ONE DISH BAKED CHICKEN MEATBALLS

10 minutes Prep Time
25 minutes Cook Time
4 Servings

This One-Dish Baked Chicken Meatballs with fresh tomato sauce is the kind of cozy, family-style dinner that feels impressive but comes together with minimal effort and only one baking dish. Tender chicken meatballs bake right in a bright, garlicky tomato sauce, soaking up all the flavor while staying incredibly juicy. Finished with melty mozzarella, fresh basil, and parmesan, it’s a simple comfort meal that tastes like something you’d order at an Italian restaurant — perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or serving guests without a sink full of dishes. @teresalforehand

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or half panko for lighter texture)
  • 3 tbsp finely grated onion
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
  • Zest of 1/2 – 1 lemon
  • 3 tbsp milk (keeps them tender)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 can Tuttorosso Crushed Tomatoes with basil 28 oz

  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 – 1 tsp salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp honey
  • 1-2 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2cup water or broth
  • 3/4 – 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • fresh grated parmesan
  • fresh basil

Instructions

Step one

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Step two

Make the meatball mixture by combining the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated onion, Italian seasoning, parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic, egg + egg yolk, lemon zest, milk, and olive oil in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined.

Step three

Prepare the sauce in a 9×13 baking dish. Add the crushed tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, honey, lemon juice, and water or broth. Stir until smooth and combined.

Step four

Form the meatballs into slightly larger balls (about 2–3 tablespoons each) and place them directly into the sauce. Gently press them down slightly, leaving the tops exposed.

Step five

Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.

Step six

Add the mozzarella over the top and return to the oven for 3–5 minutes until melted.

Step seven

Broil for 1–2 minutes if desired, until the cheese is lightly golden and bubbly.

Step eight

Finish and serve with fresh basil, grated parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or over polenta.

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