Copycat Firehouse Subs Chicken Parmesan Meatball Recipe – A Cheesy, Saucy Delight!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Marinara Sauce Sauce:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

For Assembling the Sub:

– 2 sub rolls (hoagie-style or Italian rolls)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for toasting)
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

How to Make the Firehouse Subs Chicken Parmesan Meatball Sub Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

2. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

3. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the meatballs and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

3. Reduce the heat, cover, and let them cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Marinara Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir in basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

4. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Toast the Sub Rolls

1. Slice the sub rolls lengthwise but not all the way through.

2. Spread butter on the inside and toast on a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Sub

1. Place 3-4 chicken meatballs inside each toasted sub roll.

2. Spoon marinara sauce generously over the meatballs.

3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top.

4. Place the subs under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in crushed tomatoes and mix in basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.

Step 3: Simmer and Adjust Flavors

Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and add sugar if needed to balance acidity. Remove from heat and use immediately or store for later.

Tips and Tricks for Firehouse Subs Chicken Parmesan Meatball Sub Recipe

1. Use fresh ground chicken for the juiciest meatballs.

2. Toast the sub rolls well to prevent them from getting soggy.

3. Let the sauce simmer longer for a deeper, richer flavor.

4. For extra cheesiness, add more mozzarella or even a slice of provolone.

5. Make-ahead tip: Cook the meatballs and sauce in advance for a quicker meal.

Nutritions