Chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce

Name: Chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce
Ingredients: Meatballs: 400 g chicken meat; 1 egg; 1 medium onion; 3 tablespoons rice; salt; pepper. Sauce: 50 g butter; 2 tablespoons oil; 4 tablespoons grated flour; 350-400 ml milk; lemon pepper; salt; parsley.

Meat - Chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce by Tudosia G. - Recipia

Chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce: a delicious and comforting recipe Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total time: 50 minutes Servings: 4 When it comes to comfort food, meatball recipes are always a hit! These chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce are a perfect choice for a family meal, offering a blend of flavors and textures that perfectly combine succulent meat with the creaminess of the sauce. Plus, the béchamel sauce, with its ancient origins in European kitchens, adds a sophisticated yet easy-to-make touch. Let's get started! Ingredients needed For the meatballs: - 400 g chicken meat (preferably breast, but you can also use boneless thighs for a richer flavor) - 1 large egg - 1 medium onion (preferably white or yellow) - 3 tablespoons of rice (you can use long-grain rice for better texture) - Salt and pepper, to taste For the béchamel sauce: - 50 g butter - 2 tablespoons of oil (olive oil adds a pleasant flavor) - 4 heaping tablespoons of flour - 350-400 ml milk (whole milk will give a creamier sauce) - Lemon pepper (or regular pepper, if you prefer) - Salt, to taste - Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish Step by step: Preparing the meatballs 1. Preparing the meat: Start by chopping the chicken meat. You can use a food processor for a fine consistency, or chop it manually if you prefer a more rustic texture. Make sure the chicken is well minced. 2. Preparing the onion: The onion can be finely chopped with a knife or pureed in a processor. Adding onion to the meatball mixture will enhance the flavor. 3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken, onion, egg, and rinsed rice. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well with wet hands until all ingredients are well combined. 4. Shaping the meatballs: With wet hands, shape the meatballs to your desired size. They will expand slightly during cooking due to the rice. 5. Boiling the meatballs: In a large pot, add water and a bit of bouillon or salt. Bring to a boil. When the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the meatballs. Boil them until the rice is cooked (about 15-20 minutes). Remove the meatballs to a plate and let them cool slightly. Step by step: Preparing the béchamel sauce 1. Melting the butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter together with the oil over medium heat. Stir well to achieve a homogeneous mixture. 2. Adding the flour: Once the butter is completely melted, add the flour. Stir quickly to avoid lumps. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden. 3. Adding the milk: Begin pouring in the cold milk, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce starts to thicken. 4. Seasoning the sauce: Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, add salt and lemon pepper to taste. If you had trouble with lumps, feel free to strain the sauce through a sieve. 5. Combining the meatballs with the sauce: Add the cooked meatballs to the béchamel sauce and gently mix to coat them evenly. Let them simmer together for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serving Serve the chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce on a nice platter, sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or pasta, but also with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the sauce. Helpful tips - Ingredient variations: You can experiment with various herbs and spices, such as dill or cumin, to give your dish a personal touch. - For a richer sauce: Replace part of the milk with cream. This will give the sauce a creamier texture and taste. - Storing the meatballs: If you have leftover meatballs, they can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the béchamel sauce. Nutritional information This chicken meatball recipe in béchamel sauce offers a good balance between protein and carbohydrates, making it a nourishing option for all family members. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, but this number may vary depending on the proportions of the ingredients used. Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey meat is a healthy and delicious alternative. 2. How can I make the béchamel sauce easier? If you're short on time, you can use a pre-made white sauce from the store. 3. What other sides go well with meatballs? Besides mashed potatoes, you can try rice or pasta, as well as grilled vegetables. Conclusion These chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce are an excellent way to impress family and friends. With a bit of patience and a willingness to experiment, you'll create a dish worthy of the finest meals. So, don't wait any longer! Get into the kitchen and enjoy the magic of cooking!

Chicken meatballs in béchamel sauce

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