Chicken meatballs

Chicken meatballs - a delicacy that combines savory flavor with ease of preparation

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of delicious chicken meatballs! These little wonders are not only tasty but also very versatile, perfect for serving in various ways. Whether you're making them for a quick family dinner or a festive meal, chicken meatballs are always an excellent choice. Below, I will provide you with all the necessary details to achieve a perfect result.

A brief history of meatballs
Meatballs have been prepared over time in various forms across many cultures. They are typically balls of meat that can be fried, baked, or boiled, and are appreciated for their soft texture and rich flavors. In many traditional recipes, chicken is a popular choice due to its juiciness and ease of cooking.

Necessary ingredients
- 800 g chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Oregano, 1-2 tablespoons
- Sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon
- Oil for frying

Ingredient details
- Chicken breast: Choose fresh, boneless, and skinless meat for juicy meatballs. You can use a food processor to chop the meat to a fine consistency.
- Garlic: This adds a distinctive flavor to your meatballs. You can also use crushed fresh garlic for an extra kick.
- Eggs: They act as a binder, helping to maintain the shape of the meatballs during frying.
- Spices: Oregano and sweet paprika are essential for providing a rich flavor. You can experiment with other spices, such as cumin or parsley, to customize the recipe.

Step by step: preparation method
1. Preparing the meat: Start by chopping the chicken breast in a food processor until you achieve a fine mixture. Make sure there are no large pieces for a uniform texture.
2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the minced meat, crushed garlic, eggs, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Use your hands to mix the ingredients well. It’s important not to overmix, as the meatballs can become tough.
3. Shaping the meatballs: With wet hands, form small meatballs the size of a golf ball. Place them on a platter.
4. Preparing the oil: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Check if it's hot enough by placing a small piece of the meat mixture in the oil; if it sizzles, it's ready.
5. Frying the meatballs: Place the meatballs in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
6. Draining excess oil: Once cooked, remove the meatballs and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Serving and variations
Chicken meatballs can be served in a variety of ways. A delicious suggestion is to pair them with a fresh tomato basil sauce, which perfectly complements the flavors. They also pair excellently with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh salad full of crunchy vegetables.

For those who want to experiment, here are a few variations:
- Cheese meatballs: Add feta or mozzarella cheese to the meat mixture for a delicious filling.
- Spicy meatballs: Add 1-2 finely chopped chili peppers to the mixture for an extra kick and flavor.
- Baked meatballs: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and offers a similar taste.
- How can I store the meatballs? They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or skillet.
- How many calories are in a chicken meatball? A chicken meatball has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the added ingredients.

Chicken meatballs are not only an easy dish to make but also an excellent way to bring family or friends together at the table. By preparing them with love and adding your favorite ingredients, you will create not just a tasty dish but also a memorable experience. So put on your apron and let’s enjoy these delicious meatballs!