Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
- Recipe Introduction
- Why Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep Is Your New Best Friend
- Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs: A Flavor Explosion
- What’s the Deal with Meatballs With Zucchini Noodles?
- Why We Love This Recipe
- Ingredients & Equipment
- Cooking Method: Baking Our Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs
- Recipe Notes: Making Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Work For You
- Frequently Asked Questions
Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs With Zucchini No
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever get that craving for something comforting but also, you know, not a total carb bomb? This Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is where it's at.
Honestly, who can resist garlic and butter?
Brief Overview
This recipe puts a healthy spin on classic comfort food. Imagine juicy garlic butter chicken meatballs dancing with zucchini noodles! It's easy enough for a weeknight, taking about an hour.
This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect for lunch or dinner prep.
Main Benefits
The best part? You are getting loads of lean protein. Hello, healthy and delicious! These butter chicken meatballs are awesome for meal prepping.
This recipe is special because it's got the rich taste you crave without the guilt.
Why Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep Is Your New Best Friend
Meal prepping doesn't have to be boring. Think about this: Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep is easy. You are packing flavors that kick ass. And it's seriously good for you.
Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs: A Flavor Explosion
These aren't your average meatballs, mind you. Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs are packed with flavor and goodness. And they are ready to brighten up your lunchbox. Think of it: Italian American flavors.
What’s the Deal with Meatballs With Zucchini Noodles?
Honestly, Meatballs With Zucchini Noodles ? Game changer. You swap regular pasta for zoodles. And you instantly feel a bit better. No heavy feeling after this meal, mate.
Why We Love This Recipe
Okay, so why do I love this recipe? For starters, it's dead easy to make. I messed up once and added too much breadcrumbs, and they turned out a bit dense.
Lesson learned: stick to the recipe! Also, the flavor is spot on. It's that garlic and butter combo that just gets me every time.
I usually throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of kick. Oh, and if you are feeling fancy, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end really brightens things up.
These Ground Chicken Meatballs can be your best kept secret. They can be keto chicken meatballs , if you are watching your macros.
Healthy meal prep chicken , yes you are welcome.
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk about what you actually need to make this amazing Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken recipe happen. Don't worry, it's not complicated! I promise.
I've been there, staring blankly at a recipe thinking, "Where do I even START?" So, I'm breaking it all down for you, nice and easy.
We're making Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs today, folks, not quantum physics.
Main Ingredients for Flavourful Chicken Meatballs
First up, the stars of the show! Remember that quality matters! Get the ingredients needed to make these delightful Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep.
- Ground Chicken: You'll need 1 lb (454g) of ground chicken. Go for lean if you're watching your waistline.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) of panko breadcrumbs give a lovely light texture.
- Milk: 1/4 cup (60ml) of any milk you fancy.
- Egg: Just one large egg to bind it all together.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (25g) of grated Parmesan adds a yummy cheesiness.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best, honestly.
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for that fresh, vibrant flavour.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon . A shortcut to deliciousness!
- Salt & Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Season to your liking!
Pro Tip : For the ground chicken, look for a bright pink color and avoid anything that looks or smells off. It's all about food safety, innit?.
Seasoning Notes for a Garlic Butter Explosion
Here's where the magic happens! The Butter Chicken Meatballs flavour really gets ramped up!
- Garlic: Don't be shy! This is Garlic Butter Chicken , after all.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a lovely zing and cuts through the richness of the butter.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but if you like a bit of heat, go for it!. I add at least 1/4 teaspoon.
- Aromatics: Fresh parsley is key!. You can even add a bay leaf while the sauce simmers for extra depth.
Can't find Italian seasoning? No worries!. Just mix together some dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Easy peasy!
Equipment Needed - Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gadgets for this Low carb chicken meal prep recipe.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For mixing the meatball ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: To bake the Ground Chicken Meatballs .
- Large Skillet: For the garlic butter sauce.
- Spiralizer or Vegetable Peeler: For the zucchini noodles. Making Meatballs With Zucchini Noodles is easier than you think!
No spiralizer? No problem! A vegetable peeler works just fine for making zucchini ribbons. I've been there!.
Honestly, that's all you need! This Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken recipe is all about simplicity and deliciousness, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
And those looking for Healthy meal prep chicken ideas?. Let's get cooking!
Cooking Method: Baking Our Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs
Right, let's talk about baking. Honestly, it's one of the easiest and most hands off methods for cooking these Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs .
Especially if you're aiming for that healthy meal prep chicken vibe. Plus, less mess than frying, right? Baking works best for the Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs , It gives them this lovely all-over even cooking.
It's a godsend! Did you know, baking has been around since the ancient Egyptians?!
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
Essential mise en place : Get all your ingredients measured out. Dice your garlic, parsley, and get that ground chicken ready. Trust me, it saves a ton of time.
Time saving organization tips : Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Easy cleanup is the name of the game.
Safety reminders : Wash your hands. Ground chicken is like a magnet for bacteria. Nobody wants a dodgy tummy.
Step-by-Step Process: Baking Bliss
- Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
- Roll your meatball mixture into 1 inch balls. You know, the size of a ping pong ball but slightly less bouncy.
- Place the Ground Chicken Meatballs on the parchment lined baking sheet. Give them a little space.
- Bake for 20- 25 minutes , or until they're golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
- While baking, you can start your Garlic Butter Chicken Zucchini . Spiralize the zucchini or cut it into smaller pieces.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Meatball Game
- Expert technique : For extra flavor, lightly brown the meatballs in a pan before baking.
- Common mistake to avoid : Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Otherwise, you'll end up steaming the Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep instead of baking them.
- Make ahead option : You can bake the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat before adding the garlic butter sauce. Making this an easy Low carb chicken meal prep option.
So, there you have it. Baking these Butter Chicken Meatballs is easier than doing the washing up, It’s straightforward and consistent, making the process of meal prepping so much easier.
Now you can enjoy Meatballs With Zucchini Noodles anytime!
Recipe Notes: Making Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken Work For You
So, you're thinking of making these Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs ? Awesome! Here's a few insider tips to make them absolutely bangin' .
Seriously, these are almost too good to be a meal prep dish, you know? These might even become your new favorite meal prep chicken recipes dish.
They are much healthier than most restaurant dishes.
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Meal
Listen, presentation is key. These Butter Chicken Meatballs deserve a good showing. I like to twirl the Meatballs With Zucchini Noodles in a bowl.
Then, I'll artfully arrange the meatballs on top. Sprinkle with extra parsley. Boom! Restaurant worthy.
For sides, honestly, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders. Want something more filling? Roasted veggies are your friend.
Broccoli or bell peppers, always a winner. And if you're feeling really fancy, some crusty bread for sopping up that dreamy sauce? Chef's kiss.
You can experiment, for example with Garlic butter chicken zucchini.
Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh
Alright, crucial bit: let the meatballs cool completely before you stash them away. Pop them into airtight containers and they'll happily live in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing? Absolutely. Just put them in a freezer safe bag or container. They'll be good for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave is easiest, but pan-frying them gives you that lovely crispy exterior again.
Variations: Spice It Up!
Want to mess around with the recipe? Go wild! For a low carb chicken meal prep version, try using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Boom! Keto chicken meatballs at your service. You can also use Ground Chicken Meatballs , or replace half of the ground chicken with ground Italian sausage for a richer flavor.
Don't be afraid to experiment! If you are vegan, you could easily try with vegan mince.
Feeling spicy? A pinch of cayenne to the meatball mix will wake you right up.
Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body Right
Each serving is roughly 350 calories, packing in a whopping 35g of protein, around 20g of fat, and only 10g of carbs.
Not bad, eh? These Healthy meal prep chicken meatballs are not only delicious, but they're good for you too. It's a great way to get your protein in.
Protein helps you recover after working out and keeps you full! It also helps keep muscle mass on, so you can still look great even while losing weight.
It is also a dish that gives you good nutrients.
Look, these Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep are super versatile and easy to make your own. Have fun with it, and enjoy! You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really meal prep this Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for meal prepping. Once cooked, let the meatballs and zucchini noodles cool completely before storing them separately in airtight containers. They'll happily keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, ready for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner.
Think of it as your secret weapon against those dodgy supermarket meal deals!
Help! My zucchini noodles are always soggy. What am I doing wrong?
Ah, the dreaded soggy zoodles! The key is to not overcook them. Sauté them in a hot pan for just 3-5 minutes, until they're tender crisp. You can also sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for a bit before cooking, then pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
No one wants a watery pasta alternative, do they?
I'm watching my carbs. Are there any substitutions I can make to this Meal Prep Garlic Butter Chicken recipe?
You bet! For a lower carb version, swap out the panko breadcrumbs in the meatballs for almond flour. You can also sub spaghetti squash instead of the zucchini. For a completely dairy free meal, use olive oil instead of butter.
Can I freeze this Garlic Butter Chicken for even longer meal prep storage?
You certainly can! The meatballs freeze incredibly well. Cook and cool them completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2-3 months.
It's best to freeze the meatballs separately from the zucchini noodles, as the noodles tend to get a bit watery after thawing. Just whip up a fresh batch when you're ready to eat!
Is there a way to make the Garlic Butter Chicken meatballs more flavorful?
Absolutely! Don't be shy with the garlic and Italian seasoning in the meatball mixture. Also, browning the meatballs slightly in a pan before adding them to the sauce will add a deeper, richer flavor.
Some people like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick, channeling their inner Gordon Ramsay!
How can I get ahead when making this meal?
You can prep most of the ingredients a day or two in advance. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and spiralize the zucchini. Store everything separately in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
You can even mix the meatball mixture ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge this will help the flavors meld together even more!
