Grilled

Grilled Chicken Meatball Subs

Name: Grilled Chicken Meatball Subs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground chicken; 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup (30g) grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil; 1 cup (250ml) marinara sauce; 4 sub rolls

By Delia Ingram · June 19, 2026 · Grilled

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total40 min

Serves4

There's something special about biting into a juicy, flavorful meatball sub, and when you make it with chicken, it's even better. I still remember the first time I made grilled chicken meatball subs for my family - the kids loved helping me shape the meatballs, and my husband was impressed by how easy it was to cook them to perfection on the grill.

As a home cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and fun for the whole family. Grilled chicken meatball subs fit the bill perfectly. You can make the meatballs ahead of time, and they're ready to grill in just a few minutes. Plus, you can customize the toppings to your family's liking - whether that's melted mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, or a sprinkle of parmesan.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. You can make a big batch of meatballs and freeze them for later, or you can grill them up fresh in just a few minutes. Either way, you'll have a delicious, satisfying meal that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

In this recipe, I'll show you how to make grilled chicken meatball subs from scratch, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. We'll cover everything from preparing the meatballs to grilling them to perfection, and I'll share some tips and tricks for getting the best results.

So if you're looking for a new recipe to add to your rotation, I hope you'll give grilled chicken meatball subs a try. They're easy, delicious, and fun to make, and I think you'll love them just as much as my family does.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make and customize to your family's taste
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch
Can be made ahead of time and frozen for later
Grilled to perfection for a juicy, flavorful meatball
Topped with tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese
Fun to make and eat, with a variety of topping options

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great grilled chicken meatball subs is to start with high-quality ingredients. That means using fresh, flavorful chicken, and mixing it with just the right amount of breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings. You want the meatballs to be juicy and tender, but still firm enough to hold their shape on the grill.

Another important factor is the temperature and timing of the grill. You want to cook the meatballs over medium-high heat, so they get a nice sear on the outside and cook through to a safe internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). This will help lock in the juices and ensure that the meatballs are cooked to perfection.

Finally, it's all about the toppings. A good meatball sub needs a tangy, slightly sweet marinara sauce, some melted mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of parmesan for good measure. You can also add some fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and color.

By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you can make grilled chicken meatball subs that are truly delicious and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just a few, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make grilled chicken meatball subs, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings. You'll also need some marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sub rolls for serving. Don't worry if you don't have all of these ingredients on hand - you can easily substitute or omit them as needed.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items that will add flavor and texture to your dish. For example, look for fresh, flavorful chicken and a good-quality marinara sauce. You can also use leftover chicken or turkey if you have it on hand.

1 lb (450g) ground chickenLook for fresh, flavorful chicken that is free of added hormones and antibiotics. You can also use leftover chicken or turkey if you have it on hand.
1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbsUse plain breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs for the best results. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
1/4 cup (30g) grated parmesan cheeseChoose a high-quality parmesan cheese that is freshly grated for the best flavor.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh parsley for the best flavor and texture. You can also use dried parsley if fresh is not available.
2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt if you prefer.
1 eggUse a large egg for the best results. You can also use an egg substitute if needed.
1/2 teaspoon saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use table salt if that's what you have on hand.
1/4 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use pre-ground pepper if that's what you have.
1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer.
1 cup (250ml) marinara sauceChoose a high-quality marinara sauce that is made with fresh ingredients and has no added preservatives. You can also make your own marinara sauce from scratch if you prefer.
4 sub rollsUse fresh, crusty sub rolls for the best results. You can also use other types of bread or rolls if you prefer.

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Meatball Subs

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlMeatball scoop or small ice cream scoopCutting boardKnifeGrill or grill panInstant-read thermometerSpatula

How to Make Grilled Chicken Meatball Subs

1
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat.
2
Use a meatball scoop or small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
3
Place the meatballs on a cutting board or tray, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.
4
Heat the olive oil in a large grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
5
While the meatballs are cooking, toast the sub rolls on the grill or in a toaster. This will help them hold up to the juicy meatballs and sauce.
6
Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and the meatballs stay tender.
7
To assemble the subs, place 4-5 meatballs on each sub roll, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
8
Place the subs under the broiler for a minute or two, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don't burn.
9
Remove the subs from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. You can serve them hot, garnished with extra parsley or parmesan cheese if desired.
10
To check the internal temperature of the meatballs, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure they have reached 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the meatball.
11
Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.

Expert Tips

Make sure to not overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the meatballs dense and tough.
Use a meatball scoop or small ice cream scoop to form the meatballs, as this will help them be uniform in size and cook evenly.
Don't overcrowd the grill or grill pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the meatballs from cooking evenly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help the juices redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor, and consider making your own from scratch if you have the time.
Consider using leftover chicken or turkey to make the meatballs, as this can be a great way to use up leftover meat and reduce food waste.
To monitor the broiler step and avoid burning, keep an eye on the subs and remove them from the oven when the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you don't have an instant-read thermometer, you can also check the internal temperature of the meatballs by cutting into one of them. If it's not cooked to 165 F (74 C), return it to the heat and continue cooking until it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the meat mixture, which can make the meatballs dense and tough.
Not cooking the meatballs to a safe internal temperature, which can cause foodborne illness.
Overcrowding the grill or grill pan, which can lower the temperature and prevent the meatballs from cooking evenly.
Not letting the meatballs rest before serving, which can cause them to be dry and tough.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as poor-quality meat or sauce, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not monitoring the broiler step, which can cause the subs to burn or become overcooked.

Variations and Substitutions

Using different types of meat, such as beef or pork, to make the meatballs.
Adding different seasonings or spices to the meat mixture, such as Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.
Using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, to top the subs.
Adding other toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers, to the subs.
Using different types of bread, such as ciabatta or baguette, to make the subs.
Making the subs in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a hands-off, easy meal.
Using leftover meatballs to make a meatball soup or stew.

What to Serve With Grilled Chicken Meatball Subs

Grilled chicken meatball subs are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be served on their own or with a variety of sides. Some ideas for sides include a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta salad. You can also serve the subs with a side of garlic knots or breadsticks for a fun and easy snack.

Consider serving the subs at a party or gathering, as they are easy to make in large quantities and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes. You can also make them ahead of time and reheat them as needed, making them a great option for a busy weeknight dinner or lunch.

Serve with a side of garlic knots or breadsticksOffer a green salad or roasted vegetables on the sidePair with a side of pasta salad or a simple green saladServe with a side of sautéed onions or bell peppersOffer a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone, for topping the subsConsider serving the subs at a party or gathering

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

If you have leftover meatballs, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven when you're ready to serve. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 2 months, and reheat them as needed.

To freeze the meatballs, simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer. Once they are frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When reheating the meatballs, make sure to heat them to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven, or even on the grill or in a grill pan.

Consider making a big batch of meatballs and freezing them for later, as this can be a great way to have a quick and easy meal on hand. Simply thaw the meatballs as needed and reheat them according to the instructions above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Simply reheat them when you're ready to serve.

Can I use different types of meat to make the meatballs?

Yes, you can use different types of meat to make the meatballs, such as beef or pork. Simply substitute the ground chicken with your preferred type of meat and proceed with the recipe.

How do I know if the meatballs are cooked to a safe internal temperature?

You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meatballs. They should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety.

Can I make the subs in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make the subs in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Simply cook the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker or Instant Pot, and then assemble the subs as desired.

How do I store leftover meatballs?

You can store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Simply reheat them when you're ready to serve.

Can I customize the subs with different toppings?

Yes, you can customize the subs with different toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers. Simply add your desired toppings to the subs and serve.

How do I reheat leftover meatballs?

You can reheat leftover meatballs in the microwave or oven, or even on the grill or in a grill pan. Simply heat them to an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C) to ensure food safety.

Can I make the meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the meatballs gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and being mindful of any other ingredients that may contain gluten.

How do I handle leftover sub rolls?

You can store leftover sub rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Simply toast or grill them when you're ready to serve.

The Full Recipe

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