Description

Chicken Florentine Meatballs are a light and flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, combining lean ground chicken with spinach, garlic, and a blend of Italian seasonings. These tender meatballs are baked to perfection and then simmered in a creamy, velvety Parmesan sauce, infusing them with rich, savory flavor. The spinach adds a fresh, earthy taste, while the creamy sauce enhances the dish with a luscious, comforting texture. These meatballs are perfect for serving over pasta, in a sub, or on their own with a side of vegetables, making them a versatile and delicious meal.

Ingredients

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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.

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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.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 280 kcal
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 30g