Chicken Pesto Meatballs Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
295 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Italian
Chicken Pesto Meatballs Recipe
Description
This recipe mixes ground chicken with minced shallot, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, basil pesto, a beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. The ingredients are combined thoroughly then shaped into uniform 1½ inch meatballs. These are arranged on a prepared baking sheet, lightly sprayed with oil, and baked in a preheated 400°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outsides are golden brown.
The basil pesto imparts an herbal, slightly nutty flavor which complements the mild chicken and Parmesan. The panko breadcrumbs provide structure and lightness, helping the meatballs hold together without being dense. Baking rather than frying yields a clean, evenly cooked texture with a delicate crisp exterior.
Serve these meatballs with a favorite pasta dish or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Their moderate seasoning and moist texture make them adaptable to various side dishes and sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 shallot minced
- 1/2 c panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 c Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1/4 c basil pesto fresh or store-bought
- 1 egg
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, set aside.
- In medium mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, shallot, breadcrumbs, parmesan, pesto, egg, salt and pepper. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until combined.
- Roll mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place onto prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with oil (I prefer using pure avocado oil).
- Place into oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Remove from the oven and serve with your favorite pasta dish or steamed veggies.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 295 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 295kcal | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 2% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 145mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 498mg | 21% |
| Potassium | 621mg | 13% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 425IU | 9% |
| Calcium | 121mg | 12% |
| Iron | 1.6mg | 9% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.