Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs Recipe
Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs are tender, flavorful chicken meatballs baked to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy Parmesan and mozzarella cheese sauce. Served over comforting mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée and garnished with fresh herbs, this dish offers a delightful blend of Italian-inspired flavors and comforting textures perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Author: Daniel
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Chicken Bombs
- 500 g (1 lb) ground chicken
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan Sauce
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 1½ cups milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup mozzarella, shredded
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, to taste
To Serve
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée
- Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
- Olive oil or butter (optional, for finishing)
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) to prepare for baking the chicken bombs.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined to keep the texture tender.
- Shape and bake: Form the mixture into medium-sized balls, roughly the size of golf balls, and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken bombs are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Parmesan sauce: While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for one minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Incorporate cheeses and seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and velvety.
- Bake with sauce: Transfer the baked chicken bombs to a small casserole dish and pour the prepared Parmesan sauce evenly over them. Place under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Serve and garnish: Spoon mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée onto plates. Place the Parmesan cloud chicken bombs on top, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and a drizzle of olive oil or butter for extra richness.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture inside the chicken bombs.
- Mix the chicken mixture gently to avoid a dense texture.
- Half-and-half can be used in the sauce for a richer, creamier consistency.
- For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower purée instead of mashed potatoes.
- Broiling the chicken bombs with sauce last ensures a deliciously golden, bubbly topping.
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley add brightness and a fresh finish.
Keywords: Parmesan chicken bombs, baked chicken meatballs, creamy Parmesan sauce, comfort food, easy chicken recipe, mashed potatoes meal, Italian-inspired dinner