Chicken Florentine Meatballs: A Healthy and Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Introduction

If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful meatballs but want a lighter, healthier twist, then Chicken Florentine Meatballs are your new go-to recipe. These tender meatballs are packed with lean chicken, spinach, and a hint of creamy Parmesan, offering a healthier alternative to traditional meatball dishes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a delicious addition to a special dinner, these Chicken Florentine Meatballs are sure to impress.

Inspired by the classic Chicken Florentine—a dish typically featuring chicken and spinach in a creamy sauce—these meatballs are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to fit into a variety of meal plans. They’re perfect for those who want a bit of indulgence without compromising on health. Plus, they’re made with simple ingredients that come together quickly for a crowd-pleasing, nutrient-packed dinner.

In this recipe, the addition of fresh spinach brings a nutritious pop of color and flavor, while the Parmesan adds richness and a subtle umami taste. These meatballs are also perfect for meal prepping, whether you’re preparing for the week ahead or making extra for a dinner party. With their fresh, vibrant ingredients and savory taste, they’re a dish everyone will want to come back to time and time again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Lean

Made with lean ground chicken and fresh spinach, these meatballs are much lower in fat than traditional beef or pork meatballs. They’re an excellent source of protein and iron, and spinach provides a boost of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Bursting with Flavor

Each bite of these meatballs is a savory explosion of spinach, Parmesan, and garlic, giving them an irresistible flavor that stands out. The Italian seasoning brings the perfect blend of herbs to enhance the richness of the chicken and spinach filling.

Perfect for Any Meal

Whether you’re serving them over pasta, with a side of vegetables, or in a sandwich, these Chicken Florentine Meatballs can be adapted to any meal plan. They’re great for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make these meatballs! The process is simple and straightforward, with minimal prep time. They’re also forgiving, which means they can be customized to fit your taste or dietary needs.

Great for Meal Prep

These meatballs freeze wonderfully, making them an excellent option for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe to have a batch ready for busy nights or to have on hand for quick lunches throughout the week.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 45 minutes (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)
Servings: 4-6
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories: 280
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 8g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

To make these Chicken Florentine Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken: Lean protein that serves as the base for your meatballs.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: A great source of iron and vitamins, and it adds vibrant color and flavor to the meatballs.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and a touch of saltiness that complements the spinach and chicken.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together while keeping them moist.
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and tenderness to the meatballs.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that aromatic, savory kick.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the ingredients and hold the meatballs together.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that gives these meatballs a delicious Italian flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the meatballs.

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce for a rich, savory base.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle addition that enhances the flavor of the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little extra heat if you prefer your sauce with a kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: PREPARE THE MEATBALL MIXTURE

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, and egg. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Next, season the meatball mixture with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until well combined, but avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough.

STEP 2: FORM THE MEATBALLS

Using your hands or a spoon, form the chicken mixture into small meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make about 18-20 meatballs with this recipe, depending on the size you prefer.

STEP 3: COOK THE MEATBALLS

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the pan, being sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook the meatballs in batches.

Cook the meatballs for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned all over. This step helps to give them a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside tender.

STEP 4: SIMMER IN THE SAUCE

Once all the meatballs are browned, pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, covering the meatballs. You may need to add a little water or broth if the sauce doesn’t cover the meatballs completely. Add garlic powder and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce for added flavor.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer the meatballs in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

STEP 5: SERVE AND ENJOY

Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and serve them with the marinara sauce. These Chicken Florentine Meatballs pair wonderfully with:

• Pasta: Serve them over spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve them over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Rice: Serve with a side of brown rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• Garlic Bread: A perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Serve

These Chicken Florentine Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

Over Pasta: For a classic Italian meal, serve the meatballs over your favorite pasta with a sprinkle of fresh basil and grated Parmesan.

In a Sandwich: For a delicious twist on a sub sandwich, place the meatballs and sauce inside a toasted hoagie roll and top with melted mozzarella.

With Vegetables: For a healthy low-carb option, pair the meatballs with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or a simple salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich meatballs.

As an Appetizer: Serve the meatballs on their own with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They make an excellent appetizer for parties or gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: These meatballs are great for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time, store them in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the sauce.
2. Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Add red pepper flakes for some heat or fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an extra pop of flavor.
3. Use Lean Chicken: Be sure to use lean ground chicken to keep these meatballs healthier. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey as an alternative.
4. Avoid Overmixing: When combining the meatball mixture, avoid overworking the meat. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense and tough.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: To freeze, arrange the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for 1-2 hours to firm up. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave, oven, or simmer them in marinara sauce.

Conclusion

These Chicken Florentine Meatballs are the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent, with tender chicken, nutrient-packed spinach, and a rich, flavorful marinara sauce. Whether you’re serving them for a

weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, make ahead, and freeze beautifully, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

So go ahead and try these Chicken Florentine Meatballs—I’m sure they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household! Be sure to share your results, and I’d love to hear how they turn out. Enjoy!

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