Introduction
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Sauce! This recipe, created by Laura Vitale, is a perfect dish for any occasion. These chicken meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and packed with a combination of herbs and spices that will leave you craving for more. The creamy parmesan sauce adds a rich and indulgent touch to the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Whether you are serving it as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a party snack, these chicken meatballs with creamy parmesan sauce are sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the chicken meatballs:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup bread crumbs
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
For the creamy parmesan sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped basil, chopped oregano, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You can use a cookie scoop or your hands to do this.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn the meatballs occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the creamy parmesan sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish and pour the creamy parmesan sauce over them. Garnish with additional chopped herbs if desired.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the chicken mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
– Replace the bread crumbs with almond meal or gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version of the recipe.
– If you prefer a spicier sauce, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy parmesan sauce.
– Experiment with different herbs and spices in the chicken meatballs. Try adding some thyme, rosemary, or sage for a different flavor profile.
Tips
– To make the meatballs easier to shape, wet your hands with water before rolling the mixture into balls. This will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
– If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. Just remember to use about half the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh.
– If you want to make the meatballs ahead of time, you can freeze them after shaping. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be cooked directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
– If you have any leftover meatballs and sauce, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
Chicken meatballs with creamy parmesan sauce are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a party snack, they are sure to be a hit. The combination of juicy chicken meatballs and rich parmesan sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor experience that will leave you wanting more. So, give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with these tasty chicken meatballs!
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
A: Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for the ground chicken in this recipe. The meatballs will still be delicious and flavorful.
Q: Can I make the meatballs in advance and freeze them?
A: Yes, you can shape the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. This is a great option for meal prepping or for making ahead for parties or gatherings.
Q: Can I use store-bought parmesan sauce instead of making it from scratch?
A: While store-bought parmesan sauce can be convenient, making it from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. It’s worth the extra effort!
Q: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Just make sure to lightly grease the baking sheet before placing the meatballs on it.
