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Chicken Pesto Meatballs Recipe

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These Chicken Pesto Meatballs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring ground chicken mixed with basil pesto, parmesan, and fragrant shallots. Baked until golden and juicy, they make a perfect protein-packed addition to pasta dishes or a healthy side of vegetables, ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup basil pesto (fresh or store-bought)
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Pure avocado oil spray, for lightly coating

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat and set it aside to prepare for baking the meatballs.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced shallot, panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, basil pesto, egg, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula or your hands to thoroughly mix all ingredients until well incorporated.
  3. Form Meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into balls approximately 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place these evenly spaced onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the meatballs with avocado oil to help them brown and stay moist during baking.
  4. Bake Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken pesto meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
  5. Serve: Remove the meatballs from the oven and serve immediately alongside your favorite pasta dish or steamed vegetables for a nutritious and delightful meal.

Notes

  • Ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • You can substitute basil pesto with sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor twist.
  • Use fresh pesto for a brighter taste, or store-bought for convenience.
  • To make these gluten-free, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • For added moisture, you can mix in a tablespoon of olive oil or grated zucchini.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/chicken-pesto-meatballs-recipe/