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Easy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Meatballs – Perfect Appetizer or Dinner Idea

Easy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Meatballs – Perfect Appetizer or Dinner Idea

Easy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Meatballs are a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish suitable for dinners, parties, or snacks. With a quick marinade, cheese-stuffed centers, and golden-brown perfection, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or salad, and enjoy juicy, cheesy bites every time.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 7
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Italian Fusion
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb 450g ground chicken
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour for low-carb
  • 2 large garlic cloves minced
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika optional
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for pan-frying, optional if baking
  • For the Marinade Optional but Recommended:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Substitution Tips:
  • Use dairy-free cheese for lactose-free option
  • Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or almond flour
  • Ground turkey or beef can replace chicken for a different flavor
  • Equipment Needed
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Baking sheet & parchment paper
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cookie scoop or spoon for shaping

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
  2. Mix olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Coat chicken and let sit 15 minutes for juicy meatballs.
  3. Combine Ingredients:
  4. In a large bowl, mix marinated chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently.
  5. Fold in Cheese:
  6. Add half of shredded mozzarella into the mixture for cheesy pockets inside the meatballs.
  7. Shape Meatballs:
  8. Scoop mixture (1.5-inch balls). Optionally, stuff a cube of mozzarella in the center for gooey bites.
  9. Preheat Oven or Pan:
  10. Bake: 400°F (200°C) with parchment-lined tray
  11. Fry: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil on medium
  12. Cook Meatballs:
  13. Baking: 15-20 min until golden and cooked
  14. Pan-Frying: Brown on all sides 5-7 min, cover and cook 8-10 min until done
  15. Add Toppings/Glaze:
  16. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella; cover 2-3 min until melted. Optional: marinara or garlic butter glaze.
  17. Check Doneness:
  18. Use a thermometer: internal temp 165°F (74°C)
  19. Garnish & Serve:
  20. Top with fresh parsley or basil. Serve with pasta, garlic bread, salad, or as appetizer.
  21. Optional Freezing:
  22. Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to bag. Cook from frozen with 5–10 min extra time.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan boosts flavor
  • Serve immediately for best gooey cheese experience
  • Can be frozen and cooked from frozen