For Serving: with marinara sauce, or over sauced noodles
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, egg, salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Using clean hands, mix until just combined. Set aside.
Using a sharp knife, cut the mozzarella cheese into small, equal-sized cubes, about ¼ inch. Set aside.
In a small bowl, stir together the breading mixture: panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture and flatten it slightly. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then wrap the chicken around the cheese, sealing it completely. Gently roll into a ball, then toss in the breading mixture until coated.
Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Serve warm with marinara sauce or sauced noodles.
Notes
Note 1: Either make your own ground chicken using a food processor or buy it.Note 2: Skip the parmesan cheese in the green container and purchase fresh grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.Serve as an appetizer with a warm marinara dip or over sauced noodles with fresh basil and more grated parmesan cheese.