Chicken breast meatballs, marinated

Marinated Chicken Breast Meatballs - a delicious and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. These meatballs are juicy and full of flavor, and the tomato sauce adds a touch of freshness and a sophisticated taste. Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the meatballs:
- 500 g chicken breast (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 150 g ham (choose a quality ham for better flavor)
- 1 raw potato (about 150 g, helps maintain juiciness)
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
- 1 small onion (75-100 g, finely chopped)
- 5-6 cloves of garlic (crushed, or to taste)
- Salt, pepper, and oregano (to taste)
- 70-80 g cheese (for filling)
- A little flour (to give a crispy crust)
- 5-6 tablespoons of oil (for baking)

For the tomato sauce:
- 5-6 ripe tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes, depending on the season)
- Salt, pepper, and oregano (to taste)
- About 300-500 ml water (to dilute the sauce)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. Wash the chicken breast and potato well. Cut the ham into small cubes and finely chop the onion and garlic. These details will contribute to an even texture of the meatballs.

2. Grinding: Use a food processor to grind together the chicken breast, ham, and potato. This combination will make the meatballs both juicy and less dense. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a sharp knife, but make sure everything is cut evenly.

3. Mixing the composition: Transfer the ground mixture to a large bowl. Add the onion, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well with a spatula or your hands until all ingredients are fully integrated. Taste the mixture to adjust the seasonings if necessary. This is the perfect time to add some favorite spices, such as paprika or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

4. Forming the meatballs: Take a small portion of the meat mixture and form round meatballs, slightly larger than golf balls. In the center of each meatball, place a cube of cheese. This will melt and create a delicious and creamy center.

5. Dredging in flour: Once you have formed all the meatballs, dredge them in flour. This step will help achieve a crispy crust during baking.

6. Baking the meatballs: In a baking tray, add 5-6 tablespoons of oil and arrange the meatballs. Place the tray in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes. It is important to turn them occasionally for even browning.

7. Preparing the tomato sauce: While the meatballs are in the oven, prepare the tomato sauce. Chop the tomatoes and place them in a pot. Add water, salt, pepper, and oregano. If the tomatoes are not red enough, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the color and flavor. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

8. Finishing the meatballs: Once the meatballs are browned, transfer them to another tray and pour the hot tomato sauce over them. Put them back in the oven for another 20 minutes to blend the flavors.

9. Serving: Once the meatballs are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, alongside a side of rice or mashed potatoes. You can also add a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Practical tips

- Variations: You can add finely chopped vegetables to the meat mixture, such as carrots or zucchini, to make them more nutritious. Also, substitute the cheese with feta or mozzarella for a delicious surprise.

- Storing the meatballs: If you have leftover meatballs, you can keep them in the fridge for a few days. Reheat them before serving, either in the oven or in a pan.

- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use ground meat of another type? Yes, you can use turkey or even pork, depending on your preferences.
- What sides go well? Plain rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes are excellent choices. You can also opt for a fresh green salad to add a crunchy contrast.
- Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes, you can freeze the raw or cooked meatballs, making sure to place them in an airtight container.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken breast meatballs are a healthy choice, low in saturated fats and high in protein. Adding vegetables and fresh herbs not only enhances flavor but also brings extra vitamins and minerals. Served with an appropriate side, they can constitute a balanced and nutritious meal.

In conclusion, marinated chicken breast meatballs are not only delicious but also an excellent way to bring flavors home. They are sure to become a family favorite! Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and experiment with ingredients you have on hand. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For the meatballs: - 500 g chicken breast - 150 g ham - 1 potato (about 150 g) raw - 3 tablespoons chopped parsley - 1 egg - 1 onion (75-100 g), finely chopped - 5-6 cloves of garlic, crushed (or to taste) - salt, pepper, oregano (to taste) - cheese (about 70-80 g) - a little flour - oil (about 5-6 tablespoons) For the tomato sauce: - about 5-6 tomatoes - salt, pepper, oregano (to taste)