Certainly! Let’s dive into the delightful world of Chicken and Basil Meatballs! 🍗🌿 This recipe is not only quick and easy but also packs a flavorful punch that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. 😋 I’ve got all the juicy details you need to create this dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Chicken and Basil Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 500g ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 1/4 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons toasted almonds, chopped (or try toasted pine nuts for a twist!)
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (about 500g) pasta sauce of your choice
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, finely chopped basil, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. 🥣 |
| 2 | Divide the chicken mixture into 12 portions and roll each portion into a ball, forming your delicious meatballs. 🍽️ |
| 3 | Heat the olive oil and butter in a large frypan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken meatballs and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, ensuring they are cooked through, about 8 minutes. 🔥 |
| 4 | While the meatballs are cooking, it’s time to whip up that luscious sauce! In a separate saucepan, combine the pasta sauce and white wine. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. 🍷 |
| 5 | After the sauce has reduced, stir in the cream to create a rich and velvety finish. 😍 |
| 6 | Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is ready, it’s time to plate up! 🍽️ |
| 7 | Divide the sauce among 4 plates, creating a generous bed of sauce for each serving. 🍝 |
| 8 | Place the chicken meatballs on top of the sauce on each plate, nestling them in cozily. 🥰 |
| 9 | Sprinkle the toasted almonds (or pine nuts) over the meatballs for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. 🌰 |
| 10 | Garnish with torn basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra burst of flavor. 🧀 |
| 11 | Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness! 🎉 |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 413.9
- Total Fat: 25.7g
- Saturated Fat: 9.1g
- Cholesterol: 178.2mg
- Sodium: 452.3mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 16.9g
- Dietary Fiber: 2.5g
- Sugar: 6.6g
- Protein: 26.5g
Recipe Notes:
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Substitution Ideas:
- You can swap the toasted almonds for pine nuts, as mentioned in the description. It adds a lovely nutty flavor to the dish.
- Instead of ground chicken, you can use ground turkey or even a mixture of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
- If you’re not a fan of white wine, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a tasty alternative.
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Make-Ahead Tip:
- These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply cook them when you’re ready to enjoy!
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Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Chicken and Basil Meatballs over a bed of cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, for a comforting meal.
- Pair with a side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the meatballs.
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Freezing Instructions:
- These meatballs freeze exceptionally well! Once cooked, allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Cooking Tips:
- To ensure perfectly cooked meatballs, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- When rolling the meatballs, slightly wetting your hands with water will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Don’t rush the browning process! Allowing the meatballs to develop a golden crust adds layers of flavor to the dish.
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Flavor Enhancements:
- For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Freshly grated nutmeg or a hint of garlic powder can elevate the flavors of the meatballs.
This Chicken and Basil Meatballs recipe is a true winner, combining the simplicity of a quick weeknight meal with the vibrant flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress! 🌟 So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delicious culinary adventure in the comfort of your own kitchen! Bon appétit! 🍴✨
