Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Meatballs and Spaghetti recipe is a fantastic way to elevate a classic comfort food, making it lighter and bursting with flavor. It's perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal that won't leave you feeling sluggish. This recipe offers a healthy twist on a traditional favorite, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Spaghetti:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Making the Chicken Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through.
Making the Spaghetti Sauce:
- While the meatballs are cooking, cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Combining Everything:
- Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the tomato sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the meatballs and sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Serving:
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Meatballs and Spaghetti:
- Don't overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing develops gluten in the breadcrumbs, leading to tough meatballs.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and good quality ground chicken will make a noticeable difference in the flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: When browning the meatballs, make sure there's enough space between them to allow for even cooking. Work in batches if necessary.
- Simmer the sauce gently: A low simmer allows the flavors to develop fully and prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meatballs or the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatballs or sauce for a touch of heat.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta cheese to the sauce at the end for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This delicious and easy chicken meatballs and spaghetti recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a family gathering. Enjoy!