Name: Italian-Style Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 large egg; 1 pound ground chicken (93% lean); ½ cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs; ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped; 2 ½ cups fresh spinach, lightly packed; Tomato sauce; Cooked whole wheat pasta, zucchini, or other vegetable noodles; Buns for sandwiches; Toothpicks to serve as an appetizer

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Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish for any occasion? Try these Italian-style chicken meatballs! Packed with flavor and simple to whip up, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: These meatballs are seasoned with a perfect blend of herbs and spices.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have these meatballs ready in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

Large egg: Binds the meatballs together.
Ground chicken: Lean ground chicken is recommended for a healthier option.
Whole wheat panko breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps bind the meatballs.
Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory and cheesy flavor.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for cooking the meatballs.
Dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, red pepper flakes: Seasonings for added flavor.
Tomato paste: Adds richness and depth to the meatballs.
Flat-leaf parsley: Fresh herb for a pop of color and flavor.
Fresh spinach: Adds moisture and nutrients to the meatballs.
For Serving: Tomato sauce, cooked whole wheat pasta, zucchini, buns, toothpicks.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, red pepper flakes, and half of the tomato paste.
Mix in parsley and spinach until well combined.
Shape mixture into meatballs and cook in a skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through.
Serve with tomato sauce over pasta, zucchini noodles, in a sandwich, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Helpful Tips:

For extra flavor, try adding some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the meatball mixture.
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of panko.
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use a mixture of white and dark ground chicken for a more flavorful meatball.
To prevent the meatballs from sticking to the pan, make sure it is well-heated before adding them.

Serving Suggestions:

These Italian-style chicken meatballs pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store, place the cooled meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute.
Can I freeze these meatballs? Yes, these meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of pan-frying? Yes, bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of panko? Yes, fresh breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture may vary slightly.

Conclusion:

Try these Italian-style chicken meatballs for a flavorful and easy meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy this delicious dish!