Chicken meatballs with vegetables

Chicken meatballs with vegetables – a delicious and healthy recipe

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

Welcome to my kitchen! Today we will prepare chicken meatballs with vegetables together, a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for lunch or dinner. These meatballs are not only delicious but also very healthy, thanks to the fresh vegetables we will use. Additionally, they are extremely versatile and can be served with various sauces or side dishes. Let's begin our culinary journey!

A brief history

Meatballs have deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, being an ingenious way to use meat and vegetables in various ways. This chicken meatball recipe with vegetables is a modern variant that combines proteins with micronutrients from vegetables, creating a balanced and tasty meal.

Necessary ingredients

To prepare these delicious meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

- 500 g ground chicken thigh – choose quality meat, preferably from a butcher, for an authentic taste
- 1 medium onion, diced – onion adds extra flavor and moisture
- 1 carrot, grated – the carrot will add sweetness and a pleasant texture
- 1 small zucchini, grated – zucchini is a versatile vegetable that pairs perfectly with meat
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – this will help bind the mixture
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped – parsley will add freshness
- Salt, to taste – remember, salt enhances flavors
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – olive oil is a healthy choice for cooking
- 1 cup flour – for coating the meatballs before frying
- 1 egg – this will help bind the ingredients

Step by step: preparing the meatballs

1. Preparing the vegetables: Wash the vegetables thoroughly under running water. Peel the carrot and zucchini, then grate them. The diced onion will add a subtle flavor to the meatballs. The finely chopped parsley will provide an extra freshness.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the grated and diced vegetables, then sprinkle with salt and a little olive oil. Mix well to combine the flavors. This step will help the vegetables release their juices and become more flavorful.

3. Adding the meat: Once the vegetables are well mixed, add the ground chicken. Use a spatula or your hands to combine all the ingredients, ensuring no lumps remain.

4. Finalizing the mixture: Add the egg and breadcrumbs, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes homogeneous. You can adjust the amount of breadcrumbs according to the desired texture; more breadcrumbs will make the meatballs denser.

5. Forming the meatballs: Rub a little oil on your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. Form balls the size of a golf ball, then roll each ball in flour. Press gently to give them a flat shape, which will help with even frying.

6. Frying the meatballs: In a large skillet, add olive oil and let it heat up. Place the meatballs in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them for 4-5 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy.

7. Draining excess oil: After frying, remove the meatballs onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Serving and suggestions

Chicken meatballs with vegetables are delicious served hot, alongside a homemade garlic yogurt sauce. Here’s how to make a simple sauce:

- 4-5 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 200 ml Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl and serve the sauce alongside the meatballs. This creamy sauce will perfectly complement the flavors of the vegetables and chicken.

Variations and combinations

If you want to add more flavor, you can experiment with various spices such as sweet paprika, oregano, or even a little cumin. You can also replace the chicken with turkey or even a vegetarian option, using tofu or chopped mushrooms.

The meatballs can be served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad. They are also excellent in sandwiches or wraps, providing a delicious and healthy lunch.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

2. How can I store the meatballs?
The meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or oven.

3. Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs raw or cooked. Make sure to place them in a sealed container to prevent freezer burn.

Nutritional benefits

These chicken meatballs with vegetables are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The vegetables add fiber, which aids digestion, while chicken is a lean option, rich in protein. This meal is ideal for a balanced diet, being low in calories and rich in nutrients.

So, enjoy preparing these chicken meatballs with vegetables! Whether you serve them for a family meal or a dinner with friends, they will surely impress with their flavor and appearance. Enjoy your meal!