Go Back
Zesty Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Polenta

Zesty Chicken Meatballs

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken breast
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil separated
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
  • 5 tablespoons breadcrumbs panko, wheat, or seasoned
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • additional parmesan cheese for serving optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425*F and lightly grease a roasting pan, set aside.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
  4. Saute 5-7 minutes until softened.
  5. In a medium size mixing bowl, add the cooked onions and garlic, ground chicken, spices, parsley, breadcrumbs, ketchup, lemon zest, cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
  6. Using your hands, thoroughly combine the meatball mixture.
  7. Weigh out 2-ounce portions of meat and roll into balls (making 10-12 balls).
  8. Once complete, add the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet placed over medium-high heat.
  9. Place the meatballs in the pan and sear on both sides, 2-3 minutes per side.
  10. Transfer the seared meatballs to the prepared roasting pan.
  11. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reach 165*F
  12. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
  13. To plate the Zesty Meatballs with Polenta and Sautéed Mixed Greens, spoon polenta into the bottom of a bowl, place 3 meatballs on top with a 1/2 cup of marinara sauce and additional cheese if using. Add sauteed mixed greens to the side and serve immediately.