Chicken Meatballs Recipe (Polpette di Pollo)
If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying dish to start off your meal, these Chicken Meatballs, also known as Polpette di Pollo, are the perfect appetizer. They are tender, flavorful, and oozing with gooey mozzarella cheese, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these bite-sized delights are sure to steal the show. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this easy and mouth-watering dish!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken (shredded) | 160g |
| Mozzarella Cheese (diced) | 30g |
| Bread Crumbs (Pangrattato) | 20g |
| Parmesan Reggiano DOP (grated) | 20g |
| Egg | 2 (1 for mixing, 1 for coating) |
| Oregano (dried) | To taste |
| Salt (fine) | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Oil for frying (Vegetable Oil) | As needed |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (per meatball) |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 85-100 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fats | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken
Start by shredding the cooked chicken, separating the bones from the meat, and removing the skin. This will ensure a lean and tender texture for the meatballs. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts, this will make the process even faster. -
Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan Reggiano DOP, and oregano. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Crack one egg into the bowl and mix all the ingredients together thoroughly using your hands. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together when shaped but not too wet. -
Add the Mozzarella
Take small pieces of mozzarella cheese and place them in the center of each meatball mixture. Form the meatballs by rolling the mixture between your palms, ensuring that the cheese is hidden inside. This step gives each meatball a delightful surprise as the mozzarella melts during cooking. -
Coat the Meatballs
Beat the second egg in a shallow bowl and place the bread crumbs in another. Dip each meatball first into the beaten egg, making sure it’s well-coated, and then roll it in the bread crumbs. The bread crumbs will create a golden, crispy crust once fried. -
Fry the Meatballs
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking, around 170°C (340°F). Carefully add the meatballs to the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 2 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. -
Drain the Excess Oil
Once the meatballs are fried, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This ensures that they stay light and crispy, without being greasy. -
Serve and Enjoy
Season the meatballs with a little extra salt if desired, and serve them hot as an appetizer or snack. You can pair them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or enjoy them as they are. These meatballs are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Tips and Variations
- Make it Spicy: For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano on hand, feel free to substitute it for the dried oregano for a more vibrant, aromatic flavor.
- Oven-Baked Option: If you prefer a lighter option, you can bake these meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown.
- Cheese Variations: You can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor inside your meatballs.
These Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic choice for a family-friendly appetizer or a fun snack to serve at your next gathering. They’re easy to make, versatile, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as part of a larger meal or as the star of the show, these little bites of chicken goodness are sure to please any crowd! Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Meatballs
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of prep time, these meatballs come together quickly and effortlessly.
- Cheesy Delight: The mozzarella center adds a deliciously creamy and melty surprise in every bite.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings, cheese, or even try baking them instead of frying for a healthier twist.
Perfect for any occasion, these Chicken Meatballs will soon become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
