Are you tired of the same old spaghetti and meatballs? Looking for a new twist on a classic recipe? Look no further! We have a mouthwatering solution for you – Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs.

This homemade pasta and meatballs dish takes the beloved Italian comfort food and adds a delicious twist. Instead of traditional beef or pork meatballs, this recipe features flavorful chicken meatballs made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. The result is a lighter and juicier alternative that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

But it doesn’t stop there. The spaghetti is cooked until al dente and tossed in a mouthwatering garlic herb sauce. Every bite is a burst of flavor and comfort, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something easy and satisfying. Your family will love this dish, and you’ll love how simple it is to make.

So, are you ready to take your spaghetti and meatballs game to the next level? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the secrets of these Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs.

Key Takeaways:

• Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs is a twist on the classic spaghetti and meatballs recipe.
• Chicken meatballs are made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs for a lighter and juicier alternative.
• The dish features a delicious garlic herb sauce that complements the meatballs and spaghetti perfectly.
• This recipe is a great option for an easy and satisfying weeknight dinner.
• Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs is a family-friendly and delicious dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients for Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

Gather the following ingredients to make the delicious spaghetti & parmesan chicken meatballs:

• Ground chicken: 1 pound
• Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Spaghetti: 8 ounces
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh spinach: 2 cups
• Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
• Water: 1/4 cup
• White wine: 1/4 cup

These ingredients are the perfect combination to create flavorful chicken meatballs and a delectable garlic herb pasta sauce.

To have a visual idea of what your dish will look like, take a look at the image above. It will surely make your mouth water!

Instructions for Making Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

To create this delicious dish of spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs, follow these simple instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a sauté pan, melt a stick of creamy melted Land O Lakes® Butter over medium heat.

6. Add 3 cloves of minced fresh garlic and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the melted butter. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.

7. Next, add 2 cups of fresh greens, such as spinach or kale, to the pan. Cook until the greens are wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

8. Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to the sauté pan with the sauce. Add cooked spaghetti and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well coated.

9. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or white wine to loosen it up.

10. Finish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh and tangy flavor.

Now, your spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs are ready to be served. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!

Tips for Perfect Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

Creating the perfect spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs requires attention to detail and a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure that your dish turns out delicious every time:

Baking the Meatballs

Our first tip is to bake the meatballs until they are golden brown and cooked through. This method ensures that the meatballs have a crispy exterior while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Sautéing the Sauce

When sautéing the sauce, take care not to brown the garlic. This helps to retain its delicate flavor and prevent any bitter taste. Start with melted butter in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook it gently until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. This process typically takes about 1-2 minutes. As an alternative option, you can use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter sauce.

Enhancing the Sauce

To enhance the flavor of the sauce and encourage it to stick to the pasta and meatballs, add a small amount of water or white wine at the end of the sautéing process. This helps to loosen the sauce and makes it more cohesive. Stir in 1/4 cup of water or white wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes before adding the cooked spaghetti and meatballs.

Finishing Touches

A squeeze of lemon adds a burst of freshness to the dish. Just before serving, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the spaghetti and meatballs. The acidity of the lemon helps to balance the flavors and brighten the overall taste. Finally, garnish the dish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The sharp and nutty flavor of Parmesan complements the chicken meatballs and adds a touch of decadence to every bite.

With these tips, you’ll be able to create perfect spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs that are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these meatballs are sure to impress. Enjoy!

Variations and Substitutions for Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

Our spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

1. Ground Turkey: Instead of ground chicken, you can use lean ground turkey for a lighter option.
2. Ground Pork: For a richer flavor, substitute ground pork in place of ground chicken.
3. Ground Beef: If you prefer a classic meatball taste, use ground beef instead of chicken.

These meatball variations offer different textures and flavors, allowing you to create a dish that suits your preferences.

For an alternative sauce option, consider serving the spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs with homemade pasta sauce. This can be a traditional marinara sauce or any other pasta sauce of your choice. The sauce will add a delicious, tangy flavor to the dish. Alternatively, you can serve the meatballs with a side of ketchup for a hint of sweetness and tanginess.

Meatball Variations

Experimenting with different ingredients and flavors can add excitement and variety to your meals. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out these variations and substitutions for your spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs recipe! Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

Spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want a complete meal or prefer to pair it with complementary sides, there are several serving suggestions to suit your taste. Here are two popular options:

Serving Option 1: Spaghetti and Meatballs

Enjoy the classic combination of spaghetti and meatballs by serving the spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs as a complete meal on its own. Simply plate a generous portion of spaghetti topped with the juicy chicken meatballs. Sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This serving option is ideal for those who crave a comforting and satisfying Italian-style dinner.

Serving Option 2: With Garlic Bread and Green Salad

Elevate your meal by pairing the spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs with a side of garlic bread and a refreshing green salad. The garlic bread adds a delicious crunch and garlicky flavor that complements the meatballs and pasta. Prepare the garlic bread by slicing a baguette, spreading butter and minced garlic on each slice, and toasting it in the oven until golden brown. For the green salad, toss together a mix of fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and your favorite dressing. This combination provides a balanced and well-rounded meal, complete with carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables.

You can choose your preferred serving option based on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs are versatile enough to be enjoyed in different ways, allowing you to customize your meal to suit your taste buds.

Storage and Reheating for Spaghetti & Parmesan Chicken Meatballs

Leftover spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs can be easily stored and reheated for future meals. Here are some guidelines for proper storage and reheating:

Refrigeration:

• Place any leftover spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate the dish promptly to prevent bacterial growth.
• The meatballs and pasta can be refrigerated together or separately, depending on your preference.
• Stored properly, the leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating:

To enjoy your leftover spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs again, follow these reheating instructions:

Microwave:

1. Transfer the desired amount of leftovers to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover the dish to prevent splattering.
3. Microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs and pasta are heated through.
4. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the dish to become dry.

Stovetop:

1. Place a skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the leftover spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs to the pan.
3. Stir occasionally until the meatballs and pasta are heated through.
4. Add a splash of water or olive oil if needed to prevent sticking or drying out.

Freezing:

If you find yourself with extra meatballs that you’d like to save for later, freezing is a convenient option:

• Place the meatballs in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label the bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
• The meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing and Cooking:

When you’re ready to use the frozen meatballs, follow these steps:

• Thaw the meatballs in the refrigerator overnight.
• To cook, you can either reheat the meatballs by dropping them directly into a pot of hot pasta sauce or cook them separately following the original recipe instructions.
• Ensure the meatballs are cooked through and piping hot before serving.

Now that you know how to properly store and reheat your spaghetti and parmesan chicken meatballs, you can enjoy this delicious dish even on the busiest of days. Whether it’s refrigerating leftovers for a quick meal or freezing extra meatballs for future use, these storage and reheating tips will ensure that each bite remains flavorful and satisfying.

Conclusion

Spaghetti and Parmesan Chicken Meatballs is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that captures the essence of Italian comfort food in a unique way. This family-friendly recipe combines the classic flavors of spaghetti and meatballs with a twist, using flavorful and juicy chicken meatballs and a garlic herb pasta sauce that adds a burst of freshness.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal or want to impress your loved ones with a delightful homemade dish, this recipe is a perfect choice. The combination of tender chicken meatballs, al dente spaghetti, and the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese will surely satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize according to your personal tastes and preferences.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and comforting Italian-inspired meal, give Spaghetti and Parmesan Chicken Meatballs a try. The delightful blend of flavors, the ease of preparation, and the family-friendly nature of this recipe make it an ideal option for any occasion. Enjoy the culinary journey and savor every bite of this delightful and comforting dish!