Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs (Printable View)

Golden chicken balls topped with velvety Parmesan-mozzarella sauce and fresh herbs, served over mash.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken Mixture

01 - 1 pound ground chicken
02 - 1 large egg
03 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
04 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Parmesan Cream Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
13 - 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
14 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
15 - Salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg

→ For Serving & Garnish

16 - Mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée
17 - Chopped fresh thyme or parsley
18 - Extra-virgin olive oil or melted butter (for drizzling, optional)

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, gently combine ground chicken, egg, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
03 - Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized rounds and place onto the prepared tray. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
04 - Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook briefly to form a smooth roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; cook until silky and smooth.
05 - Arrange the baked chicken balls in a small casserole dish. Pour the hot Parmesan cream sauce over them. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the top is bubbling and lightly golden.
06 - Portion mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée onto plates. Set the chicken bombs on top, ladle with additional sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter if desired.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - Gently mix the chicken mixture to maintain moistness and avoid a dense result.
02 - Sauce can be made in advance and reheated gently, adding a splash of milk if needed.