Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional for serving: Cooked rice, steamed broccoli, or zucchini noodles
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, half of the minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Step 2: Shape the Meatballs Scoop about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time and roll them between your palms to form small, even meatballs. You should end up with approximately 16 to 20 meatballs. Placing them on a piece of parchment paper can help prevent sticking before cooking.
- Step 3: Sear the Meatballs Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Step 4: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the butter to the same pan. Once melted, stir in the remaining minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Step 5: Glaze the Meatballs Add the cooked meatballs back into the skillet. Gently toss them in the garlic butter sauce for 2 minutes, allowing them to soak up the flavor and reheat slightly. Ensure every meatball is well-coated in the glossy sauce.
- Step 6: Assemble the Bowls Divide your base of choice (rice, quinoa, or greens) into four bowls. Top each with a generous serving of meatballs and drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the pan over the top. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Diet: High-Protein, Low-Carb Option