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- 1 lb ground chicken - ¼ cup breadcrumbs - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 egg The base of these meatballs is ground chicken. It keeps the dish light yet filling. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. They also add texture. Parmesan cheese gives a nice salty flavor. The egg helps hold everything together. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley - Salt and pepper to taste Garlic adds a strong flavor to the meatballs. Oregano and basil bring warmth and earthiness. Fresh parsley brightens the dish. Salt and pepper enhance all the tastes. Each herb or spice plays a key role in making these meatballs flavorful. - 2 cups baby spinach - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 avocado, sliced Baby spinach is a great base for the bowl. It adds color and nutrients. Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness. When halved, they mix well with the spinach. Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. Each ingredient adds freshness to the meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. 2. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the meatballs from sticking. 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and egg. 4. Add minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. 5. Mix everything until well combined. You want a nice, even texture. 6. Now, use your hands to form small meatballs, about 1 inch wide. 7. Place the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. 1. Drizzle a little olive oil over the meatballs. This adds flavor and helps them brown. 2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. 3. Keep an eye on them. They should be golden brown and cooked through. 4. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 165°F (75°C). 1. While the meatballs bake, prepare your vegetable base. 2. In a large bowl, toss together baby spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. 3. To serve, place a scoop of the spinach and tomato mix in each bowl. 4. Top with several baked chicken meatballs. 5. Add sliced avocado and a dollop of Greek yogurt. 6. Finally, drizzle fresh lemon juice over your bowl for a zesty kick. Enjoy your meal! To make great meatballs, keep them moist and tasty. Use fresh ground chicken for the best flavor. Also, try adding a splash of milk or an extra egg to boost moisture. This keeps the meatballs tender and juicy. If you want a different texture, use alternative binding agents. Instead of breadcrumbs, try oats or crushed crackers. These options add unique flavors and can make your meatballs stand out. Pair your herbed chicken meatballs with grains or sauces. Rice, quinoa, or couscous make excellent bases. They soak up flavors and add heartiness to your meal. For a creamy touch, drizzle with a light sauce, like a yogurt dressing or tahini. Presentation matters, too! Start with a bed of greens, then add the meatballs. Top with vibrant veggies and a dollop of Greek yogurt. A sprinkle of herbs or a wedge of lemon on the side brightens the look. Using fresh herbs adds a bright taste. You can swap dried herbs for fresh ones at a 3:1 ratio. For example, use 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs instead of 1 teaspoon of dried. Explore other herb options for customization. Try thyme, rosemary, or even cilantro for a twist. Each herb brings its own flavor, making your meatballs unique. Experiment and find combinations you love! Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of your meatballs. If possible, substitute dried herbs with fresh ones for a more vibrant taste. Keep Meatballs Moist: Adding a bit of milk to the meat mixture can help keep the meatballs moist and tender while baking. Customize Your Bowl: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to your bowls for added crunch and nutrition. Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just bake them when you're ready to serve! {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this dish to suit your taste. - Ground turkey: This option is lean and full of flavor. It cooks similarly to chicken and keeps the dish light. You can use the same amount as chicken. - Plant-based substitutes: If you want a veggie option, try using ground chickpeas or lentils. They add a nice texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust seasonings to keep it tasty. The base of your bowl can change the meal entirely. - Quinoa or brown rice: Both grains add a chewy texture and nutty flavor. They also boost the nutrition in your meal. Cook them according to package instructions before adding. - Leafy greens or other veggies: You can use kale, arugula, or mixed greens for a fresh feel. Roasted veggies also work well, adding depth and flavor to the bowl. You can easily switch up the flavor of your meatball bowls. - Spicy additions: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your meatball mix. This adds a fun kick that wakes up the dish. - Different cheese options: Instead of Parmesan, try feta or mozzarella. Feta adds a salty tang, while mozzarella brings a creamy texture. Both options lend a unique twist to your meal. To store leftover meatballs, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for the next meal. You can store the meatballs in the fridge for up to three days. For best quality, eat them within this time. Keep the fresh ingredients separate. Store spinach, tomatoes, and avocado in their own bags. This helps them stay crisp and tasty. To freeze meatballs, arrange them on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching. Freeze them for about two hours until solid. Then, transfer the meatballs to a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you want to eat them, thaw the meatballs in the fridge overnight. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave. Just make sure they are heated through before serving. In the fridge, meatballs can last about three days. After that, they may spoil. Signs of spoilage include off smells and a slimy texture. If you see either of these signs, do not eat them. Always trust your senses to keep meals safe. Yes, you can prepare meatballs in advance. Make the meatball mixture and shape them. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. You can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to cook, bake them straight from the fridge. They may need a few extra minutes in the oven. If you do not have breadcrumbs, try using crushed crackers or oats. You can also use ground nuts for a gluten-free option. Another good choice is cooked rice or quinoa. These options will help bind the meatballs and keep them moist. To check if your meatballs are done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can also look for a golden brown color on the outside. When you cut one open, it should be no longer pink inside. These checks ensure your meatballs are safe and tasty. In this blog, we explored delicious meatball bowls. We covered key ingredients like ground chicken, herbs, and fresh veggies. I shared easy steps to make and bake your meatballs. You learned tips for perfecting your dish and creative variations. Don't forget the importance of proper storage for leftovers. Meatballs are versatile and fun to make. You can change flavors and ingredients to fit your taste. Enjoy creating your personalized bowl and impressing everyone with your cooking skills!

Herbed Chicken Meatball Bowls

A delicious and healthy bowl featuring herbed chicken meatballs served with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 0.25 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 unit egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
  • to taste unit Salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 unit avocado, sliced
  • 0.25 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 unit Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
  • Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs for added flavor and moisture, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
  • While the meatballs are baking, prepare the fresh vegetables. In a large bowl, toss the baby spinach and halved cherry tomatoes together.
  • To serve, place a scoop of the spinach and tomato mixture in bowls. Top with several baked chicken meatballs, sliced avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
  • Drizzle lemon juice over the bowls for a zesty finish and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference.
Keyword bowl meal, Chicken, healthy, meatballs