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Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
2. Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Cook the Meatballs
You can cook the meatballs in two ways:
a. Pan-Fried (Crispier):
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them every few minutes to brown all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. Ensure they are fully cooked with an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
b. Baked (Healthier):
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place the meatballs on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
4. Prepare the Garlic Tomato Sauce (Optional)
While the meatballs cook, prepare the sauce if desired:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine and Serve
If using the sauce, add the cooked meatballs to the saucepan and toss gently to coat them in the tomato mixture. Let them simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Pair them with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
- Moisture Matters: Ground chicken is lean, so don’t skip the egg and Parmesan—they help keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to avoid dense, rubbery meatballs.
- Make It Ahead: The uncooked meatballs can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add a bit of shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Why These Meatballs Stand Out
The combination of Parmesan and garlic creates a rich, savory base for these chicken meatballs. Whether served in a simple tomato sauce, as part of a hearty pasta dish, or as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, Boulettes de Poulet au Parmesan et Ail bring comfort and flavor to the table.
Pairing Suggestions
- Wine: A light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully.
- Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables, a Caesar salad, or buttery mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
Enjoy the irresistible aroma and taste of this French-inspired dish. Bon appétit!
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