Description
Creamy Spinach Chicken Meatballs
These tender chicken meatballs are smothered in a rich, creamy spinach sauce. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is perfect for a comforting yet wholesome meal!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Spinach Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Spinach Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
Combine and Serve:
Return the meatballs to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy spinach chicken meatballs over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with freshly cracked black pepper or parsley.
Enjoy!
This dish is comforting, creamy, and packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Mix the meatball ingredients gently in a bowl; overmixing can make the meatballs tough. 2. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the mixture for evenly sized meatballs. 3. When browning, ensure the skillet is hot before adding oil to get a good sear. Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. 4. For the sauce, let the cream and broth simmer gently to reduce and thicken before adding the cheese. 5. Stir the Parmesan in gradually to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These meatballs are incredibly versatile. For a classic comfort meal, serve them over a bed of fettuccine or pappardelle pasta. They are also excellent with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. A simple side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad balances the richness perfectly.
How-to Summary
Combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings to form meatballs. Pan-fry until golden and cooked through. In the same pan, create a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, then adding cream, broth, and Parmesan. Wilt spinach into the sauce. Return meatballs to the skillet, coat in sauce, and simmer briefly. Serve hot over your chosen base.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes, ground turkey is an excellent and flavorful substitute. Use the same weight and follow the recipe exactly.
How can I make this dish dairy-free? For the sauce, use olive oil instead of butter, a full-fat coconut milk for heavy cream, and a nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternative.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying? Absolutely. Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until cooked through, then add to the sauce.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I use frozen spinach? Yes. Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess liquid before adding it to the sauce to prevent it from becoming watery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meatball ingredients, which results in dense, tough meatballs.
- Adding cold cheese directly to a very hot sauce, which can cause it to clump instead of melt smoothly.
- Not letting the meatballs develop a proper sear in the pan before turning them; this adds crucial flavor.
- Overcrowding the skillet when browning, which steams the meatballs instead of browning them.
- Adding the spinach too early and overcooking it, causing it to lose its vibrant color and texture.
Conclusion
This Creamy Spinach Chicken Meatballs recipe is a standout dish that masterfully combines lean protein with a luxurious, vegetable-packed sauce. It’s a practical recipe for a weeknight yet elegant enough for guests. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a reliably delicious and comforting meal that is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.