mix thoroughly but gently until evenly incorporated, avoiding overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using clean hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs around 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Bake the Meatballs: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatballs for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and lightly golden on the edges.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Cheese: Remove the tray from the oven and spoon generous amounts of natural tomato sauce over each meatball. Sprinkle additional plant-based cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the meatballs to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes or over spaghetti for a classic presentation.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid toughness.
- Use a scoop to ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Always preheat the oven to ensure consistent cooking and browning.
- Let meatballs rest after baking to redistribute juices and enhance flavor.
- Prefer fresh herbs for a vibrant and fresh flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: baked chicken parmesan meatballs, plant-based cheese meatballs, gluten-free meatballs, easy chicken meatballs, healthy Italian meatballs
