These chicken meatball subs are cheesy, golden and garlicky with just the right amount of heat. This combination hits that sweet spot between cozy and craveable. They’re juicy, buttery, and built for weeknights when you want big flavor without much fuss.

Featured Standouts

Ground Chicken

Ground chicken provides a lean and healthy foundation, a welcome alternative to traditional beef or pork. But lean doesn’t mean dry. The meatballs remain incredibly moist and tender through torn bread while pats of butter infuses it with richness. This results in a succulent meatball that’s light yet satisfying.

Crushed Red Pepper

More than just heat, crushed red pepper flakes introduce a subtle, inviting warmth that awakens the palate without overpowering it. It’s a gentle kick that adds depth and excitement. It cuts through the richness of the other ingredients. It leaves a pleasant, lingering tingle that keeps you coming back for more.

Fresh Basil

The vibrant, herbaceous notes of fresh basil are indispensable. Sprinkled generously, its clean, slightly peppery flavor provides a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors of the sauce. It also balances the sometimes intense flavors of the meatballs. It acts as a natural palate cleanser, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy and adding an irresistible aromatic lift.

Garlic (Lots of it!)

I wholeheartedly embrace utilizing garlic in overly generous quantities to build layers of complexity. When roasted, it transforms, offering a delicate sweetness and a nuanced, nutty undertone. In its raw form, it provides a sharp, pungent bite that adds an invigorating edge. These different expressions of garlic combine to create a flavor profile that is rich and multifaceted. The profile is both comforting and exciting.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST CHICKEN MEATBALL SUB

For Dairy-Free Diners

Accommodating dietary needs is simple. If you’re avoiding dairy, use olive oil as a quick and effective alternative. Brush your rolls generously with it. This keeps them dairy-free. It also adds a lovely golden sheen. The oil provides a subtle, fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Effortless Cleanup

Say goodbye to splattered stovetops! Instead of pan-searing, which can often lead to a messy cleanup, opt for baking or air frying your meatballs. Both methods yield perfectly cooked, evenly browned meatballs with minimal fuss. Baking on a parchment-lined sheet pan ensures easy removal. It also ensures quick cleanup. Air frying offers a wonderfully crispy exterior in less time.

The Magic of Leftovers

Don’t underestimate the power of time. Our meatballs are designed to taste even better as leftovers. Reheating them gently in their sauce allows the flavors more time to meld and deepen. This results in an even richer and more satisfying experience. They’re perfect for meal prepping or enjoying a quick and delicious meal the following day.

Inclusive Adaptions

For Easier Grip and Handling

We recommend shaping meatballs slightly larger to enhance the dining experience. This is especially helpful for those who may find smaller meatballs challenging to grip or manage with a fork. This minor adjustment significantly improves ease of handling, making each bite more secure and enjoyable.

Reducing Effort

Hand-rolling dozens of meatballs can be time-consuming and tiring. To reduce effort and streamline the process, consider using a scoop or a spoon rest. This approach makes forming the meatballs quicker. It also helps create consistently sized portions without extensive manual shaping.

For Sensitive Chewing

For individuals with sensitive chewing needs, consider an easy modification. Flatten the meatballs into patties. This offers a more uniform texture. This alters the consistency, making the texture more even and significantly easier to bite through. The flavor remains the same, but the eating experience becomes much more comfortable and enjoyable.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

Mixing bowl

baking sheet or skillet

tongs

spoon

small saucepan

SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO

GARLIC BEEF TIPS & ONIONS

Za’atar Spiced Meatballs

AVOCADO WASABI PASTA SALAD

ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH

Supreme Salad

GRILLED RIBEYE & ALLEPO & SHALLOT CHIMICHURRI

CAST IRON RIBEYE + BLUE CHEESE BUTTER

Recipe

Marissa Bolden

Chicken Meatball Subs

Golden, garlicky, and just the right amount of heat — these chicken meatball subs hit that sweet spot between cozy and craveable. They’re juicy, buttery, and built for weeknights when you want big flavor without much fuss.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 subs

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 6 garlic cloves minced
• ½ cup torn bread
• 1 Tbsp garlic powder
• 1 egg
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp salt
• 1 Tbsp black pepper
• 2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 5 fresh basil leaves chopped
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese

Method

 

1. Prepare Meatballs: In a bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, torn bread, egg, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Form the mixture into meatballs or patties.
2. Sear Meatballs: Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meatballs until they are golden brown on all sides.
3. Bake Meatballs: Transfer the seared meatballs to a baking dish and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 minutes.
4. Assemble Subs: Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise. Place a slice of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll. Top with the cooked meatballs, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Finish Subs: Bake the assembled subs until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the rolls are crispy. Garnish with freshly torn basil before serving.

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