Chicken Pesto Meatballs

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Welcome to the delicious world of Chicken Pesto Meatballs! This recipe is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.

With the fresh taste of basil and juicy ground chicken, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve with pasta, on a sub, or simply on their own.

Let’s dive into how to make these tasty little bites!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Chicken Pesto Meatballs are a fantastic twist on traditional meatballs.

They are not only delicious but also a healthier option thanks to the use of ground chicken.

The star of the show is the basil pesto, which adds a burst of flavor that makes these meatballs stand out.

Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, these meatballs will impress everyone.

They are so easy to whip up, and once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them time and time again!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) ground chicken
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour
• ¼ cup (60 ml) basil pesto
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

These simple ingredients come together to create tender and flavorful meatballs that are bound to please a crowd.

How To Make Chicken Pesto Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Preparing the oven early ensures that your meatballs will cook evenly and beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs or almond flour, basil pesto, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.

Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs.

Each meatball should be about the size of a golf ball.

This size is perfect for cooking evenly and is great for serving.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

Drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs.

This will help them brown nicely.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a nice golden color on the outside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the meatballs are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes.

Serve them with pasta, in a sub with marinara sauce, or on their own with a sprinkle of fresh basil and parmesan cheese on top if you like.

Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Expert Tips

• Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor. You can make your own or buy a high-quality jar from the store.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
• Make sure the meatballs are not touching each other on the baking sheet to ensure they brown nicely.
• For added moisture, you can incorporate a tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese into the mixture.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer a different protein.
• Mix in chopped vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Try different pesto flavors, such as sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto, to change things up.
• For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs on zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover Chicken Pesto Meatballs, storing them is easy! Let the meatballs cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container.

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Place the cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply bake them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a convenient option and works perfectly in this recipe.

Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

What can I serve with Chicken Pesto Meatballs?

These meatballs are versatile and can be served with spaghetti, in a meatball sub, or with a fresh salad.

You can also enjoy them on their own as a delicious appetizer.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

You can also bake them and store the leftovers for meal prep during the week.

Are Chicken Pesto Meatballs gluten-free?

If you use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, these meatballs can be gluten-free.

Always check your specific ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

Chicken Pesto Meatballs are an incredibly satisfying dish that combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto.

Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun meal to share with friends, this recipe hits the mark.

With easy preparation and fantastic variations, you can customize it to fit your tastes and dietary needs.

Try making these meatballs today, and watch them disappear from your table! Enjoy every bite!

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